Voluntariado: MERI en Maine!

The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), a nonprofit organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill a Watershed Research Internship position for the field season 2009. This is a full-time position requiring a commitment from early April through October.

MERI is a scientific research and education organization dedicated to understanding the impacts of environmental pollutants on wildlife and human health, and to interpreting this information to a broad audience. Current projects include a watershed monitoring initiative, phytoplankton (red tide) monitoring, and a long-term eco-toxicological investigation of northwestern Atlantic harbor seals.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine or freshwater ecology, environmental and natural sciences, or chemistry to gain practical experience in the field and in the lab. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in environmental monitoring and a commitment to the mission of the organization.

Primary Job Responsibility:

This position will involve assisting the Research Department with the implementation of the Blue Hill Bay Watershed Monitoring Project. Primary responsibilities will include water quality sampling at fresh and marine water sites, water chemistry analysis in the field and in the lab, data entry and analysis. Additional duties may include assisting with phytoplankton monitoring and research dissemination/outreach activities.

Job Description:

* Conduct in-situ water quality monitoring using a Data Sonde multiprobe and sample collection at marine and freshwater sites throughout the Blue Hill Bay Watershed

* Perform lab chemistries and bacterial culture preparation and analysis following established standard operating procedures and quality assurance protocols

* Assist with data entry in the field and in the lab and updating of laboratory records and logs

* Assist with preparation of result summaries, reports, fact sheets and Power Point presentations

* Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public

* Perform other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required

Reports to: Watershed Project Coordinator and Research Staff.

Qualifications:

Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree in ecology, environmental sciences, marine sciences, chemistry or a related major (Juniors and Seniors may also apply). Field and laboratory experience, good writing skills and a basic knowledge of statistics is required. Experience with spectrophotometers and multi-parameter probes, knowledge of habitat assessment techniques and familiarity with environmental sampling and monitoring methods is preferred.

Applicants must also be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions, be comfortable working ona marine research vessel and be available to work occasional nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel required; photography, ArcGIS, statistics (SPSS), and graphics experience is desirable but not necessary.

Applicant must possess a valid driver's license and a good driving record.

Time Requirements: April 20th - October 30th. Full-time (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director.

Compensation:

Stipend and housing in Blue Hill. Housing is located within walking distance to Marine Environmental Research Institute.

To Apply:

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit by e-mail or mail a current CV and three references to: scromwell@meriresearch.org

Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI)

PO Box 1652, 55

Main Street

Blue Hill, ME 04616

Tel: (207) 374-2135

Fax: (207) 374-2931

Website: www.meriresearch.org

MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Simone Cromwell

Watershed Project Coordinator

Marine Environmental Research Institute

55 Main Street, PO Box 1652

Blue Hill, ME 04614
207.374.8980