Internships

Jump straight to internship postings

Why Should You Look For an Internship?

Internships provide an opportunity for students in the Environmental Studies program to get real hands-on experience working in a field they are passionate about - and get class credit for doing it! There is no better way to find out if a certain career path is for you than to try it out. Internships are often the beginning of successful careers for students as well. In the 1998-99 Recruitment Trends Survey completed by Michigan State University Collegiate Employment Research Institute, employers were asked what they wanted to see when they evaluated college candidates for employment. Employers gave highest importance to work-related experiences such as internships, summer work and co-ops (from CAM Report, 2/99).

What Past Participants Have to Say

"Overall I feel that my continued involvement with CEP has been one of the most rewarding and educational experiences of my whole life. Not only have I learned first hand what kinds of things I can do with a degree in Environmental Studies, but I feel responsibility and first hand involvement in some of the major occurrences set to take place here in the near future in regards to renewable energies and the state of Kansas. Aside from what I learned in consideration to my course of study, some other things I gained from this experience were very useful lessons on working in a professional environment. " (Read entire report here)

-- 2008 Internship Program Participant with the Climate and Energy Project at the Land Insitute in Salina, KS

"St. Patrick's Day 2007, the first day of my internship for the City of Lawrence's Waste Reduction and Recycling division, and what is the task at hand? It was to ride down Mass Street in a mixed-paper recycling truck in the parade. I would have to say that this was the best first day at a new job ever...I have learned many things during my internship and subsequent employment with the city...I feel like this job has been a great learning experience, and that I am constantly given the opportunity to learn something new. For example, after our Christmas party last week, I learned that I am the worst bowler in our division!" (Read entire report here)

-- 2008 Internship Program Participant with City of Lawrence Public Works in Lawrence, KS

"From my supervisors, I learned how to live within the green lifestyle comfortably. We maintained this lifestyle by using composting toilets, wood-burning stoves, travelling with vegetable oil as fuel and eating localy grown fruits and vegetables. Because I assisted in giving Plymoth State University students information, I learned how to educate others on environmental issues and communicate better in a more formal setting... After spending time in the wilderness by yourself, it makes you appreciate things that you would normally not notice. It gave me a feeling of awareness tha the world is made up of much more than just human beings. I realized that I must share certain natural resources with not only other people, but animals and wildlife as well."

-- 2008 Internship Program Participant with Squam Lakes Association in Holderness, NH

Internships with the Environmental Studies Program

Internship opportunities will be posted on this page as we receive word of them. For further internship opportunities, try visiting any links to the right column to get details on current openings.

Additionally, Environmental Studies majors can receive academic credit for internships by enrolling in EVRN 490, an independent study course specifically for internships.

The following forms are needed for enrollment in EVRN 490:

 

Contact Anna Archer, Internship Coordinator, to get the process started, at a8archer@ku.edu. Please read through the Environmental Studies Internship Program Guidelines carefully. Complete the Internship Program Application Form and return to the EVRN Office, 252 Snow Hall.

NEW: Is your internship with a non-profit organization? If it is, you can also apply to begin your KU Service Learning Certification. Service Learning is a credit-bearing, educational experience in which students participate in an organized service activity that meets identified community needs and reflects on the service activity in such a way as to gain further understanding of course content, a broader appreciation of the discipline, and an enhanced sense of civic responsibility. (Plus, you get to put in on your resumé!) Find more information at the Service Learning website.

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Internship Postings

City of Lawrence GIS Internship Position

A GIS Internship Position with the City of Lawrence, Department of Utilities is now accepting applications. All applications are due March 1st, 2012. The position is paid with full-time hours being offered during the summer months and part-time hours available during the school year. Use the link below to find out more details about this opportunity.

Lawrence GIS Internship Information

SUMMER 2012 - Environmental Design Blogger Internship

Do you have a unique specialty in the field of environmental design? Do you currently live in a town or city that has not/or is currently not being covered by another blogger? Have you successfully managed social media platforms? Do you have a passion for writing and want to learn how to successfully blog? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Global Site Plans wants your application.

