Biologist Intern
Internships with WVDEP – Watershed Assessment Branch
The WVDEP-Watershed Assessment Branch (WAB) is responsible for monitoring, assessing, and reporting on the quality of WV’s waterbodies, including rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands. Assessing the water quality determines if waterbodies support their designated uses, such as drinking water, aquatic life/fisheries, and contact recreation. WAB is also responsible for developing restoration plans that identify pollutant sources and prescribe reductions to specific pollutants causing impairment in waterbodies. WAB field staff perform essential fieldwork to collect data used to fulfill these responsibilities. WAB Interns will have an opportunity to participate in the fieldwork duties. All work will be under the supervision of a full-time biologist/specialist and training will be provided on all methods as expected. Fieldwork requires:
- Travel across the state as a part of a field crew often staying out 3 nights per week. This level of travel could be frequent or weekly based on assignment. (Travel reimbursement is included).
- Collection of water quality samples for laboratory analysis, as well as extensive habitat documentation in accordance with WAB standard operating procedures.
- Collection of aquatic life such as benthic macroinvertebrates and fish specimens from various waterbodies.
- Work in remote areas that can only be accessed by hiking over rough terrain, as well as wading of streams with various bottom substrates. Use of a boat is possible in deep water conditions, so the ability to swim is encouraged.
- Exposure to various weather conditions from high heat to heavy rain over a typical long field day (at times longer than a 12-hour workday).
- Personnel to wear equipment such as chest waders, raincoats, and life vests, which are provided for intern use.
To apply for the Governor’s Internship Program, go to www.intern.wv.gov