Diversity Intern

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 2025/2026 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 MWRDInternships@mwrd.org.

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. They do not receive benefits or paid days off.

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 2025/2026 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 MWRDInternships@mwrd.org.

Position Title:

Diversity Intern

Department:

General Administration

Location:

Main Office Building

111 East Erie Street

Chicago, IL 60611

Description:

The Diversity Section is seeking a motivated and dynamic summer intern to join our team. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to support critical diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives while gaining valuable experience in event planning, contract compliance, certification, and advocacy. The ideal candidate is creative, detail-oriented, and excited to engage with the public and collaborate in a team environment. The Diversity Intern will work under the supervision of the Diversity Administrator.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in planning and preparation for the 2025 Small Business Summit, including event logistics, outreach, and day-of coordination.
• Learn the fundamentals of contract compliance, certification processes, and advocacy and outreach efforts.
• Draft correspondence related to the Small Business Summit including press releases, emails, and other communications.
• Manage communications using platforms such as Eventbrite, Constant Contact, and Canva.
• Contribute to marketing efforts, including creating promotional materials and assisting with social media posts.
• Engage with the public, answering questions, providing guidance, and fostering positive connections.
• Draft and edit documents, presentations, and reports using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Make outreach phone calls to businesses, stakeholders, and community partners as needed.
• Provide general administrative support to the Diversity team.

Qualifications:

• Strong writing and communication skills, with the ability to create clear, compelling, and professional content.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with platforms such as Eventbrite, Constant Contact, and Canva is preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently.
• Comfortable engaging with the public, including making phone calls and responding to inquiries.
• Strong organizational skills, good judgment, and attention to detail.
• Creativity and a friendly, approachable demeanor.

Preferred Skills and Attributes:

• Experience or interest in event planning, marketing, or community engagement.
• A proactive attitude with a willingness to take on challenges and learn new skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively and meet deadlines.

This internship provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion while developing key professional skills.

Diversity interns will gain:

• Event Management Skills: Gain real-world experience in organizing and executing a large-scale event, from conceptual planning to post-event evaluation.
• Contract Compliance Basics: Develop an understanding of how contracts are monitored for inclusivity goals, including affirmative action requirements and apprenticeship standards.
• Certification Process: Learn the steps involved in certifying businesses, including document review and verification processes.
• Outreach & Advocacy Strategies: Understand how to effectively promote resources to businesses, build relationships with stakeholders, and contribute to the advancement of diversity and inclusion goals.
• Professional Communication: Enhance writing and verbal communication skills by drafting a variety of materials, including correspondence, press releases, and promotional content.
• Technical Skills: Build expertise with software tools like Eventbrite, Constant Contact, Canva, and Microsoft Office, widely used in professional settings.
• Public Engagement: Develop confidence in engaging with the public, making presentations, and representing the Diversity team in a professional capacity.
• Team Collaboration: Gain insight into working effectively as part of a team, participating in brainstorming sessions, sharing ideas, and supporting group initiatives.
• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Hone your ability to analyze situations, prioritize tasks, and make informed decisions while managing multiple responsibilities.

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current graduate or undergraduate student seeking a degree.