May-August 2023
Introduction and Job Description
LSM Overview – Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) is looking for curious and driven individuals to intern
with us during our busy Summer 2023 Season. A paragon of conservation efforts, LSM promotes lake
stewardship through widespread citizen participation in the gathering and dissemination of credible
scientific information pertaining to lake health. Each year, with the help of over 1,000 active volunteers,
our staff is able to monitor and collect data on 500+ lakes across the state. For 27 years LSM has worked
closely with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to ensure the standardization and validity
of volunteer data. Join us in being a part of our efforts to maintain healthy lake communities. The
opportunities offered through LSM to engage with staff, volunteers, partner organizations, and interns are
waiting for you; apply today!
To assist in the operation of the water quality and aquatic invasive species programs, including, but not
limited to: training of volunteers, preparation of volunteer documentation, operation of watercraft, outreach
and logistics related to training events, photo documenting training events, entry of data, assisting in the
operation and maintenance of water quality meters, Secchi discs, water core tubes, and other equipment
related to water quality sampling, assisting in invasive plant identification, and assisting in the development
of visualizations and guidance documents for outreach activities.
This is a two-part internship: during the late spring months you will be assisting the Water Quality Director
with technical trainings, and in the mid summer months you will transition to assist the Aquatic Invasive
Species Director with educational workshops.
What we are looking for in a candidate:
● Interest in working with community (citizen) scientists that come from a range of age groups;
● Knowledge in at least one area of ecological science, such as (but not limited to) botany,
limnology, microbiology, biogeochemistry, or hydrology;
● Experience working with biologic or environmental data;
● Experience working with geospatial data;
● Experience or a passion for teaching others;
● Ability to understand complex systems and convey important aspects of this to non-technical
audiences;
● Able to work independently, as well as part of a team;
● Strong educational, interpersonal and communication skills;
● Passionate about lake/water conservation and preservation;
● Willingness to learn about and spend time on inland water, and on boats (kayaks, canoes, or motorized
boats);
● A valid driver’s license and clean driving history, as well as a vehicle for transportation to the office
(transportation for field work will provided or compensation will be provided); and,
● Attention to detail and accuracy is absolutely essential!
What you will gain from this experience:
● Improved understanding of limnology, botany, biogeochemical cycling, and cyanotoxins;
● Expansion and refinement of interpersonal and teaching skills;
● Increased grasp of community science networks, development, and applications;
● A skillset that allows you to educate and engage with multiple communities on lake health;
● Valuable practical experience in the field of water resource protection, especially as related to
aquatic invasive species;
● An understanding of the important role the nonprofits play in advancing social and environmental
benefit; and,
● Experience in water-based activities (plant identification, kayaking, healthy lake indicators).
Pay, hours, benefits and certifications:
● 30-40 hrs per week
● Access to a kayak, paddle and PFD for the summer (when not in programmatic use)
● Opportunity to participate in networking and social events through the Maine Career Catalyst
program
● Travel across various parts of the state of Maine
● Opportunities to meet and network with experienced professionals in State government and
partnering NGOs
● Opportunities to meet and work with some of Maine’s most capable and dedicated volunteers
● Aquatic Invasive Plant Identification Certification
● Water Quality Monitoring Certification
● This is a paid internship, but we will prioritize students who have funding support from their
schools. We are happy to assist students with this process.
APPLICATIONS DUE FRIDAY, MARCH 17th
APPLICATIONS WILL BE EVALUATED ON A ROLLING BASIS
How to Apply: Please send along a PDF including your resume and letter of interest to
[email protected] with the subject [last name] Water Quality Intern. We will follow up with
time slots for interviews and if you have any questions please direct them to
[email protected]
Lake Stewards of Maine is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages diversity and equity in all
facets of the organization’s work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment
without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status,
or any other protected class.
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