Watershed Restoration and Assessment Intern

Position Summary

The Watershed Restoration and Assessment Intern will assist the Palouse Conservation District in implementing a research and monitoring program to assess changes in water quality, soil health, and riparian habitat associated with conservation projects installed on private lands. The conservation measures assessed will include riparian buffers and changes in agricultural tillage practices. This internship will provide networking opportunities while working with private landowners and 18 partners from local, state, and federal agencies, and scientists from Washington State University and the University of Idaho. While working with the Research and Monitoring team the intern will conduct water quality monitoring, stream and riparian habitat assessments, vegetation surveys, and will help with soil sampling. They will learn basic data and statistical analysis in R and Excel, GIS mapping and analysis techniques and use GPS systems to map and monitor changes over time. The intern will also work with the Research and Monitoring Coordinator to design and implement a research project that fits the individual’s interests.

Position Details

FTE: 1.0 FTE (40 hours/week), 15-week temporary appointment

Compensation: Starting at $14.75/hour (depending on experience)

Position Type: Regular (benefit eligible)

Required Qualifications

  • Working toward or received a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences, or closely related field; OR working toward or received a technical degree (AS/AA) and 1-year related experience. Qualifying experience may substitute year-for-year for the education requirement.

  • Experience with Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and Arc GIS.

  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

  • Physically able to carry up to 40 lbs. over steep and rough terrain in inclement weather conditions.

  • Good organizational skills and the ability to multi-task effectively.

  • Valid, unrestricted driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge of watershed monitoring and management, with an emphasis on streams and riparian zones.

  • Experience programming with The R Project for Statistical Computing or other programming languages.

  • Knowledge and experience working with ESRI Products.

  • Experience installing, maintaining, and using water quality sensors, sondes, and data loggers.

  • Knowledge of local plant communities and ecology.

  • A team player who values building partnerships and a non-regulatory approach to natural resource conservation.

  • An interest in agriculture and land stewardship.

Application Instructions

To apply, please click the link here.

Please be prepared to submit a letter of interest and a resume by March 1, 2022. Applications that do not include both a letter of interest and a resume will not be considered. Palouse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Description

To view a full position description, please click the link here.

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