This is a great opportunity for a college undergraduate or graduate student, who has a demonstrated interest in learning how to culture freshwater mussels at the cooperative Virginia Fisheries and Aquatic Wildlife Center at the Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery, for the purpose of conservation and recovery, to work 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.

To learn more about the Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery located in Charles City, Virginia, go to https://dwr.virginia.gov/vbwt/sites/harrison-lakenational-fish-hatchery-u-s-fish-and-wildlife-service/.

DWR values Diversity, Equity 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 successful incumbent will conduct daily monitoring and maintenance of mussel propagation systems, daily cleaning and maintenance of mussel rearing systems, care of host fish used for propagation, periodic sampling of propagated freshwater mussels, processing mussels for release, collection of broodstock mussels and host fish, release and assistance with monitoring mussels. The incumbent will be required to travel by boat on Harrison Lake frequently, under varying climatic conditions. Incumbent must be comfortable in and around water.

The 12-week internship is from May 16, 2025, thru August 1, 2025, and will average 30-40 hours per week, possibly including some weekends.

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/requirement/stepsto-requirement/. Online and classroom options are available.

Opportunities for Professional Development
=> Learn mussel collection and survey techniques;
=> Learn fish collection and sampling techniques;
=> Learn about freshwater mussel propagation and culture;
=> Learn proper fish handling;
=> Learn water quality sampling techniques;
=> Learn boat launching, driving and navigational skills; and
=> Network with other DWR Interns and learn from shared summer work
experiences.

Minimum Qualifications

=> Applicant must be at least 18 years of age and be enrolled as a college undergraduate or graduate, 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/I-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;
=> Able to work independently, while following supervisor’s instructions and guidance;
=> Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel); and
=> Have the ability to earn a DWR Safe Boating Certificate.
=> Familiarity with basic water chemistry/use of probes; and
=> Familiarity with kayaks, canoes and/or boats.

Additional Considerations

=> Student working towards a undergraduate or graduate degree in Wildlife Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management, or related field;
=> DWR Safe Boating Certificate.