This is an exciting opportunity to get hands on experience in assisting public water systems across Wisconsin comply with the Federal Rule requirements.
A virtual info session to learn more and ask questions will take place Nov. 15 at 1 p.m. via Zoom: https://wisconsin-edu.zoom.us/j/92885145383
Applications are due Sunday, November 26, 2023.
Background:
Jacobs in partnership with the University of Wisconsin System and Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin is looking for students with an interest in drinking water quality and public health and safety, to improve community access to clean, safe drinking water. This is an opportunity to work with water systems across Wisconsin, providing technical assistance to identify the location and material of service lines and meet the goals of the federal Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. This work will expose you to working with local government entities, public utilities, familiarize you with drinking water regulations, and provide hands-on experience with data collection and field work.
The Work:
Technical assistance to public water systems may include:
- Review of:
- Construction and plumbing codes, permits, and existing records or other documentation which indicates the service line materials used to connect structures to the distribution system.
- Water system records, including distribution system maps and drawings, historical records on each service connection, meter installation records, historical capital improvement or master plans, and standard operating procedures.
- Inspections and records of the distribution system that indicate material composition of the service connections that connect a structure to the distribution system.
- Any other relevant available records.
- Data entry:
- Populate data into a spreadsheet in advance of and/or following an onsite records review visit.
- Field Visits (Optional):
- Travel across the state with other team members to provide in-person review of records and field verification of service lines.
- Talk directly with government entities and public utility staff about their water system.
Time commitment:
A minimum of 8 hours a week is desired, up to 25 hours per week during school, and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks (e.g., summer 2024). Data entry work offers more flexibility around working hours and can be performed remotely. Site visits may require longer workdays (greater than 8 hours), and potentially overnight stays.
Length of program:
Work is set to begin in November 2023 and continue through August 2024.
Desired qualifications and skills:
- University of Wisconsin students and staff
- Pursuing or obtained a degree in Freshwater Science, Engineering, Geology, Microbiology, Environmental Science or similar degree program
- Strong interest in real-world, hands-on utility and water sector work
- Ability to focus on detail-oriented tasks
- Excellent communication skills
- Proficiency in MS Office applications
- Personal vehicle and valid driver’s license and car insurance required for field visits
Expected compensation:
The pay range is $20 to 30 per hour, depending on skills and prior experience. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Additional information and Applications Deadline:
Join us for an informational webinar on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 1 p.m. to learn more about this project and have an opportunity to ask questions of Jacobs and the Project Team.
Applications are due Sunday, November 26, 2023, and can be submitted to Greg Kleinhenz, Chair, University of Wisconsin – Department of Engineering & Engineering Technology at kleinhei@uwosh.edu.
Applications should include:
- Resume
- 1-page cover letter detailing your past work, research, or course-work experience and professional goals
- 1 professional reference’s contact information