Are you a high school student, at least 16 years old, and curious about environmental topics and careers? Do you want to spend part of the summer earning money while learning and challenging yourself? Then read on to learn more about this internship opportunity!

About the Role:

The Wastewater Treatment Division's (WTD) Education and Engagement team is partnering with the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust to provide a high school summer internship program.  We are seeking 12 interns interested in learning how government agencies, nonprofit organizations and local communities influence the health of the waterways in the Puget Sound region. Interns will gain a deep understanding of the role we all play in this issue, and the careers that contribute to improving water quality and protecting the environment. Interns will learn about environmental and social justice issues by participating in field trips and workshops. A large component of the internship involves practicing leadership and communication skills by teaching peers and community members about water issues and solutions. The goal is for interns to become water ambassadors for their school and community.

We are looking for high school youth who are at least 16 years old by July 7 and interested in learning about local water issues and solutions. No previous experience in environmental topics is required.  We welcome teens of all identities to apply; and the lived experiences, perspectives, and expertise of Black, Indigenous, and youth of color are especially essential to the success of this work.  People identifying as LGBTQ+ and people living with disabilities are also encouraged to apply.  We strongly encourage applicants who are new to exploring environmental topics, from diverse backgrounds, and feel comfortable communicating in English.

This is a five-week program that runs Monday-Friday, July 7 - August 7, 2025.   Interns will work approximately 27 hours per week.  

What You Will Be Doing:

• Learn about clean water issues and actions we can take to protect water quality by taking field trips to local water utilities, lakes, and streams.
• Hone leadership and communication skills by teaching peers and community members about water issues and solutions. 
• Hear about environmental career path options through career panels and by interviewing professionals.
• Synthesize the experience by giving a professional presentation to staff and community members.

To learn more, you can read the Frequently Asked Questions here: FAQ

SKILL DEVELOPMENT:

• Exposure to skills related to: water quality, communications, community involvement, education, and ecological restoration.
• Public speaking, teaching and professional written communications
• Working in both office and field environments
• Independent professional work and time management
• Working with diverse peers in small groups

Qualifications You Bring:

• Must be a high school-aged youth who is at least 16 years old when program begins on July 7
• Have current and valid identification, and proof of eligibility for employment in the U.S.
• Interest in improving communication skills and working with the community
• Interest in environmental or public health careers
• We strongly encourage applicants who are new to exploring environmental topics and from diverse backgrounds

Working Conditions: 

• Work location: Interns in this role work onsite. Interns will start and end their days in downtown Seattle. Interns will be able to use free public transportation (available for youth under 19 years old) to and from downtown each day. On Mondays, interns will work at King Street Center (201 S. Jackson St, in Pioneer Square) in the office. Tuesdays-Fridays, interns will meet at the Stadium Light Rail Station and will be driven as a group to various locations within King County. 
• Requirement: Employees must reside in Washington State and be within a reasonable distance to King County worksites to meet onsite reporting requirements.
• Work Schedule: This position is part-time from Monday, July 7 through Thursday, August 7. The schedule will generally be Monday - Thursday 9am-3pm, Friday 9am-1pm. Times may differ on some days due to scheduling of field experiences, but interns will be informed of schedule changes in advance. This position is covered under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is overtime eligible.
• Duration: This recruitment aims to fill a 12 High School level student for a five-week program that runs Monday-Friday, July 7 - August 7, 2025
  During the 2025-26 school year, interns will have the option to implement independent projects in their community. Interns who choose this option, can be paid up to 40 hours total over the course of the school year from September 2025 - June 2026.

• Complete Application 
• Responses to the supplemental questions

Note: A Cover Letter and Resume are not required. Additional documents won't be considered during minimum qualification screening.

Tentative Selection Schedule:

• All applicants can expect to hear if they were selected for an interview by May 8, 2025. 
• Interviews will be online between May 12-28, 2025.
• Final decisions will be shared on May 30, 2025. 

Who to Contact: For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact Kristin Covey 206-263-8856 or kristin.covey@kingcounty.gov or Mark Workinger at mworkinger@kingcounty.gov