Aquatic Biology Intern; Unpaid Internship

Aquatic Biology Intern (Unpaid Internship)

Dates: 06‑01‑26 – 08‑14‑26,

Location:

United States – Massachusetts – Belchertown – 485 Ware Road. Job Posting:
Feb 26 2026.

Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR), Division of Water Supply Protection (DCR‑DWSP) under the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA).

The Aquatic Biology Intern will work with the Environmental Quality section of DCR‑DWSP. This seasonal internship will assist with projects related to environmental monitoring and research in the Quabbin Reservoir and Ware River Watersheds. Primary duties include phytoplankton monitoring and aquatic invasive species surveys; additional opportunities include monitoring for zooplankton, macroinvertebrates, long‑term data analysis, and preparing a final presentation of results for the Environmental Quality team.

• 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
• Participate in field work in the Quabbin Reservoir and various ponds in the Quabbin Reservoir and Ware River Watersheds

• Completed coursework in environmental sciences (e.g., ecology, biology, chemistry, or related disciplines)
• Experience with R and R‑Studio (helpful but not required; must be interested in learning to code)
• Comfortable working outdoors under varying environmental conditions (including onboard motorboats and kayaks)

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

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.

An Equal Opportunity / Affidative Action Employer. Females, minority, 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% of the job requirements.

We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

For diversity, affirmative action or equal employment opportunity questions or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator:
Moneesha Dasgupta, EEADiversity – 617‑645‑0358.