Aquatic Biology Intern (Unpaid Internship)

Who We Are: The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts' environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. ??Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition. Who We Are as an Employer: At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreation facilities we care for - strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs please visit or contact us at [email protected] Job Opening: The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks applicants for Aquatic Biology Intern (Unpaid Internship). Dates 6-1-26 to 8-14-26. This internship is unpaid and designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field. Candidates may be eligible to earn academic credit through their college or university. Applicants interested in gaining hands-on, real-world, experience in aquatic biology including aquatic invasive species, water quality monitoring, phytoplankton, zooplankton, and fisheries are encouraged to apply for a seasonal internship with the Environmental Quality Section of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Water Supply Protection (DCR-DWSP), Wachusett Reservoir Watershed. The candidate selected for this position will work directly with DWSP staff to supplement various fieldwork and data management tasks associated with environmental monitoring data generated for the purposes of water resources protection. The individual will assist with collection of surface water samples in the Wachusett Reservoir and Watershed and learn proper use and maintenance of various field-based environmental monitoring tools. The selected candidate will learn proper collection techniques for various biological constituents in surface waters. Projects include assisting aquatic biologists with surveys of aquatic vegetation in the reservoir and water bodies throughout the watershed, algae and zooplankton identification, and data analysis. Candidates with interest or experience with the R programming environment/Shiny may have the opportunity to participate in data management or application building using these tools. Interns will have the opportunity to shadow other DWSP staff (e.g. biologists, environmental planners, foresters). The program may be adjusted to accommodate the intern's needs for earning academic credit or stipend through their academic institution (e.g. adding a research project, additional time, etc.). DUTIES: -Assist with collection of surface water samples from Wachusett Reservoir and Watershed. -Assist with surveys of aquatic vegetation, especially invasive species. -Assist with identification of algae, cyanobacteria, and zooplankton. -Assist with various data management tasks associated with environmental datasets. -Learn proper sampling techniques and use of gear for environmental monitoring. -Perform routine maintenance on select equipment in accordance with established standard operating procedures. This internship includes a mix of office and field work. The candidate should be comfortable working outdoors under varying environmental conditions. This internship involves field work which will require the candidate report to our office in West Boylston one to two days per week. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: -Completed coursework in the biological and/or natural resource sciences (e.g. biology, environmental biology, microbiology, natural resources, fisheries, and related disciplines), knowledge of factors controlling environmental quality, sample collection and/or computational experience. -Experience working outdoors and on the water in canoes/kayaks/small boats, identifying flora and fauna using dichotomous keys, recording data in the field. -Familiarity with GIS programming including ESRI ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online applications, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint). First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Please see Preferred Qualifications. _Comprehensive Benefits_ When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Job: Environmental and Energy* *Organization: Department of Conservation & Recreation *Title: *Aquatic Biology Intern (Unpaid Internship) Location: Massachusetts-West Boylston-180 Beaman St Requisition ID: 260002KG