Vector Surveillance Intern
Background: Utah has a long history of effective mosquito control, beginning with the establishment of the first mosquito abatement district in 1924. The state has adopted an Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) approach, which includes community engagement, surveillance, physical control, and targeted insecticides. These efforts have significantly reduced mosquito populations and mitigated the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Utah's mosquito abatement districts, which are government organizations, have long-standing partnerships with state and local health departments and other organizations, further enhancing their effectiveness. This comprehensive strategy highlights Utah's leadership in mosquito control and its commitment to protecting public health.
The South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District — Established in 1952, the District seeks to serve the public by minimizing mosquito nuisance and disease with a priority on safety, ecological stewardship, and cost efficiency.
Interns will be introduced to the role of mosquito surveillance and control in promoting public health and quality of life. They will also experience firsthand the principles and practices employed by the South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District, which are applicable in Utah and worldwide.
Experience may include:
- Participating in Integrated Mosquito Management
- Deploying and retrieving mosquito traps
- Identifying larval and adult mosquitoes
- Performing genetic testing to monitor mosquito populations for viruses of public health concern
- Rearing mosquitoes for use in laboratory procedures
- Implementing established protocol to monitor mosquito populations for pesticide resistance
- Summarizing or presenting surveillance or pesticide resistance bioassay results
- Developing, under a mentor, projects in mosquito control, mosquito surveillance, or other related topics
- Participating in public health fairs, presentations, and other public education opportunities.
When: Flexible start dates in early May 2025 and end dates after mid to late August 2025
Hours: 40 hours per week, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm Monday – Friday; occasional after-hour work will be required
Compensation: 19.00 hr.+
The South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District is located in West Jordan, Utah, and services the Salt Lake Valley south of Salt Lake City.
Apply by sending resume to Dan McBride at dmcbride@sslvmad.utah.gov, or in person at 7308 Airport Road, West Jordan, UT 84084. This position will be open until filled.
South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District is an equal opportunity employer.