Aquatic Biology Intern (Unpaid Internship)

Who We Are: 
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Who We Are as an Employer:

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreation facilities we care for – strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs please visit www.mass.gov/dcr or contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov

Job Opening:

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks applicants for Aquatic Biology Intern (Unpaid Internship). Dates 6-1-26 to 8-14-26.

This internship is unpaid and designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field.  Candidates may be eligible to earn academic credit through their college or university.

The Aquatic Biology Intern will work with the Environmental Quality section of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Water Supply Protection (DCR-DWSP). This seasonal internship will assist with projects related to environmental monitoring and research in the Quabbin Reservoir and Ware River Watersheds, with an office based in Belchertown, MA. Assisting with phytoplankton monitoring and aquatic invasive species surveys will be a primary duty, with opportunities to contribute to other water quality monitoring efforts (e.g., Zooplankton, macroinvertebrates, long-term data analysis). The Aquatic Biology Intern will select a project aligned with their interest and present results at the end of the internship to the Environmental Quality team.

DUTIES:

• Assist with phytoplankton monitoring and collection of water quality parameters in the reservoir

• Assist with aquatic invasive species surveys and data analysis

• Assist in equipment maintenance (including EXOII Sonde calibrations) - as needed

• Perform literature reviews and research statistical analysis methods - as needed

• Develop skills in R-studio environments to visualize, analyze and summarize data - as needed.

Internship includes field work in the Quabbin Reservoir and various ponds in the Quabbin Reservoir and Ware River Watersheds

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Completed coursework in the environmental sciences (e.g. ecology, biology, chemistry, and/or related disciplines)

• Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, etc)

• R, R-Studio (helpful to have a background but not entirely necessary, just be interested in learning to code!)

• Candidate should be comfortable working outdoors under varying environmental conditions (onboard motorboats (sometimes with choppy water) and kayaks)

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Please see Preferred Qualifications.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

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.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100%25 of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.