Public Works Maintenance Seasonal Intern

SUMMARY:

The Seasonal Intern position is designed to provide seasonal workforce development opportunities for high school and college students (ages 16 and older). Interns will gain hands-on experience supporting Public Works, Utilities, Housing, and community operations while developing practical skills in infrastructure and maintenance of facilities. This program introduces participants to potential career pathways in construction, engineering, utilities, and related fields.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Duties are assigned based on experience, and ability to perform.

Interns will work under direct supervision.

• Assist with general maintenance of community buildings and grounds
• Support cleaning, organization, and upkeep of public facilities
• Assist with lawn care, vegetation management, and seasonal grounds work
• Support basic roadway, drainage, and infrastructure maintenance activities
• Assist with minor repairs such as painting, basic carpentry, and equipment cleaning
• Observe and assist (as appropriate) with water and wastewater operations
• Assist with tool organization, inventory, and equipment maintenance
• Participate in community improvement projects and special assignments
• Follow all safety rules, PPE requirements, and supervisor direction
• Maintain a positive, respectful, and team-oriented attitude
• Other duties as assigned

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES: 

Interns will be exposed to:

• Public Works operations and infrastructure systems
• Basic construction and maintenance practices
• Safe use of tools and equipment
• Workplace safety standards and expectations
• Tribal government operations and community service
• Career pathways in skilled trades, utilities, and public service

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 16 years of age
• Must be currently enrolled in high school, technical school, or college
• Ability to follow direction and work in a team environment
• Ability to perform basic physical work
• Willingness to learn and participate in assigned tasks

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and perform physical tasks throughout the day.
• Ability to safely use tools under supervision

(No heavy equipment operation unless 18 or older and meet training, and supervision requirements)

REQUIRED TRAINING

• Workplace safety orientation
• PPE training
• Harassment and respectful workplace training Job-specific safety instruction

WORKING ENVIRONMENT 

Work is performed in indoor and outdoor environments and may include:

• Exposure to weather conditions
• Dust, noise, and light construction activities
• Interaction with Public Works, Utilities, and Housing operations

DURATION & SCHEDULE

• Seasonal employment (typically May through August)
• Flexible scheduling based on school calendar
• Up to 40 hours per week (may vary based on age and availability)

DISCLAIMER AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made in accordance with applicable policies.

This position is intended as a training and development role, and tasks will be assigned based on age, experience, and safety considerations.

The Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance applies to this and all employment opportunities for the Community.