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Public Works Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Novoco

Public Policy Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$23/hr

Position Summary The Public Policy Intern position is responsible for performing research and ... works extensively in the affordable housing, community development, historic preservation and ...

Grammy

Intern, Advocacy & Public Policy

Washington, DC

$17 - $22.75/hr

TheAdvocacy & Public PolicyIntern position pays county/state minimum wage rates, based on work ... Through the generosity of our donors and volunteer professionals, our dedicated team works across ...

Theirc

Walk-in Services Intern (Fall 2026)

Silver Spring, MD

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

The team works directly with humanitarian immigrants of varying statuses resettling in the DC Metro ... Intern will acquire knowledge of internal programs and public benefits available to humanitarian ...

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How much do public works intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works intern in Washington is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public works intern do?

A Public Works Intern assists with various projects and tasks that support the operations of a city or municipality’s public works department. Their duties may include conducting field inspections, collecting and analyzing data, helping to manage infrastructure projects, and providing administrative support. Interns gain hands-on experience in areas such as civil engineering, urban planning, and environmental management, working alongside experienced professionals. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in public service and municipal operations.

What types of projects and tasks can a public works intern expect to be involved with during their internship?

As a Public Works Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of projects that support the maintenance and development of public infrastructure, such as roads, parks, water systems, and public buildings. Typical tasks include conducting site inspections, helping with data collection and analysis, preparing reports, and assisting with project planning or community outreach. You'll often collaborate with engineers, project managers, and field crews, gaining hands-on experience and insight into the operations of a municipal public works department. This role provides a valuable opportunity to develop technical and teamwork skills while learning about local government processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Intern, you generally need a background in civil engineering or a related field, strong analytical skills, and an understanding of public infrastructure concepts. Familiarity with drafting software like AutoCAD, GIS systems, and Microsoft Office Suite is typically required, along with any relevant coursework or certifications. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in collaborative projects and community interactions. These skills enable interns to effectively support public infrastructure projects and contribute meaningfully to municipal operations.

What is the difference between Public Works Intern vs Civil Engineering Intern?

AspectPublic Works InternCivil Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework in public works, civil engineering, or related fieldsEnrolled in civil engineering or related engineering degree programs
Work EnvironmentPublic sector, government agencies, municipal projectsEngineering firms, construction sites, consulting companies
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government, public infrastructure projectsEngineering firms, construction companies, infrastructure projects

Public Works Interns typically focus on municipal infrastructure projects and work within government agencies, often requiring coursework in public works or civil engineering. Civil Engineering Interns usually work in engineering firms or construction environments, with a stronger emphasis on engineering principles. Both roles serve as entry points for students seeking careers in civil infrastructure, but their work settings and specific focus areas differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Public Works Intern jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Public Works Intern job openings:

Public Works Intern jobs near you

Public Works Recycling Internship

Anne Arundel County

Annapolis, MD

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Internship

Re-posted 29 days ago

Anne Arundel County rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

777th of 853 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Description The Department of Public Works - Recycling program is seeking temporary, unpaid interns with a minimum of 8 hours/week and a maximum of 12 hours/week. All work hours must be done Monday - Friday during standard business hours (8 am - 4:30pm). This internship is an extension of academic instruction and provides the opportunity to turn classroom instruction into practical application in the workplace.

The intern will draw upon the knowledge gained through their college coursework in order to perform the principal assignment and/or projects of this internship. Examples of Duties and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Internship Opportunities: Recycling: To gain experience in administering a multi-faceted recycling program within a County-government organization. The internship includes exposure to a diverse range of skill sets, including marketing, business development, publications, graphic design, environmental policy and solid waste facility operations.

Activities include: Developing recycling outreach pieces for print and web publication using computer software applications; presenting the "Recycle More Recycle Right" message to school children and to adult audiences; conduct site tours of the Millersville Landfill and Resource Recovery Facility, and promoting the County's recycling programs to residential and commercial customers. Describe the Intern's principal learning assignments and/or projects. What will the Intern learn about, be exposed to, or assist with.

Assist with the development of outreach pieces for print, mail or web publication. Assist with preparing an outreach presentation and delivering to public audience. Learn about the recycling industry and the recycling programs offered by Anne Arundel County.

Describe what the Intern will achieve through this experience: An understanding of public service provided by County Government. Communication with citizens regarding the importance of recycling, source reduction, landfill preservation and the preservation of natural resources. The intern will gain a broader perspective of the waste management industry, including the effort required to manage a successful recycling program within a local government framework.

Minimum Qualifications All applicants/students must have a cumulative *GPA of a 3.0+. **Students are required to upload an official or unofficial transcript to their application to demonstrate their enrollment status and GPA. Note: For continuous postings, qualified applicants are reviewed and referred to the Department every month

Candidates will receive a notification upon referral to the Department. However, due to the volume of candidates, the Department will only reach out to candidates it is interested in. As such, candidates are encouraged to wait 4-6 weeks after notification of referral before reapplying.

Supplemental Qualifications College Major Preference: Ideal for students studying Marketing, Business Administration, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, Communications, Graphic Design, or related fields.

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