College/Vet Paid Internship | VVWRA - Maintenance Mechanic - 100 hours | Spring 2027

Employer: Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority

Duration: 100 hours

Dates: February 16-April 18, 2027, 2 days per week

Location: Victorville, CA
Compensation: Paid Internship

College Credit: If selected, college credit will be available through Victor Valley College.

The Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority (VVWRA) is a regional public utility that treats and reclaims wastewater for the Victor Valley community. VVWRA provides hands-on learning opportunities for students interested in environmental services, water technology, and technical careers that help protect local water resources and support sustainable growth.

Program Overview

The Maintenance Mechanic Internship provides college-level and CTE students — as well as veterans transitioning into technical careers — with real-world experience maintaining and supporting wastewater treatment operations.

Interns will work side-by-side with skilled maintenance mechanics and plant operators to assist in mechanical repairs, preventive maintenance, and field operations that keep vital community infrastructure running efficiently.

This internship is ideal for students enrolled in community college programs, career technical education (CTE), or trade schools focused on industrial maintenance, water technology, environmental services, or mechanical systems.

If selected, college credit will be available through Victor Valley College.

Learning Objectives

• Develop applied technical skills in maintenance, inspection, and repair of water/wastewater equipment.

• Strengthen understanding of safety standards, confined space awareness, and job hazard analysis.

• Learn to use basic hand tools, diagnostic devices, and measurement instruments in a controlled environment.

• Explore career opportunities in utilities, public works, and environmental operations.

Key Responsibilities

Safety and Equipment Readiness

• Inspect, clean, and organize safety gear such as gas detectors, PPE, gloves, and harnesses.

• Assemble PPE kits and maintain readiness of field equipment.

• Participate in safety briefings, toolbox talks, and hands-on demonstrations with field staff.

Mechanical Maintenance Support

• Assist with oil changes, greasing, and mechanical servicing of pumps, motors, and valves.

• Support setup and teardown for maintenance projects.

• Retrieve tools, clean work areas, and help document daily maintenance logs.

Field and Collections Operations

• Accompany field crews on wastewater and stormwater system inspections.

• Learn how vac trucks, cranes, and remote-controlled inspection tools support fieldwork.

• Prepare vehicles and gear for daily operations and observe system performance monitoring.

Inspection and Data Collection

• Assist with inspection preparation including CCTV camera setup and cable handling.

• Help record site conditions, log footage, and maintain inspection documentation.

• Support storm drain and drainage monitoring activities under staff supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Enrollment in or completion of a community college or CTE program related to:

  • Water Technology

  • Industrial Maintenance

  • Mechanical Systems

  • Environmental Technology

  • Public Works or Utility Operations

• OR a military background with mechanical, electrical, or technical experience.

• Strong interest in public utilities, maintenance, or environmental service careers.

• Comfortable working outdoors and following established safety procedures.

• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs and use basic hand tools.

• Valid driver’s license preferred.

Work Environment

Interns will experience both indoor mechanical shop settings and outdoor fieldwork in active treatment facilities. Tasks involve light physical activity, use of standard tools, and exposure to industrial operations. All work is supervised by certified staff and conducted within OSHA safety guidelines.