We are always looking to work with students interested in exploring a career in the environmental sector. There are opportunities to build skills in the fields of ecology, chemistry, biology, marketing/outreach, and much more. Students must be at least high-school age to participate in our internship programs. Check out our internships below! While our internship is geared towards students, we are open to all members of the public.

Watershed Science Internships

Fall and Spring Semester

BMI and Chemistry Lab Internship

Learn to identify benthic macroinvertebrates (BMI) in the bug lab, perform chemistry tests in the chemistry lab, and help out on water quality monitoring and creek surveys. There is also the option to conduct a research project relating to one or both fields using SSI’s data. The research project will be self guided with support from the lab managers.

The work will entail:

• Following strict protocols
• Aiding in water quality monitoring
• Recording data
• Counting and sorting BMI stored in an alcohol solution
• Using a microscope to identify BMI to order
• Handling heat and chemicals safely
• Properly cleaning lab equipment after use
• Reporting to multiple supervisors

Must complete at least 60 hours of combined lab and research time, or 8 weeks minimum, for this internship. We accept up to 2 interns per semester.

Click here for a video made by one of our interns about their job and experience here, and the scientific discovery they made whilst working in our bug lab!

Summer

Creek Survey Internship

Assist with surveys in creeks throughout the Northern and Central Sierra! Gain hands-on experience with habitat monitoring and data collection including benthic macroinvertebrates, algae, organic matter, and physical habitat. Field crews will carpool from the office.

The work will entail:

• Following detailed scientific protocols and paying attention to detail
• Wearing waders and hiking through creeks and difficult terrain for up to 8 hours a day
• Carrying monitoring equipment that weighs up to 25lbs and potentially hiking up to 3 miles to a survey site
• Working with a diverse group of staff and volunteers

Must complete at least 60 hours during the summer for this internship. We accept up to 6 interns per semester.

Click here for the full job description.

Applications

Deadlines

Fall Semester: Apply by August 15th, internship begins mid September.

Spring Semester: Apply by December 15th, internship begins early January.

Summer: Apply by May 1st, internship begins early June.

To Apply

For Fall and Spring internships, email Mali Valerio at bugs@sierrastreamsinstitute.org with a personal statement detailing your background in ecology, biology, or a related field, as well as which internship you’re interested in and why. College students must also send a resume.

For Summer internship, email Mali Valerio at bugs@sierrastreamsinstitute.org with your resume and cover letter. More details can be found in the full job description.