Canton Water Laboratory Intern

Salary Range: $16.00-$18.21

The City of Canton Water Department is seeking two laboratory interns for summer 2026. The interns are responsible for assisting staff and management in daily laboratory functions and related testing. Available to begin as early as May 1st.

Interested in this position? Please submit your application through  by clicking the “Apply” button on the posting. Applicants must submit a valid photo  with their application.

To be eligible for the position under this examination, all applicants must be U.S. citizens or possess a valid permanent resident card. Applicants must be 18 years of age, must be a high school graduate or possess a G.E.D, and have a valid driver’s license. Applicants must have recently completed or be currently enrolled at a college or university in one of the following degrees: environmental science, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, geology, laboratory science, or a related field.

This is a non-union, temporary position, working 20-40 hours a week. Actual scheduled days and hours to be determined upon hire. Office hours M‑F between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.

Employment is anticipated to take place from
May 1st to August 31st, 2026.

Receives training and performs duties in support of the Water Department Laboratory Division. Specific tasks and responsibilities will be determined by the intern’s supervisor and the needs of the department. Intern(s) will be asked to perform, participate in, and observe activities relevant to the department. Activities vary by division but may include assisting with projects, research, preparation of reports, inter‑office communication, attending meetings and events, and general office tasks.

Performs related work as required.

• Assist with various projects related to water testing and analysis in a laboratory setting
• Collect water samples at various off‑site locations in accordance with the Ohio EPA Compliance
• Monitor and report relevant data in an efficient and organized manner
• Utilize various computer programs and equipment to perform, analyze, and track testing
• Maintain records in accordance with department rules and policies
• Adhere to all safety procedures and policies
• Research, study, and file records as needed
• Coordinate and communicate with management staff daily regarding the status of projects and assignments

• At least 18 years of age
• Recent graduate or current enrollment in college/university in environmental science, biology, chemistry, geology, biochemistry, laboratory science, or a related field
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral. Strong listening skills and ability to follow instructions
• Competent with the use of a computer and basic comprehension of Office Suite products
• Ability to work independently and accomplish assigned tasks with minimal supervision
• Preferred some coursework/training in a lab setting, performing tests or analysis
• Ability to collect and record scientific data in an efficient and organized manner

Applicants must apply through to be considered and must submit the following documents.

• Valid driver’s license
• College transcripts (may be unofficial) if currently enrolled in college
• Resume (preferred)

The Civil Service Department will refer eligible candidates to the Water Department when they are ready to conduct interviews.

• Students must maintain enrollment with an accredited college or university during the internship (unless already graduated).
• Adherence to all City and department policies regarding attendance, work hours, computer usage rules, attire, conduct, and behavior.
• Timely completion of all assigned tasks and responsibilities.
• Remain professional and respectful when working with fellow employees, supervisors, and members of the public.

Be advised that candidates may be subjected to a drug test. Accordingly, eligibility is not considered final until drug testing has been successfully completed with a negative result.

Be advised that candidates may be subjected to a confidential background investigation, including, but not limited to, a criminal record check and driving record check.

Reasonable accommodation in accordance with ADA Compliance will be made available upon request to those qualified applicants in need of it, in order to achieve the essential job functions as described above.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for appointment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, age, type of disability, or any other non‑merit factor.