Welcome to the first step in becoming a certified Class 1 Water Operator!
By applying to the Water First and FPDI Drinking Water Internship, you’re on your way to becoming a highly-skilled water protector and water science professional in your community.
What does a career as a water operator look like?
- Water operators are highly-skilled, in-demand professionals with great benefits.
- Responsible for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of the water treatment and/or wastewater facilities – no two days are ever the same.
- Room to advance and gain further experience.
- Become a front-line responder to water challenges.
- Great work-life balance.
- Lots of opportunity for overtime.
- Play an important role in the community.
- Be a proud part of safe water solutions and water protection efforts.
About the Drinking Water Internship
Participating Communities:
Birdtail Sioux First Nation | Ebb and Flow First Nation | Long Plain First Nation | Rolling River First Nation | Roseau River First Nation | Swan Lake First Nation | Waywawyseecappo First Nation
Job Description:
- Interns will receive technical, hands-on training in a number of areas to gain transferable skills related to becoming a Class 1 Water Operator
- The 15-month internship includes nine in-person training workshops, weekly online tutorials, and 13 months of practical experience working in community water treatment plants. Interns will also receive a personal laptop, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and certification bonuses upon achieving key milestones.
- Interns will complete a work placement in a local Water Treatment Plant assisting the Plant Operators, as well as conduct other duties as assigned.
- Additional supports including travel and phone allowance, training accommodations and limited child care support are available for qualified candidates
- Women are water-keepers and are encouraged to apply
Mandatory Qualifications:
- Must be affiliated with one of the participating First Nations
- High School Diploma or equivalent, or willingness to obtain with tutoring support during the duration of the program
- Eligible for community skills training support
- Must be available for duration of the full-time 15-month internship
- Must be willing to travel (paid) for training
Water First is proud to partner with First Peoples Development Inc. (FPDI) to offer a 15-month paid, full-time internship program beginning in October 2026. This opportunity combines hands-on training workshops, in-person and online learning, and a community-based work placement to help participants build the skills and experience needed for careers in water treatment and wastewater facilities. Through this partnership, interns will receive practical training while preparing for critical roles that support safe and sustainable water systems in communities.
Apply Now!
Please email your resume and cover letter to Julia Zazzarini at julia.zazzarini@waterfirst.ngo
Eligibility
Applicants must be affiliated with one of the participating First Nations. Please indicate your First Nation affiliation in your resume and/or cover letter. The participating First Nations are:
Birdtail Sioux First Nation | Ebb and Flow First Nation | Long Plain First Nation | Rolling River First Nation | Roseau River First Nation | Swan Lake First Nation | Waywayseecappo First Nation
Application Deadline: September 4, 2026