Recreational Waters Intern (Summer Pool Intern) - Multiple Regions
Salary: $15.00 - $17.00 Hourly Location: Statewide, SC Job Type: Temporary - Full-Time Job Number: 183671/TBD Agency: SCDES-Regional & Lab Ops Opening Date: January 2, 2026
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00) Pay Grade: GEN06 Hiring Range: Min. $15.00 Hiring Range: Max. $17.00
EEO Statement Equal Opportunity Employer
Agency Specific Application Procedures: If you meet the requirements of the position and would like to be considered, you must submit a state application online. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. The quality of the application presented (completeness and accuracy as well as grammar and spelling) will be considered prior to the offer of an interview. A criminal records check will be conducted prior to an offer of employment. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on the stated closing date.
Veteran Preference Statement South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.
Description Benefits Questions Job Responsibilities Careers at SCDES: Where Passion Meets Preservation
Do you love South Carolina and protecting the environment? Come join our team at SCDES - put your passion to work with us! We are dedicated to protecting the state of South Carolina and we would love to have you as a member of our team!
Science | Service | Sustainability
This is a full-time seasonal internship beginning May 18th, 2026, through August 16th, 2026. This posting will be used to fill several internships headquartered in multiple SCDES offices across the state of South Carolina.
Office Locations Include: Anderson, Greenwood, Beaufort, Charleston, Greenville, Spartanburg, and Lancaster.
Applicants will specify their preferred location in the "Supplemental Questions" portion of the application. Make a Difference This Summer. Protect Public Health at Pools Across SC!
Are you looking for a hands-on summer opportunity that gets you out into the field? Join the SCDES team for an exciting, hands-on summer internship with the Bureau of Regional & Laboratory Services - Recreational Waters Program! This role uses chemistry, environmental science & safety, public health, and state law to keep people safe and healthy as they enjoy public pools, spas, lazy rivers, and water parks across South Carolina.
After completing our paid "Pool School" training, you'll inspect recreational waters across your assigned region, helping ensure safe, clean water for South Carolina's residents and visitors.
This is a great opportunity for students interested in environmental science, public health, or regulatory work. Gain real-life experience in a professional and field setting that will make your resume stand out.
Note for Current Students: College credit may be available. Please ask your school about requirements for requesting credit for internships or learning programs.
What You'll Do
• Conduct water quality testing and inspections at regulated swimming pools and aquatic facilities. • Ensure compliance with state health and safety standards. • Investigate public complaints and help facilities resolve water quality or safety issues. • Post public health advisories and notices when needed. • Work independently in the field while collaborating with a supportive team of environmental professionals. • Gain real-world experience in environmental quality control and public health protection. • Issue notices and closures for unsafe pools and follow up on corrections. • Document inspections and communicate with facility staff. • Perform other duties as required.
Why Join Us?
• Real-world field experience in environmental health and regulatory compliance. • Work that directly impacts public safety. • Opportunities for rehire or internship credit. • Be part of a statewide team making a difference.
Schedule & Commitment
This is a paid, full-time seasonal role beginning Monday, May 18th through August 16th, 2026.
One overnight stay may be necessary for "Pool School" training (travel expenses covered).
This internship does not require weekend work.
Learn More Explore the Recreational Waters Program: https://www.des.sc.gov/programs/bureau-water/recreational-waters.
Minimum and Additional Requirements
A high school diploma or GED (or you will receive your high school diploma or GED by May 18th, 2026). Must possess a valid driver's license and clean driving record. Additional Requirements: Individuals must be 18 years of age or older by May 18th, 2026. Must be able to swim. Ability to travel throughout the assigned region using a state vehicle for the full summer season. Strong communication and customer service skills. Ability to work independently, manage a daily route, and stay organized. Comfortable working outdoors and lifting up to 50 lbs.
Additional Comments Paid Training Provided! All inspectors will attend a multi-day "Pool School" that covers: Water sampling and testing procedures. Public health and pool safety regulations. Documentation and reporting. Customer service and communication. How to issue closures and conduct follow-ups.
Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application are encouraged to upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. If selected for an interview, a copy of the college transcript will be required via email or at the time of the interview. Please note that some departments within the agency may require an official, certified copy of the transcript prior to hiring or within a specific timeframe required by that area, after hiring. Failure to produce an official, certified transcript may result in not being hired or termination.
SCDES is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. The Department will not sponsor H1B visas for this position.
Benefits for State Employees The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
Insurance Benefits Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
Retirement Benefits State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
Workplace Benefits State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.
Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
Which best describes your qualifications for this position?
If this option fits you, consider applying for our "Summer Pool Inspector" role rather than the internship.
Will you be 18 years of age or older by May 18th, 2026?
Yes No
Are you a current or former employee of SCDHEC or SCDES?
Yes No
Have you worked as a Recreational Waters Intern (Pool Inspector) previously?
If you will be enrolled in a higher education program (technical school, college, or university) by May 18th, 2026, what year will you be scheduled to graduate?
2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 N/A
Please indicate your preferred headquarter(s) location. You may choose more than one location.
Anderson/Greenwood Beaufort Charleston Greenville/Spartanburg Lancaster
Required Question Employer State of South Carolina Agency SCDES-Regional & Lab Ops Address 2600 Bull Street Columbia, South Carolina, 29201 Phone 803-898-2687
The language used in this document does not create an employment contract between the employee and the agency. This document does not create any contractual rights or entitlements. The agency reserves the right to revise the content of this document, in whole or in part. No promises or assurances, whether written or oral, which are contrary to or inconsistent with the terms of this paragraph create any contract of employment.