Global Site Plans is seeking talented students and professionals in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, urban planning, and specialties within these environmental design fields. As a bi-weekly blogger, you would speak to topics related to your fields of expertise, but specific to your location.

For more information about this internship, click on the link below.

Environmental Design Blogger

Applications are due February 29, 2012.

SUMMER 2012 - U.S. Census Bureau

Demographic Directorate Summer Internship Program

Paid, ten-week program starting June 2012.

Click on the link below for more information about applying!

Summer Internship Program

SUMMER 2012 - The Nature Conservancy

Diversity Summer Internship Program

Internship position lasts from May 29 - August 10, 2012

All applications will be notified of the final selection before mid-March, the program is paid and lasts 10 weeks. For more information about how to apply, click on the link below!

TNC Summer Internship Information

SUMMER 2012 - The Cornucopia Institute

The Cornucopia Institute is a non-profit group based in Wisconsin working on food and farm policy issues concerning sustainable and organic agriculture.  Its internship program, in effort to build more relationships and empower more individuals in the good food movement, is an opportunity for individuals to gain important experience and direction in the budding-careers and to offer support to our mission and small staff.  Individuals interested in helping with our research and investigations of organic and sustainable agriculture and food practices, and who possess a background in business, political science, information technologies, and/or biology and food sciences, are encouraged to apply.

Send resume and letter of interest, or questions, to cultivate@cornucopia.org

The Cornucopia Institute, Internship Program

Spring 2012 - Mother Earth News Internship

Editorial Internship with Mother Earth News now available, apply by December 1, 2011.

Mother Earth News - the original guide to living wisely- is seeking interns for its magazine and website. An internship with Mother Earth News offers an excellent opportunity to work and learn from experienced editors, writers, and media professionals. You will also gain valuable experience in producing a national magazine and its Web content. Mother Earth News is North America's leading environmental magazine with more than 1 million readers. Since 1970, it has served readers with a passion for conscientious living and self-reliance, focusing on alternative energy, organic gardening, homesteading, sustainable farming, green building, transportation, natural health and more.

Specific duties for this paid, part-time internship include research, writing, proofreading and clerical responsibilities. Internships are only available on-site in our Topeka office. We prefer applicants with education and/or experience in any of the following: journalism, publishing, writing, editing, and environmental science or policy.

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, clips (if applicable) and your schedule availability to Jennifer Kongs, Assistant Editor; MOTHER EARTH NEWS; 1503 SW 42nd St; Topeka, KS 66609; or send materials by email to jkongs@MotherEarthNews.com

Intern at Operation Wildlife!

The Operation Wildlife Intern program is designed to provide a unique learning opportunity to students who are pursuing career opportunities in biology, zoology, or other related fields. Interns serve as wildlife caretakers and learn animal husbandry skills and basic wildlife rehabilitation for a diverse range of animal species. This program is designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world biological experience. Internships require 20-30 hours hours per week to complete a total of 480 hours; it can be completed for college credit. Go to www.owl-online.org to learn more.

Click here to learn more about Operation Wildlife Internships!

SUMMER 2012, Internship Opportunity!

CDC-Collegiate Leaders in Environmental Health

This is a 10-week summer environmental internship, for undergraduate students who are passionate about the environment, interested in human health, and curious about how they are linked.

Interns will participate in environmental health projects, interact with federal officials and scientists, and visit important environmental health sites in and around Atlanta. Other activities include "brown-bag" lunches with CDC staff, as well as attending lectures from prominent environmental health leaders in the Atlanta area. In addition, interns will be able to attend the many seminars offered by CDC during the summer.

Click here to learn more about this internship!

Application deadline: February 1, 2012.

Minuteman Press -Fall 2011

Minuteman Press is looking for a student to start right away and intern for the months of October and November! Minuteman Press is the first Sustainable Green Printer (SGP) in Kansas. Environmental Studies majors should contact Dee Bisel, owner, to find out more about this green opportunity. Email dee@minutemanlawrence.com to learn more.

