Public Policy Intern

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 20,457 - 29,136; Part time

Job summary

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District's Board of Commissioners Office in Chicago is seeking a Public Policy Intern for a hands-on internship focused on policy research, stakeholder engagement, and event planning.

You will collaborate with staff to develop content, coordinate projects, and support daily operations while applying strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Proficient with computers and MS Word/Excel.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in communications, environmental science and/or policy; political science, public administration, public policy; or related majors.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with stakeholders on policy-related projects.
• Assist with event planning and coordination.
• Conduct policy research and develop content.
• Support daily operations of the Commissioner's Office.
• Engage constituents through meetings and events.

Skills

Proficient using computers

Excellent written and oral comms

Education

Degree-seeking in communications/policy related fields

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

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.

Position Title

Public Policy Intern

Department

Board of Commissioners Office

Location

Main Office Building

100 East Erie Street

Chicago, IL 60611

Description

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is seeking an intern for the Board of Commissioners Office. The internship will involve collaborating with stakeholders, assisting with event planning, conducting policy research, developing content, coordinating projects, and supporting the daily operations of a Commissioner's Office. Interns will have the opportunity to apply their communication skills and creativity to advance policy initiatives. They will work alongside a team to engage constituents through various channels, including communications, meetings, and events.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

• Proficient utilizing computers
• Proficient using Microsoft Word and Excel
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Educational Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a degree seeking program majoring in communications, environmental science and/or policy; political science, public administration, public policy; or other related majors.