About: Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation (Catawba Riverkeeper) was founded in 1997 as the 21st waterkeeper organization in the U.S. Now, proudly part of an international movement that boasts over 400 local organizations, we preserve, protect, and restore the waters of the Catawba-Wateree River Basin for all through education, advocacy, and engagement. Our 5,000 square mile river basin includes over 8,900 miles of waterways across 26 counties in North and South Carolina.
The Riverkeeper Intern – Central Basin (CB) is responsible for helping to execute the Swim Guide Program and assist the Riverkeeper in executing the organizations mission in the Central Basin. In this role, the Intern will be collecting and analyzing water samples for E. coli, working on pollution issues, and researching various water quality related topics.

Responsibilities
• Proudly serve the local community, serving as a brand ambassador, promoting awareness and advocacy for the Catawba Riverkeeper and our mission
• Coordinate with volunteers and other interns to collect, process, and publish weekly bacteria data for our Swim Guide program
• Perform any other duties needed to help drive to our vision, fulfill our mission, and abide by our values
• Analyze pollution discharge data
• Map current and future threats to the water
• Research industry best practices and stay update on new developments
• Research for projects leading to direct policy change
• Assist with waterway patrols and water/land surveys
• Collect samples in the field, prepare them for analysis, run laboratory equipment, and track sources of pollutants
• Exemplifies the Catawba Riverkeeper mission statement and supports staff, departments and leadership in pursuing and achieving goals

Requirements:
• Exhibits a passion for the mission of Catawba Riverkeeper
• Reliable personal transportation and current license
• Successfully pass a standard background review
• Able to lift/move 35 pounds
• Willingness to work in various weather conditions (rain, mud, bugs, etc.)
• Ability to hike through brush and moderate terrain

Education & Experience:
• Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science or related field
• Preferred, but not required, coursework or experience in outdoor recreation, environmental science/conservation, biology, education, or similar field
• Proficiency with Excel or Google Sheets, including data manipulation, summary, and analysis
• Experience with GIS or willingness to learn
• Kayaking experience preferred
• Ability to maintain an organized and detailed workflow with changing variables
• Comfortable working autonomously as well as working in a team environment
• Attention to detail
• Clear, concise communication skills
• Confident self-starter
• Ability to follow detailed instructions

Location:
The Riverkeeper Intern – CB will be based at Catawba Riverkeeper’s Headquarters (the River Room) in McAdenville, NC and will have the opportunity to work on projects throughout our 26-county footprint in North and South Carolina.