TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM

DANE COUNTY HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT INTERNSHIP

The Dane County Highway Department Internship is a paid, hands-on training opportunity designed to prepare participants for long-term employment in road maintenance and construction. Offered in partnership with the Latino Academy of Workforce Development and the Urban League of Greater Madison, this 30-week internship provides real-world experience working alongside seasoned professionals in the field. Participants gain practical skills in highway operations, safety procedures, and equipment use while building a direct pathway to full-time positions with Dane County Highway. The internship is ideal for individuals looking to begin a stable, family-sustaining career in public infrastructure.

Please note that internship cohorts are selected each year in early spring, with interviews typically held in April and the internship beginning in late April or early May. Interested individuals are encouraged to stay connected for updates and application details.

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CLASS DETAILS

Enrollment Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Possess a valid Wisconsin driver’s license
Have a CDL Learner’s Permit (CLP) at minimum (a Class B or A CDL is strongly preferred)
Pass a DOT physical and drug screening
Pass a criminal background check
Have a clean driving record.
Demonstrate reliability, strong work ethic, and ability to follow safety protocols
Be open to learning, feedback, and working as part of a team
Have a strong interest in highway maintenance, construction, or public works.

Spanish-speaking applicants are encouraged to apply, and language support is available throughout the process.

Application & Selection

Applicants must submit a resume and participate in an interview. Selections are made each spring, with interviews typically in April and start dates in late April or early May.

Candidates selected for the internship must complete a criminal background check, a driving record (MVR) audit, pass DOT drug screening, and be registered in the FMCSA Clearinghouse prior to the start of the internship.

Schedule and Format

This is a 30‑week paid internship with Dane County Highway & Transportation. Interns work full time and gain hands‑on experience in street maintenance and construction, including roadway repairs, traffic control, and entry‑level equipment operations under supervision. Work is primarily outdoors and may be weather‑dependent.

Work hours: Full‑time (typically Monday – Thursday, 10-hour days; early morning start times).
Worksites: Assigned across Dane County; interns generally report to a county yard/garage at the start of the shift.
Training & safety: Interns receive training in workplace safety, work‑zone/flagging procedures, equipment basics, and standard operating protocols. Required PPE will be provided.