Port Operations Intern

Salary: $20.00 HourlyLocation : Tacoma, WAJob Type: Intern/ No BenefitsJob Number: 723Department: Port OperationsOpening Date: 03/04/2026Closing Date: 4/30/2026 11:59 PM PacificFLSA: Non-ExemptBargaining Unit: NWSA NONAnticipated Starting Salary: Undergraduate students: $20.00/hour Graduate students: $25.00/hourJob SummaryThis internship will assist the NWSA Operations team while gaining an introduction to and understanding of port operations. Tasks may include: participating in safety briefings, operations, and cross departmental team meetings; reviewing and updating reports and KPIs; and helping to identify opportunities to increase efficiency across departmental systems, policies and procedures.This internship is expected to start on or around June 1st for up to 3 months.Hours will be determined by individual class schedule and availability within the Monday-Friday, 6 am to 4 pm core hours. Expected to work up to 24 hours a week.Essential FunctionsApplicants must be enrolled in an accredited school, college or university pursuing a degree in business, economics, maritime operations or a related field, and have a strong interest in international and domestic shipping and port operations.Applicants must be proficient in Microsoft Office software applications. The ability to collect, compile and analyze data and communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing are essential. The ideal candidate will be able to take direction, move a project forward with moderate supervision, be able to multi-task, have familiarity in PowerBI, be open to taking on a variety of different types of work, be detail oriented and enjoy being part of a team.Required Education and ExperienceAll individuals offered an internship must provide acceptable proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States. Proof will be required prior to starting.The successful intern must possess (or obtain within 30 days of employment) a valid driver's license to complete the essential functions of the role. Intern must be able to successfully complete a background investigation which may include driving record review.Additional RequirementsIn the cover letter, the applicant must clearly describe the following:Why are you interested in the internship?What specific skills can you contribute to the internship?What are your future career goals and how will this internship help you in reaching those goals?Only applications which are complete and meet the qualifications and requirements identified in this announcement may be considered for interview.CompensationUndergraduate students: $20.00/hourGraduate students: $25.00/hourThis individual must demonstrate a caring customer service attitude, a strong commitment to operational excellence, and dedication to the organization's core values: Integrity & Transparency; Excellence; Adaptability; Stewardship; Teamwork & Partnerships; and Health & Safety. The Port seeks candidates who will embrace and model these values both internally and externally, and who understand what it means to carry out these values in their everyday work. We value individuals who also bring an impeccable work ethic, honesty, and integrity, and who consistently exhibit enthusiasm, energy, and a drive to succeed.In accordance with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986, all persons offered employment must provide acceptable proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States. Proof will be required prior to employment.Candidate must be able to successfully complete a background investigation. Candidate must also be able to obtain/maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), which is a program managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Information on this program can be viewed .Unless altered by an applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement or by a written employment agreement signed by an employee and the Executive Director, the conditions of employment for this position are 'at-will', which means that either the Port or an employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason not prohibited by law. No supervisor, manager, or director of the Port, other than Executive Director, has the authority to alter these employment conditions.THE PORT OF TACOMA IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING A WORKPLACE THAT IS FREE FROM ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT. WE ADHERE TO ALL APPLICABLE STATE AND FEDERAL ANTI-DISCRIMINATION LAWS.This positions is not eligible for benefits.01Are you currently enrolled in an accredited technical school, four-year college or university, or an accredited graduate school?YesNo02Have you attached a cover letter clearly describing: 1. Why you are interested in the internship? 2. What specific skills can you contribute to the internship? 3. What are your future career goals and how will this internship help you in reaching those goals?YesNo03Do you have or are you able to obtain a valid Washington State driver's license?YesNo04What are your available dates and hours per week? (Example: June 15-September 30, 30 hours per week.)05How did you hear about this internship opportunity? If you were referred by an employee or other person, please specify who referred you.