Also, see attached files for more details.

Minuteman Press - Printing - Copying - Lawrence, KS, 66049

Intern 2011

Mother Earth News - Internship

Fall 2011

Mother Earth News is hiring interns for the Fall Semester. This is a great opportunity for students interested in mixing journalism and environmental studies. Mother Earth News hires interns for this position every semester, and the summer. They're located in Topeka but have carpools available for people once they get in and know their schedule. It's part-time, paid, real world experience-- and in some cases can lead to full-time opportunities later on. Find out more information about this internship and how to apply online.

Internships with Mother Earth News

Heritage Environmental Studies Full-time Summer Intern

Directs and assist with household hazardous materials segregation for recycling, reuse and/or proper disposal. Assists in characterizing materials. Assist in the segregation of chemicals byhazard class; pakcing compativble materials in appropriate containers and perparing for transportation; completing necessary paperwork per job. Verify container marking and labeling per regulation requirements. Determines and loads supplies needed for job completion and travels to various industry, laboratory, and school sites to perform lab pack services. Assists with proper placarding and load segregation requirements when transporting hazardous materials. Develop good client relations by effectively communicating with customers. Introductory knowledge of hazard materials management/assessment. performs all other duties as assigned.

Heritage Environmental Studies pdf

EPA Summer Internship Opportunities

As STEP employees, students will actively support and promote the goals of the organization in a positive, cooperative manner that leads to ncreased productivity and improved customer service. Students will demonstrate initiative in participating and supporting team efforts within the Region. Deadline to Apply: March 22nd

EPA Summer Internship Opportunity pdf

Earth Corps Field Environmental Stewardship Course

Earth Corps is a selective field-based program that offers motivated, environmentally conscious students the opportunity to live and learn in the incredible natural classroom of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. The program integrates key lessons in environmental studies with the completion of a critical environmental restoration project. Run by the Rocky Mountain Field Institute in partnership with the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, Earth Corps attracts exceptional students from across the nation and the world to participate in this unique service learning opportunity. Deadline to Apply: March 23rd

Earth Corps Field Enviornmental Stewardship Course pdf

City of Lawrence, Engineering / GIS Internship

The City of Lawrence seeks an intern to work part-time (April through May) and full-time summer (June through August 2010) for the Utilities Department Engineering Division. The intern will assist the Engineering Division staff with GIS and Civil Engineering tasks related to water and wastewater utility projects.  This internship is for students interested in Geographic Information Systems, Civil Engineering, Cartography or related fields. Assignments may include, but not be limited to; field survey utilizing GPS equipment, field data acquisition & analysis in support of project design & GIS mapping functions, construction plan review, construction observation, engineering related calculations & other support functions, updating GIS utility layers, hydraulic modeling of water distribution and sanitary sewer collections systems, and database creation of spatial and non-spatial datasets.

Engineering / GIS Internship pdf

Schlumberger, Lawrence Technology Center

Located in Lawrence, Kansas, is the leader in the design and manufacture of highly engineered power cable products for the petroleum production industry. We currently have an opportunity for a Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Specialist. The position has a high emphasis on Environmental.

HSE Specialist Environmental Information Sheetpdf

National Network for Environmental Management Studies (NNEMS)

A comprehensive fellowship program designed to provide undergraduate and graduate students with practical research opportunities and experiences. The projects are narrow in scope to allow students to complete the research by working full-time during the summer and/or part-time during the school year. Research fellowships are available in:

  • Environmental Policy, Regulation, and Law;
  • Environmental Management and Administration;
  • Environmental Science; and
  • Environmental Science; Public Relations and Communications.


NNEMS fellows receive a stipend at a level determined by the student's level of education and the duration and location of the research project. Fellowships are offered to undergraduate and graduate students. Students must meet certain eligibility criteria.
The application deadline for the NNEMS Program is in the winter of each year with all projects beginning the following summer. Complete application information and materials can be obtained:

  • in the Career Service Center (or equivalent) of colleges and universities;
  • on the NNEMS Web site; or
  • by writing to Ginger Potter, NNEMS Program, US EPA (1704A), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20460.

