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Job Description
CAREER DESCRIPTION
Civil/Environmental Engineer (Landfill Support) Undergraduate Intern
OC Waste & Recycling
This recruitment is open to the public and will remain open for a minimum of five (5) business days and is scheduled to close at 11:59 PM (PST) on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.
OC WASTE & RECYCLING
OC Waste & Recycling owns and operates the Orange County landfill system. The engineering group is tasked with maintaining compliance with the standards set forth by the various regulatory agencies such as the Air Quality Management District, the Regional Water Quality Control Board, Cal Recycle, Health Care Agency and the Local Enforcement Agency.
THE OPPORTUNITY
This internship is an in-person internship and is assigned to the South Region Landfill located in San Juan Capistrano.
The engineering group at South Region Landfill in San Juan Capistrano provides engineering support services to the ongoing landfill operations, including drainage and erosion control; site grading designs; landfill gas collection system maintenance/expansion/monitoring; renewable energy program management assistance; construction support service; groundwater/gas/compost sampling/monitoring; and various regulatory compliance monitoring, reporting, and remediation tasks.
Interns will learn about the general operations of a landfill, focusing on the civil and environmental engineering aspects under the direct guidance of Engineering Technicians and Civil Engineering Associates. While working with the Engineering Technicians, interns will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience sampling liquids such as stormwater and groundwater, sampling compost, using gas monitoring equipment, and operating surveying equipment including drones. From the Civil Engineering Associates, interns have the potential to develop design skills in AutoCAD Civil 3D, learn about compliance policies and their associated governing agencies, and understand landfill engineering infrastructure, such as the Landfill Gas Control and Collection System, that help reduce environmental impacts and protect public safety. Additionally, interns will work with licensed Civil Engineers and will be supervised by a licensed Senior Civil Engineer which increases career prospects by gaining knowledge and expertise from professionals in the engineering field. Interns will also have the chance to interact and learn from OCWR’s Operations team, Project Management team, and various consultants and contractors.
INTERN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Intern duties/responsibilities include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following projects:- Perform records search
- Organize, develop and archive various files such as documents, reports and drawings that are stored as digital and/or hardcopies
- Perform data entry and/or analysis
- Provide staff support with groundwater, stormwater, and/or landfill gas sampling and monitoring
- Assist with field survey duties and compliance report preparation
- Ability to assist with basic AutoCAD Civil 3D line work and calculations
- Compost sampling and monitoring
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must currently be enrolled in an associate/bachelor's degree program in an accredited college/university majoring in civil, environmental, or solid waste engineering and have completed at least two years of academic course work.
Basic understanding of math and science is required.
Students who have graduated within the last 6 months and obtained a bachelor's degree in one of the fields of study above are eligible to apply.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS- Ability to calculate area, volume and density
- Basic understanding of math and science in fields related to trigonometry, geometry, physics, chemistry, etc.
- Proficient in verbal communication/presentation and English writing skills
- Strong organization, problem solving and analytical skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite 2016 and above
- Basic knowledge of AutoCAD and CIVIL3D
- Experience in databases and graphics programs such as ArcGis
- Ability to work on team projects and handle several assignments simultaneously
- Physical agility for field assignments
Immediate placement is available. Work hours are flexible, with a preference for interns who can commit to 20-29 hours per week, Monday through Friday for a minimum of 6 months with an opportunity to extend up to 12 months.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This internship includes outdoor work in an active landfill setting. Appropriate clothing for a field environment will be required. Interns will be provided appropriate PPE.
BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO THE INTERN- Earn academic credit while applying classroom knowledge to a professional workplace
- Build resumes/hands-on experience and explore a career in local government
- Network with professionals in their fields of interest
Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts to their application. The cover letter is an opportunity for students to describe career and academic goals, to elaborate upon personal and academic accomplishments, and to identify what type of internship experience they are seeking. Learn more about what to include in a cover letter HERE .
Applications that do not include a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts will not be considered.
REQUIRED BACKGROUND SCREENING/REFERENCE CHECK
Prior to placement, applicants may be asked to submit contact information for reference checks, and a background screening will be conducted that requires a state issued driver's license or ID card and a U.S. Social Security number.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
EMAIL NOTIFICATION
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.
NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.
Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com .
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
For additional internship postings, please check our Web site at the following link: https://hrs.ocgov.com/careers/volunteer-intern/internships/internship-opportunities
Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact (714) 834-2555 or CountyofOrangeInterns@ocgov.com
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer,
encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
This position does not offer any benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter for this position. The recruiter should be listed on the Job Posting.
Closing Date/Time: 12/14/2025 11:59 PM Pacific -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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County of Orange
Show moreDiscover a Fulfilling Career at the County of Orange
With a population of over 3 million residents and 34 cities, Orange County is a thriving community known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and strong economy. As the third-largest employer in the county, the County of Orange offers over 18,000 employees the opportunity to make a difference in their community and build a fulfilling career in public service.
As a County of Orange employee, you will have the chance to work in a variety of departments, each providing vital services to our community. From law enforcement and healthcare to public works and environmental protection, there is a wide range of career paths to explore. And with opportunities for advancement and professional growth, you can build a long and rewarding career with us.
As a top employer in the region, the County of Orange is committed to providing our employees with excellent benefits, including a competitive salary, flexible work schedules, and outstanding healthcare coverage. We also offer opportunities for career development and training, ensuring that our employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a new challenge, the County of Orange is a great place to work. With a supportive and collaborative work environment, a commitment to excellence, and opportunities for growth and advancement, we invite you to join our team and make a difference in your community.
Community Impact:
Working for the County of Orange means you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're providing critical services to residents, protecting the environment, or maintaining public safety, your work will make a difference in the lives of those around you.
Employee Wellness:
At the County of Orange, we prioritize our employees' well-being. We offer telecommuting options, generous health benefits, and wellness programs to promote work-life balance. We believe that by taking care of our employee’s health and well-being, we can help them excel in their careers while still enjoying their personal lives and taking care of their families.
Innovation:
The County of Orange is committed to embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to service delivery. We encourage our employees to think creatively and find ways to improve our processes and systems. If you're someone who loves to problem-solve and think outside the box, you'll find a supportive and dynamic environment here.
Collaboration:
Collaboration is key to our success at the County of Orange. We value teamwork, communication, and mutual support, and we work together across departments and functions to achieve our goals. If you're someone who enjoys collaborating with others and building strong relationships, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive community here.
Equality:
At the County of Orange, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. Our Equity Policy reflects this commitment and guides our efforts to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do.
Career Advancement:
The County of Orange is dedicated to helping our employees grow and advance in their careers. We offer a variety of training and development opportunities to help our employees reach their full potential. If you're looking for a place to build a long and fulfilling career, the County of Orange is an excellent choice.
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