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Summer 2026 Cyanobacteria Monitoring Internship - May through August

The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) is seeking interns to help monitor cyanobacteria in Cape Cod's freshwater ponds as part of APCC's Cyanobacteria Monitoring Program.

APCC's Cyanobacteria Monitoring Program is a Cape-wide initiative to collect and analyze monitoring data on cyanobacteria in freshwater ponds on Cape Cod, and to communicate results to stakeholders and local officials. For the 2026 season (June - August), APCC is partnering with organizations and local officials to monitor ponds in each of the 15 towns on Cape Cod, with a target of 130 ponds monitored across the region.

Position reports to the program manager of the Cyanobacteria Monitoring Program.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

Minimum Education Requirements:

A high school diploma and one to three years of relevant field experience (e.g., limnology, biology, ecology, chemistry, and/or other science related to aquatic systems). Must be at least 18 years old.

Candidate should have excellent verbal and written communication skills, and be proficient in Microsoft Office 365, Excel, and Word.

Candidate must have the ability to:

• Meet defined schedules.
• Follow defined procedures for environmental sampling, processing, and analysis, and to carry out complex laboratory procedures.
• Examine water samples using a microscope.
• Create spreadsheets and reports from environmental monitoring data.
• Operate and use a handheld GPS and be familiar in the use of GIS.
• Technical writing and/or comfortable writing scientific articles.
• Be comfortable and feel safe working on, in, and around water, including swimming, wading, and boating.

Candidate with prior experience in water quality monitoring, especially related to cyanobacteria, algae and/or nutrient cycling in freshwater ponds, is preferred.

Working Conditions.

This is a paid full-time, seasonal internship from June to August. The typical work schedule is a 37.5-hour work week over four days per week M-Th.

Candidate MUST HAVE dependable transportation and a valid driver's license. Work involves traveling to and from sampling locations. Mileage will be reimbursed.

Physical Requirements of the Job:

Work is performed outdoors on Cape Cod's ponds in variable and sometimes inclement weather conditions. Position requires moderate mobility, the ability to lift 50 pounds, and the ability to traverse uneven terrain. The position does not involve swimming, but swimming skills are required for water safety.

Safety Note: This position requires working in proximity to toxin-producing cyanobacteria that may be present in ponds. While mild human exposure generally results in little or no reaction, there is potential for health impacts ranging from mild irritation from skin contact to severe illness and death associated with ingestion of water containing cyanotoxins. By taking proper safety precautions, we do not expect or foresee any negative health impacts from participation in this monitoring program, but all participants should be aware of potential risks to make personal decisions about their level of participation. APCC staff will provide training in measures to avoid or minimize contact with cyanobacteria while sampling and processing samples. Interns and staff are expected to observe these measures.

To Apply- Send your resume, cover letter, and two references. The two references must know you academically and/or professionally. Provide both their name, position, email address, and phone number.

APCC is the region's leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit environmental organization working for the adoption of laws, policies and programs that protect and enhance Cape Cod's natural resources and quality of life. Founded in 1968, the mission of APCC is to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural resources of Cape Cod. Our vision is a carbon-neutral Cape Cod where waters are restored and protected, natural landscapes and wildlife habitat are preserved, and where growth respects the character of town centers and rural lands.

APCC is an equal opportunity employer and provider. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.