Land & Water Resources Internship

Land & Water Resources Internship
 

Organization: Polk County
Location: Balsam Lake, WI
Duration: 12 weeks (Approx. 480 hours)
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Preferred Start Date: June 1, 2026
Positions Available: 2
Compensation: Paid (details provided during interview)
Housing: Not provided; interns must secure housing within a reasonable distance.

Summary
Passionate about conservation and natural resources? Polk County is offering two students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in land and water resource management. This internship is ideal for students interested in environmental science, hydrology, conservation, and GIS technology.

About the Internship
Interns will work with Polk County’s Conservation Department to apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects. This position is preferred as a for-credit summer internship and provides exposure to diverse conservation practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect lake and stream water samples for lab analysis.
• Assist with aquatic plant and shoreline surveys.
• Monitor aquatic invasive species.
• Conduct GPS-based inventory of conservation practices, culverts, and invasive species.
• Support public educational events.
• Participate in county-wide agricultural cropping surveys.
• Perform GIS-based land use delineation on lakeshores and watersheds.
• Assist with miscellaneous projects as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Good driving record.
• Experience with lake sampling, aquatic plants, and invasive species.
• GIS experience or training.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to drive and trailer a boat; boater safety certification preferred.
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Ability to swim and general interest in the outdoors.

Eligibility

Currently pursuing a degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Hydrology/Water Resources, Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, Natural Resource Management, Conservation, or related fields.

Additional Information

Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs, walking, standing, and occasional outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
Polk County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations upon request.