Fisheries Intern

Job Description

Fisheries Intern | Tacoma Power

The Tone:
This is an internship at Tacoma Power, located in Salkum, WA. Specifically, this role supports the Generation division at the Cowlitz Hydroelectric Project, approximately 1.5 hours from Tacoma. The successful intern, starting mid-June 2026, will play a crucial part in supporting Tacoma Power’s environmental and regulatory responsibilities by gaining hands-on experience in various fisheries management activities. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable power generation while developing practical skills essential for a career in natural resources.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Limited-duration (3-5 months, up to 40 hours per week)
• Location: Salkum, WA (On-site)
• Pay: $17.23–$20.94 hourly
• Team: Generation Division, working closely with experienced biologists and technicians.
• Mission: This intern will support critical fisheries management and environmental compliance efforts for the Cowlitz Hydroelectric Project.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Fisheries Operations: Directly assist with adult and juvenile trap operations, data collection, and equipment maintenance on the Cowlitz River.
• Public Engagement: Educate visitors at the Cowlitz Visitor Center about fish rearing practices at the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery and hydroelectric power production.
• Research & Data: Contribute to various research projects and manage data sets related to fish handling, identification, marking, transport, spawning ground surveys, and fish passage monitoring.
• Reporting & Communication: Prepare and present both oral and written reports, and interact with city employees and stakeholders regarding work assignments.
• Community Support: Contribute to programs that support local natural resource management and community engagement, including assisting with special events and functions.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Early Career, requiring a High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience: One year of post-high school training.
• Skills: Data collection and entry, equipment maintenance, public education, written and oral reporting, data organization, and quality assurance.