Intern - Unpaid

DEFINITION & CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Under direct supervision, is trained in tasks relevant to internship rotations.  Assignments and requirements vary by needs of the department and internship parameters, with the goal of teaching the intern about the water/wastewater industry.   The intern is responsible for executing and completing learning objectives, as defined by the intern’s cooperative education class, CE100.  Essential functions, qualifications, and other information will be detailed in the posted job announcement when a recruitment is opened.  This internship is for the Fall 2026 semester, which generally runs from August - December.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

The position will report to the Public Information/Conservation Supervisor, and take direction from the supervisor of the assigned department.

Interns will rotate through multiple departments within the District for staff interviews, job shadows, and on-the-job training.  The intent is to educate interns on the functions and nature of a local government water/wastewater agency.

Specific duties vary by department and internship goals.   All interns are expected to perform duties in a professional manner; use their time and District resources productively to meet their learning objectives; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships; observe safe work practices; follow direction; and adhere to the schedule set for the internship.  

Minimum qualifications for the internship program require students have completed one Water Technology class at Palomar College prior to starting the internship.  In general, interns are expected to be professional and conduct themselves in a manner that positively represents Vallecitos Water District.  Experience in water or wastewater is preferred but not required.

Internships are for a specific semester that runs in tandem with the official Palomar College Academic Calendar, with a typical duration of 16 weeks. Positions are terminated upon semester completion.  Job announcements will reflect the expected internship length.  Interns do not receive wages; insurance benefits; retirement benefits; or vacation or holiday leave.  Semester hour requirements are based on the California Community College’s Chancellors Office and scale with the unit value of the CE100 course. Hours and schedules will be specified in job announcements