Position DescriptionSeattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an undergraduate or graduate level intern for the Drainage and Wastewater (DWW) Strategic Outreach and Communications group. This group works on programs such as encouraging behavior that prevents sewer overflows, pet waste removal and storm drain stenciling to keep surface waters clean, fall leaf raking to prevent flooding, K-12 youth stormwater and salmon education, and more.

The selected candidate will learn and support the public engagement work of the Strategic Outreach and Communications group. Additionally, the intern will support community-based social marketing work to better understand customers’ attitudes and behaviors while developing engagement programming.

Learning objectives may include, but are not limited to:

• Understanding urban drainage and wastewater systems
• Designing and implementing community-based social marketing campaigns
• Designing effective virtual engagement materials
• Using computer programs such as ArcMap, SurveyMonkey, and data tracking applications
• Update program web pages and create social media posts and video content
• Gain experience with public speaking and community engagement.

There is currently one undergraduate or graduate internship opportunity available. The projected start date is late-June. This internship is for up to 6 months or graduation, whichever comes first.

Wages:

• Undergraduate – $17.84/hour
• Graduate – $21.87/hour

About Seattle Public Utilities:

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility working to make Seattle the best place to live for everyone. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.4 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.

SPU commits to Our City Values and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We support and hold ourselves accountable by eliminating barriers to access and providing employees with equitable opportunities for professional growth and advancement.Job ResponsibilitiesThe successful candidate will work with professionals to:

• Manage, track and update program data
• Develop web and social media content
• Develop outreach-related tools and documents such as maps and brochures
• Provide logistical support for meetings and events
• Implement the City of Seattle’s Race and Social Justice Initiative

This internship includes occasional evening and weekend work.
QualificationsEducation: Applicants must currently be enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate level student, pursuing a degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Education, Environmental Studies, Social Psychology, Public Policy, Communications, or related field.

Student must be enrolled at least part-time or full-time and maintain a 2.5 GPA (undergraduate) or 3.0 GPA (graduate) for the duration of the internship.

Exception: Student will not be required to be enrolled during the summer session, but at the end of Spring quarter must provide documentation of continued Fall enrollment.

Verification of enrollment is required at time of application.

Licensing: A valid Washington State driver’s license is required for this internship in order to operate a City vehicle to travel to events and workshops.

Additional InformationHours: During school sessions, work hours will be scheduled to complement class schedules (15-20 hours per week). The internship opportunity may permit up to 40 hours per week during breaks and the summer months. Work is normally performed between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Some weekend and evening work may be required.

How to Apply:

• Upload your college/university’s unofficial transcript.  An official transcript will be required at time of hire.
• Cover letter indicating your interest in this internship
• Resume clearly identifying how you meet qualifications

Selected applicants invited to interview will be requested to provide at least three (3) references and a writing sample.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.