MASS. - As the weather heats up, so does the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s plans for work on and around the state’s roadways. 

They're looking to hire 120 to 150 summer interns ages 16 to 18 years old across the state. 

From Berkshire County to Metro Boston, seasonal maintenance and facility laborers will work on highway litter pick up, beautification projects, and other MassDOT jobs.

The 11-week program runs from June 16 to August 26. 

What You Need To Know

  • The standard workweek is full-time Monday through Friday and the start times for shifts will vary depending upon placement
  •  If you are under 18 years of age, you must obtain a work permit before starting
  •  For questions regarding the job posting, email robin.burke@dot.state.ma.us

MassDOT says it’s a great way to explore public service jobs and they often hire many students back with the department.

While education and experience are a big part of the summer program, MassDOT says the safety of teen interns is always a top priority.

“We put a lot of thought into the responsibilities of the role and the fact that these are technically minors. So we would really be keeping them to less busy roadways and working on painting, et cetera. Not on super trafficked roadways,” Meghan Haggerty, chief administrative officer of the Highway Division at MassDOT, said. “And that’s why we have the 18 plus positions, because they’re more adult and can handle more dangerous situations.”

This year MassDOT is introducing a new part of the summer program - interns will have sit-down sessions with employees to talk about things like resume writing, joining a union, and getting into trade careers.

Interested applicants can apply on the state's website. Select “start your career – find a Commonwealth Job” with "Seasonal Highway" for the job title.