We’re hiring a Facility Operations Specialist. Applications due 12/26/2024.

Engineering and Accessibility Support for NOAA Fisheries and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Fish Passage Guidelines   (Silver Spring, MD or Virtual)

Summary / Description

Sea-run migratory fish need access to both fresh and saltwater habitats to complete their life cycles. We work with dam owners, other agencies, tribes, and partners to provide habitat access via fish passage around dams for species such as salmon, shad, river herring, American eels, sea lamprey, and sturgeon. We also conduct research with partners to better understand migratory fish movement, swimming capability, fish passage technologies, and habitat connectivity needs. In collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), we are updating guidelines for fish passage. This project is critical to providing guidance to federal and state agencies, tribes, industry, and other rights holders for safe, timely, and effective fish passage solutions and will support management, recovery, and conservation of migratory fish and their habitats.

An intern is requested to help the hydropower team with the NOAA and FWS Fish Passage Guidelines. Over the course of the summer intern will:

  • Learn about fish passage, hydropower, and habitat requirements for migratory fish.
  • Support the NOAA and FWS in the development and review of the Fish Passage Guidelines, including
    • Attendance of regular guideline development team meetings 
    • Research specific topics related to fish passage and migratory species 
    • Assist with guideline figure and table development  
    • Assist with administrative tasks (e.g., 508 compliance) 
  • Prepare a short presentation of their work to NMFS Habitat Protection Division.
  • Meet biologists, hydrologists, engineers and others across several different agencies as they do the above.

Skills Required

Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are a necessity! In addition, strong organizational skills, proficiency in oral and written communication, and the ability to work independently are important. Experience with engineering or engineering concepts, and an understanding of or interest in ecology are desirable.

Type of Opportunity

Location

Other Information