DOE Scholars Program

U.S. Department of Energy
*Deadline to Apply is January 31st, 2011

How To Apply:

Visit http://orise.orau.gov/doescholars to apply.

Requested Documents:

  • Resume
  • Other Documents

Description

Are you interested in participating in the most recent scientific research and development? Would you like to gain experience in discovering solutions to power and securing America’s future, specifically in energy security, nuclear security, scientific discovery and innovation, environmental responsibility and management excellence?

The Department of Energy Scholars Program offers summer internships with stipends of up to $650 per week depending on academic status to undergraduates, graduate students and post graduates at accredited institutes of higher education. Majors accepted include: engineering; physical sciences; environmental sciences; computer science and information technology; physics; program management; math; statistics; safety and health; accounting and finance; law; and other related discipline areas.

Requirements include: U.S. Citizenship; 18 years of age or older; and a cumulative GPA of 2.90/4.00.

Internships provide participants with the opportunity to conduct hands-on research while showcasing their education, talent and skills. Interns will also have a unique opportunity to explore the options for federal careers with DOE.

Yellowstone National Park Lodges Summer 2011 Positions
*Applications Accepted Until March 1st, 2011

Description
Yellowstone National Park Lodges operated by Xanterra Parks and Resorts provides services for the more than three million visitors who come to Yellowstone National Park each year. We are in the guest service business and our job is to help guests experience Yellowstone. Up front, we help guest plan their visits and register them for their rooms, cabins, and campsites. We serve them in dining rooms, cafeterias, and fast food shops. We help them select a souvenir of their stay and experience the park through activities such as interpretive tours, horseback rides, fishing trips, and boat tours. Behind the scenes, we clean hotel rooms and cabins, prepare food, and wash dishes. We have opportunities in a variety of departments for people with all levels of experience and backgrounds, including management positions. Not all of the jobs are glamorous and you will work hard. You will also have the privilege to call Yellowstone "home" for awhile and have ready access to the amazing outdoor recreational opportunities that the Park has to offer including hiking, backpacking, fishing, geyser gazing, wildlife watching, etc. We believe in what we do and every employee contributes to the experience our guests have. Come join our team!

Qualifications vary by position. We have numerous positions available from entry level to management. Specifics can be found on our website www.yellowstonejobs.com. If you choose to apply for a position other than an entry level position you should have some form of related experience or education. Ideal candidates are able to begin work in early May or continue into September. (Students wishing to work only during the summer months should apply early)


Location

City
Yellowstone National Park
State/Province
Wyoming
Country
United States
Job Function(s)
Agriculture/Natural Resources/Environment, Communication, Hospitality/Travel, Other
Desired Major(s)
All Majors

*log into KU Career Connections to apply as well

Park Ranger Naturalist Intern

Grand Teton National Park
*Accepting Applications Until February 28th, 2011

Description
Working in the field of natural history interpretation consists of positions that deal directly with park visitors. After completing a training session, the work involves answering questions at visitor centers and providing trip planning help at an information desk, researching, preparing, and presenting short guided walks and talks, presenting evening campfire talks, leading children's programs, providing information to individuals you may encounter on trails or overlooks and completing a wide variety of special projects. Work in other divisions such as administration, resource management, visitor protection, and maintenance may be available to round out the internship experience.

Interns work 5 days/week 8 hrs/day and receive a compensation of $7.25/hr. Housing will be provided with rent deducted from pay.

