Undergraduate Intern II - Technical Writer

About the Role:

The Technical Writer Intern will work with members of the Technical Communications and Training teams, as well as staff in other WTD workgroups, to produce a section of an operations guide to help wastewater treatment plant operators better understand new systems. The Technical Writer Intern will be able to take ownership of their part in the project in a supportive and collaborative environment alongside team members who will be working on similar or related projects. 

Technical writing/technical communications is a unique field that builds specialized but highly transferable skills that are useful in many industries. Technical writers come from a variety of backgrounds. This position could be a good fit for you if: 

• You are a science student interested in learning how concepts you’re studying in class (environmental science, biology, chemistry, physics) are used in real-world applications like wastewater treatment to protect public health and Puget Sound
• You are an engineering student interested in getting experience reading technical documents like engineering drawings and project specifications, then interpreting the information for operator use
• You are a writing or communications student interested in exploring and building skills in technical communications as a potential career path
• You are a curious and motivated individual interested in learning about wastewater treatment processes, environmental protection infrastructure, or public sector construction management

What You Will Be Doing: 

• Research and collect information from a variety of sources including engineering drawings, design specifications, equipment manuals, staff interviews, and field documentation.
• Write descriptions of wastewater treatment process systems, equipment functions, safety systems, and more. 
• Produce or assist in producing graphics such as process diagrams and equipment layouts for an industrial facility. 
• Communicate project progress and challenges in one-on-one communications and group meetings.

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

Qualifications You Bring:

• Enrolled in a community college, college, or university at the undergraduate or graduate level with coursework in a relevant field, such as writing, communication, science, engineering, construction management, or technical illustration.
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with or ability to learn word processing, publication, content development, or graphic editing tools such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Creative Cloud tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team.

It Would Be Great If You Also Bring:

• Ability to read and interpret complex graphs, diagrams, charts, and schematics, or a willingness to learn.
• Ability to read and analyze dense or complex texts and assess what resources you need or what questions you need answered to understand the text.
• Interest in developing skills in writing, producing graphics or infographics, or other forms of communication.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to document field conditions in an industrial environment, including traveling on elevated, grated, or underground walkways and working near industrial equipment.

Workplace Exposures:

• Staff safety is our highest priority. Because field documentation requires entering an industrial environment which may include chemicals, noise, and contaminants, King County will provide appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safety training and escorts as necessary.