Job Description

Summary of Work

As an

Environmental Science Intern

in the Watershed Management Program of the Water Quality Division, you will help protect and improve North Dakota's lakes and rivers through fieldwork, sample collection, and public health support.

In this role

, you will:

Collect water quality samples from lakes and rivers. Sample and process aquatic biota including fish, macroinvertebrates, and algae using nets, electrofishing gear, and related field equipment. Collect, prepare, and preserve fish tissue samples for laboratory testing. Respond to calls and assist with follow-up for the Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) Surveillance Program. Enter data, clean and maintain sampling equipment, and prepare samples for lab analysis. Support data quality and accuracy efforts through basic quality assurance tasks.

To succeed in this position

, you should be detail-focused, able to work outside in various weather conditions, and follow scientific procedures carefully. Interest or coursework in environmental science, biology, or natural resources is preferred. Strong communication, organization, teamwork, and a willingness to learn and safely use field equipment are important for this role.


This position is based in Bismarck, ND; however, considerable travel, with overnight stays, will be required. Transportation and per-diem reimbursement will be provided by the department.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. DEQ will not provide sponsorships.

To be considered for this role

, you must be enrolled in a college or university or be a recent graduate with coursework in chemistry, biology, geology, ecology, or other related physical or natural science.


A good driving record with a valid driver's license is required.


Experience with computers (ArcGIS, Office), GPS and maintenance of related equipment will be helpful. This position requires computer and data management capabilities.

About Team ND

"Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt


More than 7,500 talented, hard-working people across sixty-three agencies have come together as Team North Dakota. At Team ND, we are driven to succeed through gratitude, humility, curiosity and courage. Our purpose is to empower people, improve lives, and inspire success. Join us in being legendary.

Total Rewards:

The State of North Dakota is committed to providing team members with a strong and competitive rewards package that support you, your health and your family.


Considering a new position on Team ND? How does your current position stack up? Use our Total Rewards Calculator to estimate.

Application Procedures

All application material must be received on or before 11:59 p.m. CST on the closing date.

Applicants must complete the online application for employment and upload a resume, cover letter, and college transcripts (official or unofficial). Your resume should include information to demonstrate how you meet the minimum qualifications as posted. If the Department's Human Resource Division is unable to determine that you meet the minimum qualifications credit will not be given.


This employer participates in E-Verify. Please visit the following website for additional information: https://deq.nd.gov/jobs/


For more information about the position, contact Joshua Wert, Watershed Management Program Administrator, at jewert@nd.gov or (701) 328-5014. For assistance or questions regarding the application or interview process, please contact Sara Leno, Human Resource Director, at sajleno@nd.gov or 701-328-5161.


If you are experiencing technical difficulties with the Application Process or uploading attachments, please contact recruiter@nd.gov or (701)328-3290.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.


As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. Sect. 23-12-10.