Internship Limnology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Progressive Companies Summer Internship Program is a paid, full-time experience designed to launch your career. You'll take part in hands-on client projects, sharpen your problem-solving and communication skills, and gain a front-row seat to the world of architecture, design, engineering, and construction. Working alongside experienced mentors in a multi-disciplinary firm setting, you'll learn the tools and methods that build a strong foundation for your future career. Along the way, you'll take part in project site visits, volunteer outings, networking opportunities, and education sessions - all designed to fuel your career and your curiosity.
Please note: Applications are now open, and we encourage all interested candidates to apply. Interviews will begin in October 2026, so you may not hear back immediately. Thank you for your patience as we work through a high volume of applications.
As a Water Resources Intern, you will work collaboratively with environmental scientists to conduct aquatic plant surveys, collect water quality samples, and perform laboratory analysis. Typical work includes driving a pickup truck and trailering a boat to lakes in Michigan's lower peninsula, navigating with GPS, and recording field observations. This is a fieldwork-intensive role - expect to spend most of your time outdoors on the water rather than in the office.
Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the Water Resources team and clients to help meet project schedules and budgets.
• Assist with loading and unloading of survey supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Provide field observations and laboratory analysis consistent with Progressive's standards.
• Navigate a variety of weather conditions when driving pickup truck and boat several hours each day on the job.
• Identify a variety of aquatic plants using basic knowledge of limnology.
• Maintain boating safety certification and assist with minor boat and vehicle repair and maintenance as necessary.
• Drive a pickup truck and trailer a 16-foot boat to lakes throughout Michigan's lower peninsula, sometimes working long days up to 12 hours in length.

Qualifications:

• Enrollment in a Biology, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Sciences, or similar degree program, with coursework in Aquatic Sciences preferred.
• At least one year of undergraduate studies completed by Summer 2027.
• Previous experience driving and trailering boats required.
• Basic knowledge of limnology and aquatic plant life preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills, and ability to communicate well.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and Outlook required.

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