USGS Date Compilation of Non-USGS Streamflow Datasets to Modeling Streamflow in Headwat

Overview

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) internship in Tacoma, Washington. The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict dynamics of Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence for decision makers. This opportunity involves research on headwater streams and streamflow estimation, with data compilation, standardization, and georeferencing to the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD).

Applicants should submit a complete application package. A complete application consists of:

• An application
• Transcript(s) – unofficial transcripts or copies of student academic records may be submitted; include details about acceptable transcripts
• A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
• Two educational or professional recommendations

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

USGS – United States Geological Survey

DOI-USGS-2026-31

The research project focuses on assembling streamflow measurements not currently published online (approximately 70 datasets across CONUS) and using them to advance estimation of headwater streamflow. Methods include processing data from diverse sources (states, universities, and community science) and engaging in reproducible code development and workflow creation.

You will gain experience and collaborate on compiling the streamflow datasets into a standardized, georeferenced format for the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD). Project activities include:

• Developing reproducible code in R or Python to download and process streamflow datasets from URLs
• Developing a unified streamflow database for querying and filtering
• Developing a workflow for accurate georeferencing of streamflow observation locations to the NHD flowline network

The internship aims to provide experience organizing large time series and spatial datasets through reproducible code and workflow development. You will have opportunities to learn from USGS scientists within the Water Mission Area.

Mentor:
Kristin Jaeger (kjaeger). For questions about the research, contact the mentor(s).

June 15, 2026. The start date is flexible and depends on various factors.

Length: 10 weeks, with potential renewal based on DOI availability of funds. Level of participation: full time. Participant stipend: varies by opportunity, location, education, and experience; exact rate discussed during interview and included in the appointment offer.

Open to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should review the program’s Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details for acceptable immigration statuses.

The program is administered by ORAU under a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage ORISE. Participants are not employees of USGS, DOE, or ORISE, and there are no employment-related benefits. Health insurance is required and can be obtained through ORISE.

For questions about the application process, email USGS and include the reference code for this opportunity.

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree in one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past four years or anticipated by 6/1/2029.