The application deadline for summer internships is March 1. This position begins May 23, 2011 and runs at least 14 weeks through August 27, 2011. For additional information call Andrew Langford at 307-739-3401.
Salary Level
$7.25/hr. Housing will be provided with rent deducted from pay.
Contact Information
Andrew Langford
PO Drawer 170
Moose, Wyoming 83012
United States
Email: andrew_langford@nps.gov
(307)739-3401

*log into KU Career Connections to apply as well

Summer Research Scholar:
Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation
Application Deadline: February 4th, 2011

Qualifications:
Noble Scholar candidates must:
• Be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in a college or university within the United States, such program resulting in the award of a baccalaureate or associate’s degree;
• Have completed their sophomore year (at least 56 credit hours) with a declared major in a plant science, life science, chemistry or computer science field with appropriate course work;
• Be a US citizen or permanent resident of the US; and
• Be capable of working 40 hours per week for 10 weeks.

Duration: May 31 – August 5, 2011.

Salary: $12.00 per hour (minimum).

Job Description:
The Scholar Program gives each participating student-Scholar an opportunity to interact in a plant science-related research environment, develop practical research skills and build relationships with scientific mentors.

Program:
Scholars are paired with a scientist-mentor from the Foundation’s plant molecular biology research group (Plant Biology Division) or the Foundation’s translational and application research group (Forage Improvement Division). Placement is based on the Scholar’s research preference and educational experience. No research experience is required.
Each mentor will design a research project specifically tailored to their Scholar, such project ultimately being refined through an interaction between the mentor and his/her Scholar.
Scholars are integrated into a laboratory setting. Scholars will participate in all regular laboratory activities, including group meetings, seminars and research group discussions. At the conclusion of the program, Scholars will prepare a presentation concerning their research project. Scholar presentations will be held in the Foundation’s Kruse Auditorium near the conclusion of the program. Mentors will assist Scholars in developing their presentations.

Program Stipend:
Noble Scholars earn approximately $4,800 for the 10-week program (taxes will be deducted from this amount automatically). Noble Scholars work 40 hours per week and payments are made bi-weekly.

Program Housing:
The Noble Foundation will provide accommodations for all out-of-area Noble Scholars. Housing that is provided will be considered a taxable fringe benefit

Applying
Applicants are requested to apply online by completing the application and submitting a copy (s) of college transcripts, contact information for one reference (excluding relatives), and a statement explaining interest in the position and career goals. If applicant does not have the ability to upload the additional documents they can be faxed to (580) 224-6240 (please include position number), but the application should be completed and submitted online.

Interested applicants should apply online at http://www.noble.org/SummerScholar. The application deadline is February 4, 2011.

The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc.
Human Resources Department
Position Number: AD-T071-268
P.O. Box 2180
Ardmore, OK 73402


Olson Fellowship/Intern
 
Application Deadline: June 6th, 2011
Description

Olson Fellowship/Intern

Rocky Mountain Nature Association
Application Deadline: June 6th, 2011

Description
Rocky Mountain Nature Association (RMNA) seeks an intern of exceptional ability for the Olson Family Fellowship. In 2006, the Olson family of Boulder, Colorado began funding this fellowship to enable students and recent graduates to serve in a nonprofit while exploring career options in environmental education and the nonprofit sectors. This is a unique, entry-level position the Rocky Mountain Nature Association, a supporting, non-profit organization begins January 3, 2011 and concludes May 29, 2011. It is recommended that the candidate be actively pursuing or have already completed a degree program and has a strong interest in environmental related studies, interpretation, education, environmental stewardship, or environmental education. In addition, experience volunteering for or working with non-profit organizations and an interest in public relations and/or marketing is desired.

Required Traits:

  • Dedicated to child-centered education with the ability to also lead adult audiences
  • Demonstrated ability to think and act creatively
  • Adept with communication-both speaking and writing - for diverse audiences and mediums required
  • Strong problem solving skills with the ability to organize ideas and information
  • Demonstrated ability to be flexible and independent with assignments and duties
  • Computer literacy/experience with Power Point and desk-top publishing preferred
  • Enthusiasm, a warm disposition, and the ability to handle the stress of children in stride Internship

