The Pipeline Program is a work-based learning summer internship program for high school students in Springfield.
The program was launched by the Commission in partnership with Springfield Public Schools, Veolia, and Massachusetts Water Works Association in 2023 to help build the next generation of water professionals by exposing them to these rewarding career opportunities, and to provide a paid opportunity for area youth to gain critical job skills while serving their local community.
Summer 2025 application information coming soon – please check back for updates.
Check out this video to learn more about the Pipeline Program
As part of the program, Pipeline interns explore various career opportunities and gain hands-on experience by rotating through several Commission departments including:
- Water & Wastewater Operations
- Laboratory Services & Water Quality
- Watershed & Environmental Protection
- Engineering
- Information Technology & Cybersecurity
As the region’s largest water utility, serving 250,000 people each day the Commission operates out of facilities spanning the Lower Pioneer Valley. Pipeline Interns will complete their departmental rotations at Commission facilities located across the region.
Pipeline interns work and learn at Commission locations including Cobble Mountain Reservoir in Blandford and Granville, MA, West Parish Filters Water Treatment Plant, Westfield, MA, the Joseph J. Superneau Operations Center, Colton Street, Springfield, MA, and the Springfield Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility, Bondi’s Island, Agawam, MA.
In addition to the departmental rotation there are opportunities for enrichment activities including visits to other area water utilities, mentorship meetings, and team building. Interns are also enrolled in the Introduction to Becoming a Public Water System Operator Course through the Massachusetts Water Works Association (MWWA). This course prepares students to sit for the state Treatment I (T-1) licensing exam – the first step in establishing a career as a water treatment plant operator.
The Commission developed the Pipeline Program to help build the next generation of water workforce professionals. Trained and licensed water professionals are in high demand due to a wave of retirements and to meet the needs of more advanced drinking water and wastewater systems.
The Commission also recognizes its own need for qualified water professionals to operate and maintain a new state-of-the-art drinking water treatment plant as well as other modern infrastructure being built as part of its $550 million Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Renewal Program.
Pipeline Program
Paid Summer internship
Monday – Thursday
JJSOC Commission Operations Center, 71 Colton Street, Springfield, MA 01109
Interns will report to the JJSOC Operations Center and transportation to other Commission locations will be provided. On-time arrival by 7:00 AM is important for transportation to other locations.
Who Should Apply
Motivated, hard-working Springfield high school students in 10th, 11th & 12th grade looking to explore career options and gain experience. The Commission is working in collaboration with Springfield Public Schools, however any eligible high school students that reside in Springfield are welcome and encouraged to apply.
Must be at least 16 years old by June 1 of the program year.
Download the Pipeline Intern Position Overview to learn more about eligibility, job requirements, and responsibilities.
The Pipeline Program is intended to be an introductory, exploratory program. Previous Pipeline Program interns are encouraged to apply for other internships, seasonal employment, or full time employment (if applicable) positions at the Commission.
Summer 2025 application information coming soon – please check back for updates.
How to Apply
Apply online by visiting the Commission’s careers webpage an clicking the “apply for this position” link to be directed to the application. Applications with missing information or required documents will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.
- Review job description and information
- Complete online application form
- Upload required documentation to application:
-
- Letter of interest
- SPS Career Pathways Internship packet which includes 2 school-based recommendations (non-SPS students should submit 2 letters of recommendation)
- Resume is optional
Please note there is an individual file size limit of 20 MB. If file size exceeds 20 MB please submit as multiple attachments. Documentation can also be emailed to pipelineprogram@waterandsewer.org.
After You Apply
After the application is submitted with all required documentation the Commission will be in touch regarding next steps including to set up small-group virtual information sessions and candidate interviews.
Pipeline Interns will rotate through Commission departments/locations.
Work-based learning activities will take place both outdoors and indoors in a variety of conditions. Walking/being on feet for several hours may be required, including for site visits and tours. Safety gear, including safety boots, hard hat, and vest to be provided.
Must be at least 16 years old.
Successful applicants will be required to pass a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and CORI check before they begin employment.
The Pipeline Program is specifically intended for high school students in Springfield participating in their high school’s college and career readiness programs. The Commission is working in collaboration with Springfield Public Schools (SPS), however any eligible high school students that reside in Springfield are welcome and encouraged to apply.
Other internship and employment opportunities are posted on the Commission’s Careers webpage.