What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intern III - Environmental position at Trinity River Authority of Texas?
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Potential for full-time employment
POSITION SUMMARY
This position is an entry-level, temporary/seasonal Environmental Scientist Intern (40 hours per week) within the Technical Services and Basin Planning (TSBP) department at the Trinity River Authority of Texas (TRA). The position is primarily based in Euless, Texas, with up to two days per week at TRA Headquarters in South Arlington.
The position will assist staff in a variety of environmental field and office assignments supporting basin planning, water quality monitoring, and watershed science initiatives. Tasks and functions are generally routine in nature, and any deviations or decisions from routine are typically assisted or approved by upper-level staff.
Work is generally performed during standard business hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday), though additional time or modified schedules may be required to support field activities.
The examples of work listed in this class specification are not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The class specifications are intended to be a general indication of duties and levels of difficulty and responsibility common to all positions in the class and, therefore, are not all-inclusive of all work which may be required.
NOTE: This position is intended for seasonal part-time employees. Employee benefits for vacation, sick leave, pension, hospitalization, life insurance, and other benefits provided to permanent employees of the Authority are not provided to employees hired for this position. It is stipulated that the seasonal part-time status should not extend longer than three to nine (3–9) months.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
DUTIES MAY INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
- Assist with environmental field sampling, including water quality, biological, topographic, and bathymetric data collection under a variety of field conditions
- Perform calibration, preparation, maintenance, and mobilization/demobilization of scientific equipment and field kits
- Process and quality check (QA/QC) environmental datasets to ensure accuracy and usability
- Support data management, analysis, and documentation efforts for watershed planning and environmental projects
- Assist with the development of technical figures, maps, and summaries for internal use
- Operate GPS/GNSS equipment and support geospatial data collection and processing using Esri software
- Perform spatial analysis and assist in the development of cartographic products
- Collaborate with TSBP staff and other departments to support basin-wide environmental programs
- Perform other duties as assigned
WORK LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not regularly provide work leadership or full personnel management to any employees.
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
N/A
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
At least 1 year of college coursework in environmental science, biology, geography, engineering, or a related field.
EXPERIENCE
Relevant coursework or academic experience in environmental science, water resources, GIS, or related disciplines.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
A valid Texas driver's license is required.
KNOWLEDGE
Basic knowledge of environmental science, water resources, or related field.
Basic understanding of mathematical calculations and data handling.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and detailed instructions
- Ability to collect, organize, and evaluate environmental data
- Basic proficiency with spreadsheets, graphs, and data visualization tools
- Ability to evaluate situations and make decisions with guidance from supervisors
- Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
GUIDANCE RECEIVED
Receives ongoing detailed supervision and follows established procedures. Any situation requiring deviation from standard practice is referred to a supervisor or more senior staff.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This position includes a combination of office and field work. Field activities may involve exposure to adverse weather conditions including heat, wind, and direct sunlight, as well as uneven or rough terrain. Work may be performed from boats, bridges, or within stream channels, including wading in water up to waist-deep.
Field and operational activities may involve exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, and other environmental conditions. Work may require standing for extended periods, walking long distances, climbing, and working in outdoor environments.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Office equipment and Microsoft Office Suite. Field equipment including water quality sondes, sampling gear, GPS/GNSS units, boats, flow meters, and other scientific instruments. Use of PPE and other safety equipment as required.