2027 Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern - Southern California

Kennedy Jenks; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage option

Cell phone stipend

401(k) plan

Paid sick time

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

Kennedy Jenks is offering a 2027 Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern position in Irvine, CA. This Kickstart Internship provides hands-on experience supporting projects in water resources, quality, wastewater, and treatment with opportunities to visit sites and interact with clients.

The role emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and networking, with a hybrid work model (two days per week in the office). Pay is projected at $21 to $26 per hour, based on education and experience.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Civil, Environmental, Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Completion of a minimum of junior (third-year) standing in an accredited engineering program.

Responsibilities

• Work on a variety of water resources, water quality, wastewater, and water treatment projects.
• Assist with calculations, design plans, and specifications under mentorship.
• Attend client meetings and contribute to project discussions.
• Visit project sites and support field activities.
• Receive mentorship and guidance from experienced engineers.
• Collaborate with team members and clients to deliver solutions.

Education

Undergraduate or graduate engineering student (Civil/Environmental/Chemical)

Job description

2027 Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern - Southern California

Irvine, CA, USA

Job Description

Posted Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Founded in 1919, KJ has always looked to the future. With a talented team of professionals and a culture of continuous improvement, we deliver exceptional engineering, environmental consulting, and construction management services, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Using advanced analytics, technology, and tools, KJ improves designs, reduces risk, and finds better ways to deliver projects from planning through construction. KJ is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions for clients, including green infrastructure design, strategies to reduce energy use and environmental impacts, award-winning water reuse projects, and efficient construction management practices that ensure quality, safety, and on-time delivery. We are known for our dedication to industry-leading client service and tailored solutions.

We are looking for ambitious achievers to join our 2027 Kickstart Internship Program in Irvine, CA!

Your work will support project teamsprovidingsolutions for water resources, water quality, wastewater and water treatment, and recycled water planning and implementation issues that our water environment, transportation, and industrial sector clients are facing. You will have opportunities to get involved in significant projects throughout the United States. These projects m ay involve field work, technical report preparation and calculations, pre-construction conditions documentation, design plans and specifications.

What we can offer you

• Meaningful Projects and Work
• Professional Development
• Networking and Collaboration

A Day in the Life of an Intern:

• Working on a variety of projects which allow you to apply skills and calculations that you have learned in school
• Managing ongoing projects and communicating with other team members and clients
• Attending and contributing to client meetings
• Visiting project sites
• Receiving mentorship and advising
• Networking with employees and clients

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in:
  • Civil Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Related Engineering field
• Completion of a minimum of junior (third-year) standing in an accredited engineering program

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid model of home and office work, with a minimum of two days per week in the office. This approach empowers our people to thrive, collaborate, and achieve their full potential.

Pay rate for this position is anticipated to be $21 to $26 per hour, and may vary based upon education, experience, qualifications, skills, licensure/certifications, seniority, geographic location, and performance.

Intern Benefits Summary: As a Kickstart intern, you’ll enjoy the benefits package designed to support you during your experience. Choose between quality medical coverage or a $150 monthly stipend if you have other coverage, plus receive $15 per month toward your cell phone costs. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in our 401(k) plan and accrue paid sick time throughout the program, ensuring that your well-being and future are always a priority.

#LI-hybrid

Kennedy Jenks is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.