Well Water Sampling Intern

Madison Metropolitan Sewer District

Job Title: Well Water Sampling Intern            Division: Operations & Maintenance

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt                  Salary Grade: $20.00/hour

Reports to: Laboratory Supervisor                

Position Purpose

Under close supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor, the Well Water Sampling Intern will gain hands-on experience in environmental field sampling and laboratory support activities while contributing to work that directly protects public health and the environment. This internship provides practical experience in proper well water sample collection, documentation, and data handling, with a strong emphasis on following established protocols to ensure sample quality and integrity.

The position is primarily field-based and involves independent travel to residential sampling locations throughout Dane County and surrounding areas, coordination with homeowners, and daily route planning using GIS-based tools. The internship is designed for a student pursuing a science-related degree and requires full-time availability during the summer to support the District’s well water monitoring program.

For all positions at the District, enhanced safety precautions are in place for essential operations. This internship requires on-site work in the laboratory, office, or field.

 Duties

• Schedule daily sampling routes using ArcGIS software
• Contact homeowners to notify them of upcoming sampling visits
• Travel to residential sampling locations throughout Dane County and surrounding areas in a District vehicle
• Collect well water samples for chemical and microbiological testing
• Follow established sampling protocols to ensure sample integrity and quality
• Receive and log collected samples into the laboratory database upon return from sampling routes
• Document sampling activities and maintain accurate records
• Support general laboratory or field-related duties as assigned

 Qualifications

Required: 

• Currently enrolled college student pursuing a degree in a scientific discipline
• Completion of at least two semesters of college-level chemistry with laboratory coursework
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Valid Driver's License

Qualified applicants will submit a resume and cover letter along with their application to be considered for this position.  

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Work is performed in laboratory, office, and field environments. The position requires the ability to lift and carry trays weighing up to approximately 25 pounds. Interns must be able to use computer equipment for extended periods and possess sufficient hand, arm, and finger dexterity to operate laboratory instruments and office equipment. Visual acuity is required to read and write text and numbers. Speaking and hearing abilities sufficient for in-person, public, and telephone communication are required. Noise levels may vary from quiet to loud.

This internship is not eligible for remote work, consistent with District policy.