R2026107976 Student Laboratory Intern
Position Summary
The One Water Solutions Institute (OWSI) is seeking student laboratory interns to support day-to-day laboratory and research activities within the Water Technology Accelerator Platform (Water TAP) at CSU Spur in Denver.
This is an entry-level, hands-on position designed for students interested in gaining experience in water, environmental science, engineering, laboratory operations, and applied research. Student interns will work alongside OWSI staff, researchers, graduate students, and project partners to assist with routine laboratory activities, research projects, equipment maintenance, water sampling, data collection, and general laboratory organization.
Prior laboratory or water-related experience is helpful but not required. Training will be provided for assigned tasks and equipment.
Department:
Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering
Anticipated Start Date:
October 14 - 19, 2026
Anticipated Weekly Hours
10 - 30
Description of Work Unit
The One Water Solutions Institute (OWSI) is housed within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Colorado State University. OWSI connects CSU’s academic and technical expertise with public, private, and nonprofit partners to advance sustainable and resilient water systems through applied research, technology innovation, and technical assistance.
One of OWSI’s flagship initiatives is the Water Technology Accelerator Platform (Water TAP), a collaborative research, testing, and demonstration platform that supports the development and evaluation of emerging water technologies. Water TAP provides students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience with real-world water treatment, reuse, monitoring, and research systems.
OWSI and Water TAP are based at CSU Spur at the National Western Center in Denver, Colorado.
Essential Job Duties
Assist with routine laboratory activities and day-to-day operation of the Water TAP laboratory.
Assist with water sample collection, labeling, handling, preparation, and documentation.
Support basic laboratory and research data collection and data entry.
Assist with setup, operation, cleaning, and organization of laboratory and pilot-scale equipment under staff supervision.
Perform routine laboratory checks and assist with monitoring research systems and equipment.
Support basic preventative maintenance and cleaning of laboratory equipment, tools, workspaces, and research systems.
Assist researchers and OWSI staff with setup and breakdown of experiments, demonstrations, and research projects.
Organize laboratory supplies, tools, equipment, and inventory.
Help receive, unpack, organize, and store laboratory supplies and equipment.
Maintain clean and safe laboratory work areas, including washing glassware and returning tools and materials to their designated locations.
Follow laboratory safety requirements, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and instructions provided by OWSI staff.
Assist with other laboratory and Water TAP projects as assigned.
Conditions of Employment
Position is primarily in-person at CSU Spur in Denver, Colorado.
Must be able to follow laboratory safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment.
Some duties may involve standing, bending, lifting, carrying equipment, and working in indoor and outdoor research areas.
Student employees must maintain eligibility for student employment according to CSU requirements.
Work schedule will be coordinated around academic schedules and laboratory needs.
Supervision
Student Laboratory Interns will work under the supervision of OWSI and Water TAP laboratory staff. Interns will receive training and direction before independently performing assigned laboratory tasks.
Minimum Qualifications
Current student enrolled at Colorado State University or another eligible postsecondary institution, as permitted by CSU student employment requirements.
Interest in laboratory work, environmental science, water, engineering, biology, chemistry, sustainability, or a related field.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to work safely and responsibly in a laboratory environment.
Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn new procedures and equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with faculty, staff, researchers, and other students.
Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, or similar programs.
Preferred Qualifications
Coursework or academic interest in environmental science, environmental engineering, civil engineering, biology, chemistry, natural resources, water resources, or a related field.
Previous laboratory, research, fieldwork, or hands-on technical experience.
Familiarity with basic laboratory equipment or water-quality monitoring.
Experience with data entry, spreadsheets, inventory, or documentation.
Interest in water treatment, water reuse, sustainability, environmental monitoring, or applied research.
Ability to work independently after receiving appropriate training.