Waste/UPW O&M Technician - Full Time Internship

LotusWorks is an Engineering Services provider specializing in managing Commissioning, Construction Services, Calibration, Operations & Maintenance scopes of work within global manufacturing facilities. We operate globally across EMEA and North America, partnering with the world's leading manufacturers in the Semiconductor, Pharmaceutical & Biologics, Medical Device, and Data Centre sectors. Our team of Engineering and Technical professionals is immersed in cutting-edge technologies and innovations. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, integral to our people-first approach.

About the role

We are seeking a motivated and mechanically inclined Waste / Ultra-Pure Water (UPW) Operations & Maintenance Technician Intern to support the operation and maintenance of critical water and wastewater systems within a semiconductor or mission-critical facility. This role provides hands-on experience with advanced UPW generation, distribution, and wastewater treatment systems, while working alongside experienced technicians and engineers in a highly regulated, safety-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Support daily operations of UPW generation and distribution systems, including reverse osmosis (RO), electrodeionization (EDI), ion exchange, degasification, UV oxidation, and sub-micron filtration systems under supervision.
• Assist in operating and monitoring wastewater treatment systems, including neutralization systems, pH adjustment, chemical dosing, lift stations, equalization tanks, and biological processes (e.g., MBR/BNR where applicable).
• Perform routine rounds and system readings; record key parameters such as conductivity, resistivity, TOC, pH, flow rates, pressures, and tank levels, and escalate abnormal conditions.
• Assist with preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical equipment including pumps, valves, filters, membranes, mixers, blowers, and chemical delivery systems.
• Support water quality monitoring and sampling activities to ensure compliance with process requirements and environmental discharge permits.
• Assist with chemical handling and dosing operations (acids, caustics, and treatment chemicals) in accordance with site safety procedures and SDS requirements.
• Support system flushing, regeneration, and sanitization of UPW systems, including resin beds, RO skids, and distribution loops.
• Assist in troubleshooting system issues such as membrane fouling, scaling, flow restrictions, pump failures, and instrumentation inaccuracies.
• Learn and apply safety procedures including lockout/tagout (LOTO), hazardous chemical handling, and confined space entry.
• Support startup and shutdown activities for UPW and wastewater systems, ensuring controlled and compliant operation.
• Assist in maintaining accurate CMMS documentation (e.g., Maximo), including work orders, calibration records, and maintenance logs.
• Observe and support vendor activities such as membrane cleaning, media replacement, and system performance testing.
• Participate in Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) programs, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, compliance, and water conservation.
• Develop an understanding of semiconductor water quality standards, contamination risks, and the critical nature of UPW systems for manufacturing operations.
• Perform any other duties or responsibilities that may be assigned in your role.

Requirements

• Exposure to semiconductor, data center, pharmaceutical, or other mission-critical environments.
• Basic knowledge of water/wastewater treatment processes (not required).
• Familiarity with CMMS systems (e.g., Maximo) is a plus.
• Enrollment in or recent completion of a technical program (mechanical, environmental, or related field).
• Mechanically inclined with a strong interest in hands-on technical work.
• Basic understanding of mechanical systems (pumps, piping, valves, etc.).
• Willingness to learn and work in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proof of education, licenses, and certifications will be required where applicable.