Water/Wastewater Engineering Internship (Summer 2026)
Announcing the Summer 2026 Junior Commissioned Officer Student Training and Extern Program (JRCOSTEP) of the US Public Health Service!
Are you an engineering student interested in serving tribal nations with safe drinking water and wastewater facilities?
JRCOSTEP interns spend their summer break learning alongside engineer officers of the Indian Health Service (IHS). Students work in the IHS Division of Sanitation Facilities Construction on water, wastewater and solid waste engineering projects for tribes across the US.
Duties
- Assist with engineering design of water and wastewater projects
- Collaborate with tribal government and communities
- Conduct field work on tribal lands, including: surveying, investigating malfunctioning water and sewer systems, and system testing
- Write engineering technical reports and cost estimates
- Inspect construction of water and wastewater facilities
Eligibility
- US Citizenship is absolutely required by law.
- Current undergraduate students enrolled in an ABET-accredited engineering program and graduate students enrolled in an engineering Master's program.
- Must resume full-time studies in Fall 2026.
- Must be able to pass security and medical checks (Medical Standards: https://usphs.gov/media/4nhfmjln/medical-accession-standards-tab-a.pdf)
Benefits
- Pay: Approx. $5,200/month including housing stipend
- Housing Stipend: A tax-free allowance for your rent based on your office location
- Travel costs for temporary relocation are covered (inbound & outbound)
Program Details
- Locations available across the US
- 30-120 day internships
- Start and end dates negotiable
- No service obligation after internship
Interested in becoming a JRCOSTEP Engineer Intern?
Contact us to learn more about the application process and eligibility or visit:
https://www.usphs.gov/students/
APPLICATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 15, 2025