Fisheries Survey Intern

This is a great opportunity for a rising college junior or higher, who has a demonstrated interest in gaining valuable field experiences by supporting an angler survey project that determines angler utilization and socioeconomic impacts of the James River fishery, by working with Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) professionals who share the same passion. The DWR is responsible for the management of inland fisheries, wildlife, and recreational boating for the Commonwealth of Virginia. We are leading wildlife conservation and inspiring people to value the outdoors and their role in nature.

DWR values Diversity, Opportunity and Inclusion by striving to become a workforce that is reflective of the population it serves and recognized as the "employer of choice for all" in state government for recruiting, retaining, and sustaining a ready, diverse, and highly skilled workforce. We will ensure that policies and practices support an inclusive culture, not only in a manner that complies with all applicable laws, but also fosters an environment in which every individual has the opportunity to prosper and contribute to the mission of the agency.

The incumbent in this position should have a familiarity with recreational fishing and a basic understanding of aquatic ecology. This position will spend a significant time outside and will interact directly and often with the angling public. Applicants should be self-motivated and be able to work independently.

The 12-week internship is from May 17, 2024, thru August 2, 2024, and will average 30-40 hours per week. Weekend work and nonstandard hours may be required as a significant portion of this internship.

Housing may be provided for this internship opportunity. The successful incumbent will be responsible for securing their own transportation needs.

The successful applicant will be required to earn a DWR Safe Boating Certificate prior to the start date. To find a DWR certified safe boating class near you, go to https://dwr.virginia.gov/boating/education/requiremenl/stepsto-requiremenl/. Online and classroom options are available.

Opportunities for Professional Development

—Learn the basics of fisheries and angler surveys, including field techniques, angler interviews, data collection, data entry, data analyses, and reporting.

—This internship will focus on the human dimensions' aspect of fisheries management, contributing to an angler survey of the lower James River. These angler surveys are conducted periodically by DWR to assess angler satisfaction, resource utilization, and the value the aquatic resources provide to the Commonwealth.

—Learn about electrofishing, aquatic habitat assessments, water quality monitoring, fisheries equipment operation and maintenance, and sample collection.

—Opportunities for outreach, hatchery operations, partner collaboration (e.g. US Fish and Wildlife Service, Virginia Marine Resources Commission, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, and several Indigenous Tribes), and other DWR opportunities may be part of the experience as well.

Q7. Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

—Applicant must be at least 18 years of age and be enrolled as a college undergraduate junior or higher, for the fall 2025 semester;

—Must currently be authorized to work in the United States, per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services requirements (www.uscis.gov/l-9);

—Minimum GPA of 2.8 and be able to provide official college/university documentation of current GPA;

—Have a valid driver's license;

—Be comfortable in and around water;

—Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel);

—Able to work independently, while following supervisor's instructions and guidance;

—Have the ability to collect, organize, analyze and disseminate information with attention to detail and accuracy;

—Have good verbal communication skills; and

—Have the ability to earn a DWR Safe Boating Certificate.

Additional Considerations

—Student working towards an undergraduate or graduate degree in the field of Natural Resources with a concentration or interest in fisheries conservation or management;

—Experience and comfort level surveying the general public;

—Experience collecting and documenting data;

—DWR Safe Boating Certificate; and

—Familiarity with kayaks, canoes and/or boats.