Summer Job Opportunity: Lake Monitoring Assistant
Employer: Maine Department of Environmental Protection
(ME DEP), Division of Environmental Assessment, Lake Assessment Section
Location: Augusta, Maine
Period of Engagement: Late May – Late August 2022
Compensation: Hourly Rate: $18.00 not to exceed 40 hours per week
Project Supervision: Lake Assessment Section Biologists
Description of the Position:
The Lakes Assessment Section operates within Maine Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Environmental Assessment. The Section is tasked with the protection of Maine’s lakes through the collection, assessment and management of sound scientific data, identification of threats to lake ecosystems, use of applied science, and dissemination of information to those concerned with lake water quality and habitat.
The Lakes Assessment Section is seeking to fill a seasonal position based out of the Augusta DEP office, likely through a temporary employment agency. The Section is participating in the 2022 National Lake Assessment, which is a large-scale survey of our nation’s lakes coordinated by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The successful applicant will assist lake section biologists in implementing this survey. The work will be conducted primarily in the field, though some work may take place in the DEP office or laboratory.
The survey lakes will often be in in remote areas. Some overnight travel may be required. The successful applicant will be expected to perform his or her duties under physically challenging conditions. Long field days, hiking with heavy loads of gear and enduring summer heat, sun, rain and insects will be common occurrences. The successful applicant should have experience with and be comfortable in both canoes and power boats.
Responsibilities:
The intern would assist DEP staff with lake habitat and water quality surveys as part of the National Lake Assessment and routine lake monitoring. Specific activities and responsibilities include:
• Accompany DEP staff on sampling trips to evaluate the water quality and habitat condition of Maine’s Lakes and Ponds.
• Follow specific sampling protocols and survey methodologies related to the collection, handling, labeling and packaging of samples.
• Process water quality samples in the laboratory for various water quality parameters.
Qualifications:
• Strong work ethic and willingness to work in adverse conditions and be flexible about schedule.
• Conscientious and relaxed attitude.
• Must be comfortable in and around boats and water. Canoes and small vessels will be used routinely. Must be able to swim. Must be comfortable travelling to and working in remote areas of the state.
• Be willing to learn new topics.
• Be flexible in terms of learning field, laboratory and office duties.
• A background in biological or environmental science coursework or work experience is preferred.
Application Process:
Applicants will be evaluated on a rolling basis. Hiring decisions will be made by March 1st, 2022. Please send cover letter and resume to: Jeremy.Deeds@Maine.gov.