This internship program provides hands-on field and laboratory experience collecting and analyzing environmental data gathered from WSDOT wetland mitigation sites. We use quantitative and qualitative monitoring methods to conduct vegetation surveys. We use statistical methods to evaluate quantitative data. Most field activities focus on vegetation sampling and plant identification. We include other activities such as evaluating soils, hydrology, and wildlife as time allows. Plant identification laboratory sessions, supplemental training, and seminars take place on the TESC campus.

Though there will be some variation in the 11-week schedule, most weeks will include three field days (7:15 am to 4:30 pm) and one day including plant lab on the TESC campus (8:00 am to 4:00 pm).

Important Information:
– Some field days may be longer than planned depending on traffic and site location. We cannot guarantee a specific time of return from the field. For distant sites, travel time may be similar to field time. Some sites require overnight travel.

-Fieldwork will be conducted despite the weather (rain or shine, heat or cold). We expect the interns to be appropriately equipped for the weather.

-Some sites present challenging field conditions, including but not limited to uneven terrain, working in water, and working around thorny or stinging vegetation.

Internship Video with additional information:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-A5OxgjKBw

Students from a broad variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply. However, we are particularly interested in students with the following skills and academic preparation:
-a degree in (or near completion) the natural, environmental, or biological sciences
-experience in the use of a technical plant key
-coursework in wetlands ecology, botany, and statistics
-plant and wildlife identification skills

Candidates MUST commit to participating in both field (10 hour days) and lab (8 hour days) activities Monday through Thursday for the duration of the internship (June 25 – September 6).

Important Dates:
• April 5: The last day applications will be accepted.
• April 16 – April 18: Interviews dates at WSDOT in Olympia.
• April 26: Applicants will be notified of decisions.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: April 5, 2018

Apply online at: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Environment/Wetlands/Monitoring/internship.htm

To Apply (the following are required):
• An application (doc 89 kb) (computer generated or typewritten).
• A resume.
• A list of three references including contact information.