Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, but fieldwork is based in Southeast Louisiana. 

Employment Type: 1 Year Fellowship (November 2026 - November 2027)

Level: Fellow

Reports To: Water Resource and Testing Coordinator, Deputy Director

Supports: Policy and Research, TWC clients

Compensation Range: up to $1,200/monthly stipend (based on an average 25 hrs/week worked, with opportunities for overtime available)

Application Priority Consideration Date: Rolling until 10/30/2026

Residential Water Testing Program

Water quality is a critical public health concern, particularly within the lower Mississippi River basin, where most communities rely on the river as their primary drinking water source. Approximately 41% of the continental United States drains into the Mississippi River, making it highly vulnerable to upstream pollution from industrial, municipal, and agricultural runoff. The region’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico also leaves it at risk of saltwater intrusion, further complicating drinking water challenges. Understanding the presence and level of contamination from source to tap is essential for protecting long-term community health and guiding policy responses.

The Water Collaborative of Greater New Orleans, recognizing the pressing need for comprehensive data on water quality concerns in the lower Mississippi River Watershed, is embarking on a Residential Water Quality Testing Program. This program's primary objective is to assess and report the presence and concentrations of pollutants, including PFAS, heavy metals, 1,4-Dioxane, and other hazardous substances, in tap water. We will assess whether these levels exceed EPA health standards and share this vital information with the tested communities, water utilities, state agencies, and community partners. Furthermore, this program seeks to raise public awareness regarding the origins of the contaminants, as well as explore potential links to our past water quality studies (2022 River Testing, 2024 Lead Testing, 2025 Southeast Louisiana Water Quality Study)

The fellowship program is scheduled to begin in October 2026 and run continuously, with dedicated bi-monthly residential water-quality testing trips through October 2027. During this fellowship, participants will work with the Water Resources and Testing Program Coordinator and the larger Water Collaborative team to gain extensive experience in water sample collection and community engagement across 16 parishes in Southeast Louisiana. Join us in making a lasting impact on public health and environmental justice in this vital area!

Targeted parishes: Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, St. Helena, Tangipahoa, Washington, Livingston, St. Tammany, Iberville, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Charles, Jefferson, Orleans, St. Bernard, and Plaquemines

To apply, please fill out this application by [10/30/2026].

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Alexander Miele (alexander@nolawater.org) and Anna Nguyen (anna@nolawater.org).

Areas of Study or Background: Environmental Science, Public Health, Biology, Chemistry, Urban Management, Sustainability & Climate Studies, Environmental Toxicology, and related fields

Activities include but are not limited to:

Background research

Fieldwork and water testing

Community outreach and engagement

Partner outreach and engagement

Internal trainings, check-ins, and meetings

Qualifications:

Interest or knowledge in water, climate, environmental justice, public health, and community engagement.

Strong writing and communication skills.

Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills.

Demonstrated analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to synthesize information from a wide variety of sources.

Strong, action-oriented, and resourceful performance on project deliverables and outputs.

Ability to adapt and be flexible

This role requires providing your own transportation. 

Preference will be given to fellows who:

Are at least 21 years old 

Students pursuing a master's degree or higher, or adults seeking supplementary income and work, are ideal. 

Have knowledge of local and state issues.

Have relationships within the various communities served.

Able to engage community members from diverse backgrounds and education levels.

Can use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Drive, and design programs such as Canva.

Expectations:

Fellows will adhere to the Staff HR Handbook

Fellows may be required to work together and communicate on project needs.

Fellows will travel to neighboring parishes to collect water samples from residents' homes.

Fellows must dress appropriately while doing fieldwork and interacting with customers

Fellows must be on time and willing to adapt to varied working hours.

Fellows must let their Project Lead know in advance if they will be tardy or unavailable due to illness or an emergency.

Benefits:

TWC covers travel and office expenses

Gain hands-on experience in water quality testing, community engagement, and environmental justice to strengthen your professional toolkit.

Connect with environmental professionals and fellow participants to expand your professional network.