Overview: During summers at the Discovery Center, located in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods within 1300-lake Vilas County, the Water Monitoring Interns are key members in our water-related monitoring and outreach efforts. Interns assist in projects including aquatic invasive species (AIS) monitoring and removal, water quality assessments, and lake level monitoring.

• Hours: At least 40 hours/ week with usual Tuesday-Saturday work week that includes a good deal of flexibility and will include some required evenings and holidays.
• Length of Service: up to 14 weeks, approximately May 17– August 20, 2021

Requirements:

• General: Excellent oral and written communication skills. Strong organizational skills. A cheerful, positive attitude. Reliability and the ability to self-motivate and work independently, as well as with a team. Ability to collect, enter, and compile accurate data in written and electronic formats. Willingness to work outside in a variety of weather conditions. CPR and First Aid certification, and WI Boater Safety Certification (if born after January 1, 1989) are a mandatory requirement for this position, and proof of current certification is required on file prior to start date. Must be comfortable in and around water, and comfortable working on boats. Valid driver’s license required.
• Education and experience: Majoring in limnology, fisheries, conservation biology, environmental education, natural resources, or a closely related field. Basic knowledge of limnological principles including aquatic invasive species, chemistry, biology, conservation, and sampling methods. Boat experience preferred (please indicate relevant experience and WI Boater Safety Certificate on application, if applicable). Will train the right candidates.

Expectations and Opportunities:
This position is responsible for following main areas:

1. AIS monitoring and delivering water-related programming to members, user groups, and the community.
2. Assist with citizen science AIS monitoring and public education efforts through outreach, program delivery, and training. Conduct or assist with aquatic plant surveys, bio-control beetle rearing, water quality monitoring, snorkel surveys, and crayfish trapping. Identify and map areas of AIS infestations.
3. Sharing your passion and knowledge of Wisconsin’s AIS and lake health challenges and successes.
4. Conduct Clean Boats, Clean Waters boater surveys: Inform and educate boaters on how to inspect and clean boat hulls, live wells, trailers, props, and other equipment. Inform boaters about Wisconsin laws regarding invasive species. Input written survey data into Surface Water Integrated Monitoring System (SWIMS) database.
5. Participate as part of the dedicated Water Program Team at the Discovery Center
6. Work a flexible week including evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on schedule. Assist in programs, special events and fundraisers, and community outreach. Communicate needs to and be willing to help other staff members as needed.
7. Assist with storytelling initiatives for the organization, through social media, photos, and presentations. If school internship credit through completion of a project is needed, we are happy to accommodate and work out details based on interest.

You will gain experience in: Citizen-based monitoring programs, community and volunteer engagement, aquatic surveying, data entry, teaching and program delivery, motorized and non-motorized boat operation, and volunteer supervision and coordination.