Dr. Marc J. Taylor Summer Intern

TITLE: Dr. Marc J. Taylor Summer Intern 
TERM: June – August (10 weeks); Candidate must be able to work for the entire term
LOCATION: Various work sites within the Pomperaug River Watershed
WORKWEEK / HOURS: Monday through Friday, generally 35 hours/week; some weekend work required
WAGES: $17/hour
REPORTS TO: Watershed Programs Manager and Executive Director; coordinates with other staff, as needed

OVERVIEW
The Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition (PRWC) is accepting applications from undergraduate and graduate students pursuing environmental careers for its Dr. Marc J. Taylor Internship position. The intern will serve as an ambassador of PRWC, whose mission is to protect, sustain, and restore the water resources of the Pomperaug Watershed through community engagement, education, advocacy, and science-based action.

The Dr. Taylor Intern will support PRWC’s scientific research, community outreach, and environmental stewardship and advocacy initiatives that may include, but are not limited to, stream temperature monitoring, bacteria and nitrate stream monitoring, planning and facilitating workshops and educational programs, participating in water resource management meetings, and supporting relevant conservation activities.

The ideal candidate is a motivated, mature, and skilled individual who enjoys performing a mix of outdoor field work and office assignments and is comfortable interacting with residents of all ages. Candidates should demonstrate a solid work ethic, understanding of the scientific method and organizational skills, as well as a positive attitude and a commitment to the environment. Daily access to a personal vehicle is required (mileage reimbursement for non-commute, personal vehicle travel will be provided). 

EXPECTATIONS
Intern expectations include, but are not limited to the following abilities:

• Respectfully represent Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition in the development, coordination, and completion of various conservation projects.
• Maintain good communication and professional relationships with Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition staff, board, program partners, and the general public.
• Adhere to all staff, safety, and program procedures and policies including applicable elements of the PRWC employee handbook.
• Ensure a safe, professional work environment for project team members including volunteers.
• Engage in professional development activities, as needed, to obtain/renew necessary knowledge, skills, and best practices for resource management practices.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Intern responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Complete high priority projects such as water quality sampling, streamwalk surveys, river clean-ups, community outreach, riparian habitat improvement, terrestrial and aquatic invasive species removal, and storm drain marker installation
• Ensure a safe work environment for project members and the public
• Routinely prepare and maintain tools/equipment before and after projects
• Maintain strong relationships and communication with project partners
• Complete tasks that involve heavy lifting (40+ pounds), repetitive motion, walking/hiking while carrying packs/tools/gear over uneven terrain including streambanks and river channels
• Perform physical labor that includes lifting, bending, kneeling, and working with hand tools for 2- to 3-hour intervals
• Working outdoors in various conditions including hot and cold temperatures, sun and rain, and open water
• Other assignments that support PRWC’s scientific research, outreach, and environmental initiatives
• May lead volunteers in conservation projects and stream monitoring assessments

QUALIFICATIONS & ELIGIBILITY
Candidates should possess, at a minimum, the following:

• Strong interest in natural resource conservation, management, and education
• Commitment to protecting and improving the quality of the environment
• Ability to work responsibly and cooperatively as a member of a team
• Capacity to perform strenuous physical labor such as carrying 40+ pounds, including tools (e.g. shovel, saw, etc.), over uneven terrain, paddling on open water, and wearing chest waders for hours at a time
• Understanding of the scientific method and best practices for field safety and ability to adhere to field data collection protocols and data quality objectives
• Strong organization, data management, and analysis skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Google equivalents
• Familiarity with ArcGIS, handheld GPS, and EpiCollect5 technologies will be considered a plus
• Possess a clean, valid, state-issued driver’s license and daily access to a personal vehicle
• Knowledge of both native and invasive terrestrial and aquatic plants is helpful
• Candidates holding current CPR and First Aid Certifications preferred
• Eligibility to work in the United States

EOE STATEMENT
Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the bases of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital status, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other status or class otherwise protected by law.