Engineering Intern

Job Description

Position Summary

The intern will focus on projects involving microplastics in river and drinking water as well as studying the formation of disinfection byproducts. Additionally, the intern will test a new instrument that measures drinking water contaminants much faster than conventional methods. Samples will be collected and processed using established techniques, including jar tests, bench-top instruments, and field sampling. Data science will be an important tool to review historical data and organize new data. An opportunity will be available to create a self-driven research project to study a certain aspect of drinking or river water. The position will be under the guidance of senior scientists.

This is an in-office position.

Essential Functions

Learning Objectives

The intern will develop skills in:

• Chemistry and physics of microplastic analysis.
• Sample collection and processing.
• Microscopy and infrared analysis.
• Documenting lab work and producing reports.
• Participating in field trips to use the online instrument.

This position focusing on the regional distribution of specific microplastic particles in local streams; which involves collecting water samples, preparing them, and identifying microplastics using microscopy and infrared spectroscopy. It offers hands-on experience in environmental water quality research and advanced analytical techniques. The intern will be mentored by two chemists at PWD’s main lab and will have opportunities to develop a research project related to microplastics in streams and drinking water.

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Tasks include sample collection, analysis, and statistical comparison with traditional methods. Part of the work involves collaborating with a chemist to study changes in the fluorescence of water organic matter and its relation to specific drinking water contaminants. This work will take place at the Philadelphia Water Department's (PWD) main lab.

Qualifications

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency with basic software such as Excel and Word.
• Familiarity with programming languages for data analysis (e.g., R, Python).
• Laboratory experience and interest in lab instruments.
• Basic knowledge of statistics
• Enjoys learning new skills and doesn't mind the field trips to the online instrument.
• Relevant majors: Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Ecology, Forensic Science

The internship typically lasts 3–6 months and is open to students at the intermediate or advanced level (sophomore, junior or senior students).