About the role
Position Overview
Water Quality Monitoring Intern
📍 Vail, CO | 💰 $23.00 - $28.755 per hour DOE | 📅 May – August 2025 (Flexible Start & End Dates)
Are you passionate about environmental sustainability and eager to gain hands-on field experience? The Town of Vail’s Environmental Sustainability Department is looking for a motivated Water Quality Monitoring Intern to assist in water quality research, data collection, and community outreach. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work outdoors, contribute to important restoration efforts, and support our Restore the Gore initiative.
This is a part-time, seasonal internship (24 hours per week) lasting three to four months. We offer flexibility to accommodate school schedules.
Position Overview: What You’ll Do
As a Water Quality Monitoring Intern, you will play a crucial role in monitoring Vail’s water quality, supporting stormwater infrastructure projects, and assisting with environmental education efforts. Your work will directly contribute to protecting and restoring local waterways.
Key Responsibilities:
- Stream Compliance Monitoring – Conduct surveys of town-owned and privately owned streamfronts to verify compliance with stream tract and setback ordinances.
- Water Quality Sampling – Collect and process water and sediment samples for analysis.
- Field Research & Data Collection – Identify and document noxious weed infestations and assist in tracking pesticide use patterns.
- Stormwater Infrastructure Mapping – Assess the labelling and functional status of town stormwater systems.
- Community Outreach – Participate in public education events and assist with sustainability outreach.
- Green Team Meetings – Attend monthly environmental sustainability team meetings and contribute ideas for ongoing projects.
- Other Duties as Assigned – Support various environmental sustainability initiatives as needed.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about water quality, sustainability, and environmental protection, we encourage you to apply!
📩 Application Process:
- Resume detailing relevant experience and coursework.
- Cover letter explaining your interest in this internship and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Unofficial transcript to verify enrollment and relevant coursework.
For any questions, please contact Pete Wadden at pwadden@vail.gov.
🌊 Join us in making a difference! Apply today and help protect Vail’s water resources. 💙♻️
Skills / Requirements
Skills, Qualifications & What We’re Looking For
📚 Education & Experience:✔ Current enrollment in an undergraduate degree-seeking program, preferably in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Biology, or a related field.✔ Previous experience with water quality sampling is a plus but not required.
🛠 Required Skills & Abilities:✔ Interest in a career in environmental sustainability or water resource management.✔ Strong communication skills, including public speaking and writing.✔ Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and willingness to learn new web-based programs.✔ Self-directed, motivated, and reliable with a professional attitude.✔ Ability to walk, hike, and carry equipment over varied terrain in all weather conditions.✔ Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally.
Culture / Lifestyle / Benefits
Culture, Lifestyle, and Benefits
At the Town of Vail, we are committed to environmental excellence and fostering a sustainable mountain community. As an intern, you’ll gain real-world experience<
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