Watershed Planning Program; Water Quality Monitoring Section Intern - UNPAID

Job Description

The Watershed Planning Program (WPP) in the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) seeks an unpaid intern to assist with monitoring and analysis of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cyano

HABs) across Massachusetts. The intern will support data collection, species identification, and reporting to aid water quality standards development and restoration initiatives.

• Track occurrences of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms throughout the state.
• Conduct desktop reconnaissance of impacted water bodies to summarize lake characteristics, ownership/management organizations, and access points for monitoring surveys.
• Collect cyano
  
  HABs samples at impacted water bodies.
• Identify and enumerate cyanobacterial species using microscopy.
• Ship samples to EPA laboratory for toxin analysis.

• Proficiency in the ESRI suite of ArcGIS software, or similar GIS application.
• Basic knowledge of watershed science and fundamental principles of limnology and hydrology.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite software.
• Ability to work independently and in an organized manner with strong attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills (telephone, in person, and written).
• Willingness to learn how to identify and enumerate cyanobacteria species using microscopy.
• Willingness to collect cyano
  
  HABs samples from shore and from a boat.
• Comfortable working around water.
• Valid Class D driver’s license.

Contracted Student Intern:
Watershed Planning Program (Water Quality Monitoring Section) Intern Start/End Date: 6/15/2026 – 10/16/2026 Weekly

Hours:

22.5 hours (part‑time) Number of Openings: 1 Internship is unpaid; academic credit may be available.

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.

If you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact the Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator:
Chris Mendez (EEADiversity – 617‑872‑7730).