Laboratory Technician - Paid Internship

The Lee County Hyacinth Control District is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented undergraduate student to join our team as a Laboratory Technician Intern for the Fall 2026 Semester. This hands-on position offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in water quality monitoring, laboratory operations, and aquatic plant research while working alongside experienced environmental professionals. This position offers a flexible 16–20 hour work week to accommodate class schedules, making it an ideal opportunity for students pursuing a degree in a science-related field.

• Washes laboratory glassware and cleans other equipment 
• Assists with the set up of laboratory water quality tests
• Assists with conducting water quality tests 
• Collect water samples from various bodies of water
• Performs a variety of maintenance duties as needed to keep laboratory clean and functioning properly
• Conducts data entry of testing and research data into database
• Periodically conducts quality control checks to ensure the laboratory is following the quality control protocols
• Assist in preparing presentation and workshop materials and assist with coordinating events
• Follow Water Quality Laboratory Quality Control measures while performing work in the laboratory 
• Responsible for wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when necessary
• Communicate with the public in a professional and courteous manner and refer all inquiries outside of area of expertise back to the most appropriate person at the District
• Follow all Districts’ Safety policies and procedures and comply with all local, state and federal regulations at all times
• Responsible for ensuring that all assigned equipment is maintained and reports all needed repairs to Supervisor promptly as needed 
• Other duties and projects as assigned

• A full-time undergraduate student at a college or university majoring in a science field in which laboratory experience would be beneficial
• Proof of full-time enrollment in an accredited college or university program will be required upon offer of employment
• Ability to work a regular schedule of 16 hours per week and be able to work the duration of the applicable semester
• Ability to learn how to operate a variety of boats and other small equipment 
• Must have basic computer skills 
• Must be able to read and understand chemical label instructions and be able to effectively communicate in English
• Must have a valid Class E drivers license and a clean driving record

Work Environment/Physical Requirements: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.   Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.   
Physical Requirements:   Heavy physical activity is occasionally required when in the field including lifting up to fifty pounds, reaching and pulling with arms, stooping, kneeling and bending frequently and occasionally be required to be submerged in bodies of water.  Excellent vision, both close and distance, is regularly required.   
Work Environment:  The work environment varies but normally includes laboratories and office buildings and may occasionally include helicopters, boats, vehicles, mangroves, ponds, canals, rivers and open water.  When in the field, exposure to all types of weather will occur while working outside, e.g., exposure to sun, rain, mud, and insects.   Occasional local travel is required.   Noise level is usually low but occasional exposure to moderate noise levels when around airboats.  Working with and around chemicals, which are stored, handled, applied/used and disposed of according to exact labeling instructions, and fish is required frequently.

Pre-employment background check and drug screen required.

Equal Opportunity Employer; Drug Free Workplace; Veterans Preference to those who qualify. We are an E-VERIFY employer. Please visit our careers page at leecountyhcdfl.gov or leecountymcdfl.gov for more information.