INTRODUCTION:
Racine Public Health Department -Laboratory is a learning institution. The overarching goal of this project is to conduct regulatory surface water quality monitoring and annual beach sanitary surveys at public recreational beaches in SE WI to identify pollution sources and/or conditions that may have an adverse impact on human and environmental health. This is a WDNR sponsored multi-agency/multi-jurisdictional effort extending from St. Frances (Milwaukee County) to Pleasant Prairie, WI (Kenosha County).

POSITION PURPOSE:

To ensure the sustainability of coastal and inland water resources as well as reducing public health risk associated with waterborne illness in the context of recreation through the collection of data on physical attributes, environmental conditions and potential pollution sources capable of adversely impacting water quality, including municipal infrastructure, avian populations, algal blooms and hydro-meteorological conditions. Delivery of annual regulatory monitoring data and beach sanitary survey reports to the WDNR and/or USEPA.

This position is May 20,2024 - August 30,2024 (15 weeks). Approximately 20-25 hours/week (M - F) but schedule may vary based on need. Offices closed May 27, June 19 and July 4, 2024. Paid internship. Hourly rate is $19.00. Mileage will be reimbursed at $0.67/mile for all work related travel.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Collect surface water, storm water and sediment samples
• Collect hydro-meteorological data, e.g. wind speed/direction and rainfall
• Utilize field and lab-based equipment/techniques to quantify chemical and microbial constituents, e.g. E. coli, turbidity, conductivity and pH
• Conduct routine and annual beach sanitary surveys utilizing the USEPA Beach Sanitary Survey Tool for the Great Lakes
• Maintain internal and external databases
• Calibrate/maintain benchtop and field equipment
• Prepare media and reagents
• Perform GIS mapping and site photo-documentation

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Proficient use of Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat
• Strong organizational and time management skills; detail oriented
• Strong data entry and database management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Valid driver's license/reliable vehicle/minimum required car insurance
• Ability to carry 35 pounds and work under inclement weather conditions
• Ability to walk/wade/swim in an open water/Great Lakes environment

• Enrollment in engineering, freshwater sciences, geosciences, biology, environmental science, or natural resource management program
• Previous experience with field sampling, basic laboratory skills, coastal processes, water quality parameters, and water safety

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Standing, walking, sitting and stooping.
• Kneeling, crouching, climbing, balancing and bending/twisting.
• Reaching, lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling (up to 35 lbs.)
• Handling, grasping, fingering, filing, typing and writing.