Policy Intern

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is offering a paid Policy Intern position in Chicago. The intern will support the Board of Commissioners office on policy, research, and communications projects.

Ideal candidates are organized, able to manage multiple projects, and have strong written and verbal communication skills. Enrollment in Environmental Studies, Public Policy, or Communications is required, with US work eligibility.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program and will be enrolled in 2026/2027.
• Citizen or fully authorized to work in the United States.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with research, data analysis, reporting, and communications.

Responsibilities

• Complete at least one substantive project in policy, research, or communications.
• Assist with water resource policy initiatives and external engagement.
• Support research, data analysis, and reporting tasks.

Skills

Project management

Communication

PowerPoint

Excel

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Environmental Studies / Public Policy / Communications degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Policy Intern

Recruitment # 26-20001026-014

Date Opened: 8/25/2026 12:00:00 AM

Close Date: Open Continuous

Job Type: Internships

Salary: Hourly Pay Rate: $18.00

Location: Main Office

Additional Forms: Cover Letter, Letter of Recommendation, Resume

Introduction

MWRD's Internship Program offers paid internship positions. While the main focus is on wastewater management, there are opportunities to gain knowledge and practical experience in a wide range of functions in each department.

Paid Interns

Paid interns are limited to 119 working days per calendar year and receive $18.00 per hour.

Required Documents:

• Letter of recommendation from a class instructor, professor, or Internship Coordinator from current school or university.
• Cover letter stating interest in position.
• Resume.

Eligibility Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in an accredited college or university and will be enrolled in the 2026/2027 school year.
• Permanent residency within the territorial boundaries of the MWRD (students may attend school outside the territorial boundaries).
• You must be a citizen or national of the United States, or an individual who is otherwise legally authorized to work in the United States.

Candidates are required to submit the Online Internship Application, cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation through MWRD's Online Employment Center.

Questions regarding the internship program may be directed to [e-mail].

Position Title: Policy Intern

Department: Board of Commissioner

Location: Main Office Building, 100 E. Erie St., Chicago, IL. 60611

Description: The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is seeking an intern to support the Board of Commissioners office. The intern will complete at least one substantive project in the areas of policy, research, or communications. We are looking for a highly organized individual to assist with water resource policy initiatives and related external engagement efforts and partnerships. The ideal candidate will have experience in research, data analysis, reporting, and communications.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously to meet objective/key deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft office products, especially PowerPoint and Excel.
• Well-Organized and flexible; able to move from project to project without delay.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
• A passion to gain government experience and learning.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual in Spanish
• Driver's License

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current graduate or undergraduate student seeking a degree in Environmental Studies, Public Policy, or Communications.