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and lead interactive winter youth and school group nature activities and programs
  • Assist with program development, planning and implementation for Rocky Mountain Field Seminars
  • Complete projects that may include advertising, basic marketing, graphic design and/or custom program requests
  • Teach nature-based programs to diverse audiences (e.g., K-12 students, youth/adult outreach groups)
  • Schedule and present informational programs about educational opportunities at RMNP
  • Assist in leading teacher education workshops
  • Draft news releases and feature articles This job is suitable for graduates who have a major in education, environmental education, political science, social science, business.
Salary Level
$900.00/month + housing

Contact Information

Rachel Balduzzi
Estes Park, Colorado

rachel.balduzzi@rmna.org
970 586 3262

American Conservation Corps Crew

Rocky Mountain Nature Association
*Applications Accepted Until June 6th, 2011

Description
From May 23rd through August 8th, 2011, ACC crews will work in Rocky Mountain National Park and in US National Forests. Crews are limited to teams of six to maximize team-building, personal growth, and networking opportunities. As part of the ACC, you will earn $4,400.00 for 11 weeks of education and work filled with diverse experiences in four general areas: TRAILS - Work with professional trail crews to maintain, restore, and build trails.  RESOURCE MANAGEMENT - Work with exotic plant and re-vegetation crews in the field. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING - Learn from professional scientists in wildlife research and learn from experts about environmental stewardship, leadership, natural history, careers, the roles of non-profits in supporting public lands, and more. BUILDING AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE - Help National Park and Forest Service crews maintain campgrounds, picnic areas, visitor centers, and historic structures.

Salary Level
$4,400.00 for 11 weeks + housing

Contact Information

Rachel Balduzzi
Estes Park, Colorado
rachel.balduzzi@rmna.org
970 586 3262

 

Westar Energy Environmental Services Internship

Deadline: Feb 21, 2011

Division:  Human Resources

Location: 800 Kansas - Lower Level-West, Topeka, KS

Pay: $12.00 - $18.00 per hour

Job Description:
Supports the corporate-level Environmental Services and Biology Conservation Departments in the implementation of environmental compliance programs company-wide. Specific programs may include water and waste, distribution power delivery, air and conservation. Miscellaneous duties needed for other programs may be assigned as required.

Requirements:
A student actively pursuing a Bachelor's degree in engineering, environmental studies, life science or other related field. A sophomore or junior level student with Microsoft or equivalent software skills is preferred.

Must be comfortable with computers and new technology and have working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications. Must be professional, dependable, self-motivated and have excellent organizational and problem solving skills. Must be able to communicate effectively with program managers, co-workers and other required contacts.

 How To Apply
Please go to www.WestarEnergy.com and click on the careers link to apply
Must apply online to be considered.

A resume is also requested.

 

Pollution Prevention Summer Internship

Deadline: January 31st, 2011

The Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute, 133 Ward Hall, is accepting student applications for its Energy Efficiency/Pollution Prevention Intern Program for the Summer of 2011. We have 5-7 positions (in engineering or natural science disciplines) that we need to fill by April 2011.  Applications for the program will be accepted through January 31, 2011.  Students must be a junior, senior, or graduate student by end of May 2011.  We now have an on-line registration to streamline the application process. 

Highlights of the program include: 

  • $15/hour during the 11-week summer program 
  • Week-long pollution prevention training, with practical exercises and hands-on training 
  • Opportunity to work with industry on real-world pollution prevention and engineering projects 
  • Case study presentations to representatives of numerous agencies and departments, all of which are prospective employers
  • Applicants must be interested in any of the following areas: water conservation, chemical processing, manufacturing processes, water treatment, solid waste, biological waste treatment, energy, HVAC, compressors, and energy and environmental auditing. 
How to Apply: For more information, go to www.sbeap.org and select "E2/P2 interns" along the left-hand side, or call the P2 Intern Program Coordinator at 800-578-8898, or 532-4998. 

David A. Carter 
Pollution Prevention Specialist 
Pollution Prevention Institute 
Kansas State University 
133 Ward Hall 
Manhattan, KS  66506-2508 


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