SkillBridge program
DOW Skillbridge-Public Works Apprenticeship
About the program
Our Public Works crew keeps the city's water, wastewater, streets, and parks running for every resident and business.In a small city, Public Works staff do a bit of everything. As a SkillBridge intern you will work alongside our crew on real daily operations, learn how a municipal utility system is run and regulated, and build toward Texas licensing that leads to a civilian career. Service members with backgrounds in engineering, utilities, construction, equipment operation, logistics, or facilities maintenance are especially encouraged to apply, but no specific MOS/AFSC/rating is required.
What you'll do
What You'll DoUnder the supervision of experienced Public Works staff, the intern will rotate through these areas:
- Water distribution: assist with main and service-line repairs, meter reading and installation, valve exercising, fire hydrant flushing, and line locates.
- Water production and treatment: learn well and pump-station operations, chlorine residual sampling, and TCEQ-required monitoring and recordkeeping.
- Wastewater collection and treatment: assist with lift-station checks, sewer line cleaning, and plant operations and sampling.
- Streets and drainage: support pothole patching, street sign maintenance, drainage clearing, and right-of-way mowing.
- Parks and facilities: help maintain parks, city buildings, and grounds.
- Equipment and fleet: operate and perform preventive maintenance on city trucks and equipment such as a backhoe, skid steer, and mower (after training and authorization).
- Safety and administration: take part in safety meetings, traffic control and trench-safety practices, work orders, inventory, and project records.
- Emergency response: assist with main breaks, storms, and other service interruptions as needed.
Eligibility
Target military occupations
U.S. Army (MOS)
- 12N – Horizontal Construction Engineer (Heavy equipment operation, earthwork, road building)
- 12W – Carpentry and Masonry Specialist (Framing, concrete, finish work)
- 12H – Construction Engineering Supervisor (Project oversight, site layout)
- 12V – Concrete and Asphalt Equipment Operator
- 12C – Bridge Crewmember- U.S. Navy (Seabee Ratings)
- BU – Builder
- SW – Steelworker
- 002594 / B13A – Builder / Advanced Builder
- 001165 / B08A – Equipment Operator / Advanced Equipment Operator
- 002688 – Constructionman-Air Force Civil Engineer (3E0X1 / 3E2X1 structural and pavements/construction trades) and Marine Corps combat/general engineering fields
Eligibility and QualificationsSkillBridge eligibility (set by DoD Instruction 1322.29 and your Service):
- Active-duty service member (or eligible Guard/Reserve member) with at least 180 days of continuous active service.
- Within 180 days of your separation or retirement date for the full internship period.
- Written approval from your unit commander (typically the first O-4/field-grade commander in your chain of command).
- Completion of Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and any ethics or other requirements set by your Service.
- Understanding that your command may end participation at any time if mission requirements dictate.Required:
- Valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record; Texas license required by the start of permanent employment.
- Able to perform outdoor physical work in West Texas heat and cold, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in trenches, confined spaces, and around traffic with proper training.
- Willingness to learn, follow safety procedures, and work as part of a small team.Preferred:
- Military experience in engineering, utilities, construction, heavy equipment, motor transport, or facilities maintenance.
- Interest in earning a TCEQ Class D Water Operator or Wastewater Operator license.
- Commercial driver's license (CDL) or interest in obtaining one.
Good to know
What You'll Gain
- Hands-on experience across every part of a municipal public works operation.
- Training hours and guidance toward TCEQ Class D Water and/or Wastewater Operator licensing.
- Safety training such as trench safety, confined space, traffic control, and equipment operation.
- A supervisor and mentor who will help you translate your military skills to civilian public service.
- Consideration for a full-time City of Sonora Public Works position when one is open and you successfully complete the program. Employment after SkillBridge is not guaranteed.
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