Position Description:

The Olympia Public Works Department, Storm and Surface Water Utility (SSW) seeks a GIS intern.  SSW plans and maintains the City’s storm and surface water infrastructure.  The Water Resources GIS Intern will assist the SSW team with storm infrastructure mapping by performing routine to moderately complex geo-processing, fieldwork, research, and analysis functions.  Work is performed with general supervision, allowing the intern opportunity for exercising independent judgment.  The intern will report to the Senior Stormwater Program Specialist.
 

If you are majoring in Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Geography, Urban Planning or a closely related field, we invite you to apply for this opportunity to become an intern with the City of Olympia.
 

The selected intern will work with the Senior Stormwater Program Specialist and other professionals in activities such as:

• Perform routine to moderately complex GIS analytical and geo-processing functions, including digitizing, editing, manipulation, management, and analysis within ESRI’s ArcGIS software.

• Collect storm infrastructure data in the field using Field Maps for ArcGIS.

• Add field data to the attributes of the City’s storm feature classes.

• Provide field and document research to verify and correct GIS Data.

• Assist in the maintenance of data quality assurance and quality control with meticulous attention to detail.

• Prepare documentation and metadata that describe application procedures, data requirements, software functions, work that will be performed, and work that has been completed.

The anticipated start date is June 1, 2025 (flexible). This internship is expected to run through December 2025 (some flexibility).
 
Ideal Candidate Profile

• Ability to interpret construction plans, drawings and legal descriptions.

• Knowledge and understanding of municipal stormwater infrastructure and function.

• Experience using ArcGIS and Excel software.

• Experience using GPS software.

• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather.

• Ability for mobility on uneven terrain and occasionally lift and/or carry 25-50 lbs.

• Good communication skills.

Learning Objectives

• Receive hands-on experience using GIS tools; gain a greater understanding of GIS and how it is used for business decisions in a municipal government setting.

• Expand research skills by exploring data collection venues, examining technical documents, performing record searches, and creating and maintaining spreadsheet records.

• Develop technical, writing and analytical skills.

• Gain field experience using GPS and other field equipment.

• Gain an understanding of municipal storm and surface water utility infrastructure and operations.

Knowledge and Experience Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with ESRI’s ArcGIS 10x software; geodatabase, database management, and editing experience.

• Competence with Microsoft Office; emphasis on Excel and Word.

• Experience communicating effectively both orally and in writing.

• Technical and precision writing and editing skills.

• Constructive problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Self-starter, able to work independently, multi-task and prioritize, complete tasks on time and produce quality, detail-oriented work.

• Ability to prepare basic maps and graphics.

• Ability to work in the field in all weather conditions.

• Familiarity with Python scripting (preferred but not required).

• Valid first aid/CPR card (preferred but not required).

• A valid Driver’s License is required (Washington State preferred).

Salary and Schedule

This internship requires that the applicant is currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student.  Work hours are up to 19 hours per week during school and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks and summer.  Generally, work hours are between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. M-F.  This position is not eligible to receive benefits such as medical insurance, paid vacation or paid holidays.  You will receive sick leave in accordance with Washington State Law.

To Apply

• Submit a cover letter and resume by attaching them to your electronic application. The cover letter must be no more than two pages long and must include specific examples of how you meet the Ideal Candidate Profile for this position.

• This recruitment is open until filled. To be considered for the first round of interviews please submit your application by 11:59 PM Monday, May 12, 2025.

• Answer the Supplemental Questions included as part of this employment opportunity application.

• Only electronic applications are accepted.

Contact information

If you have questions about the position and/or requirements, please contact Sue Barclift, Senior Stormwater Program Specialist, via email at sbarclif@ci.olympia.wa.us.

Union:

Compensation (minimum-maximum):

Exempt:

For general application or position questions please contact the hiring supervisor or Human Resources at humanresources@ci.olympia.wa.us.

The City of Olympia complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Manny Bosser, Director of Human Resources, at (360)753-8309 or mbosser@ci.olympia.wa.us. This contact is for ADA accommodations only. If you have questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the manager noted in the Contact section near the top of this recruitment.