Summer Water Quality Intern 

Opportunity Description:

The Neponset River Watershed Association is looking for two enthusiastic volunteer interns, late spring through summer of 2022, with an interest in watershed sciences, water quality, and/or freshwater and estuarine ecology. The interns will work in close collaboration with the Association’s River Restoration Director, Environmental Science Fellow, Executive Director, and community volunteers and will receive hands-on experience with environmental science fieldwork, lab work, and project management.

The interns will help with all aspects of the volunteer water quality monitoring program and hot spot monitoring program during the summer of 2022. This includes preparing sampling materials and supplies, fieldwork, data management, sample analysis in the lab, and volunteer coordination. The interns will also assist with planning and coordination for the 2022 Fall Neponset River Cleanup. Depending on the intern and their level of interest there may be the opportunity to take a leadership role on an independent project in projects involving the Neponset estuary or the upcoming Superfund designation. The interns will also gain experience on additional projects underway with the Association, including restoration projects and the development of a biomonitoring program.

This is an unpaid internship.

Where:

Work typically occurs at the Neponset River Watershed Association offices (2173 Washington Street Canton, Massachusetts 02021) and in the field throughout the watershed. Depending on the status of the COVID-19 pandemic, office-related activities may be held virtually, with daily “check-in” virtual meetings with the supervisor. Field activities and essential office tasks will follow all guidelines for COVID safety.

When:

The schedule is for 2-3 days a week, with a minimum of 10 and maximum of 20 hours per week depending on the intern’s availability, interests and other commitments. Help can begin in May and run through October. A minimum commitment of 10 weeks is requested. The schedule is flexible but must be consistent from week to week. Work occurs primarily during normal business hours, with occasional early morning, evening, or weekend activities.

Skills and Special Requirements:

• The interns should be undergraduates or master’s students pursuing degrees in environmental science or related fields
• Familiarity with environmental sampling and analysis techniques is desirable but not required
• Self-motivation, reliability and the ability to work independently and follow specific sampling protocols are all critical, as is attention to safety procedures
• Basic computer skills are necessary and having your own transportation is required
• Interns should be enthusiastic to work in the field on uneven terrain and under adverse weather conditions (i.e. rain)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• The demonstrated ability to engage with racially, ethnically and socio-economically diverse community members is strongly desired.

To Apply:

To apply, please send an email describing why you are interested in the position with a copy of your resume to NepRWA River Restoration Director, Sean McCanty at mccanty@neponset.org