blog navigation

NRES Career Information
Resources related to careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences

blog posts

  • Summer Internship, Illinois EPA - Des Plaines, IL (due 2/22)

    Internship with the Bureau of Water - Northern Monitoring Unit in Des Plaines, IL.

  • Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator: Fulltime, Charleston IL

    Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator

    Grand Prairie Friends

    The Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator is a mission-critical, hands-on land management leader who plays a central role in advancing GPF’s conservation outcomes across East-Central Illinois. With a primary focus on Warbler Ridge Conservation Area (~80% of work time), the Coordinator will intermittently work across all GPF sites across the 130-mile service area across (8) counties in Central Illinois. This position partners closely with the Natural Areas Manager to implement land management plans, lead stewardship operations, and ensure ecological integrity across GPF’s diverse portfolio of prairies, savannas, forests, and conservation lands.

    Position Dates: Full Time, Year Round

    Apply by: February 28, 2026

    Compensation: Starting salary of $50,000 

    Microsoft Word - GPF Natural areas Stew Coordinator Job Description 

    Job Listing | GrandPrairieFriends 

  • Summer Research Assistant: Wisconsin

    • Summer Research Assistant

      The Savanna Institute invites applications for a Summer Research Assistant to help with research and field work in agroforestry systems.  

    • Most work will occur in and around Spring Green, WI.

    • Hours: 30-40 hours per week for up to 12 weeks

    • Location: Madison, WI; Spring Green, WI; or surrounding region

    • Start Date: May - early June (exact date negotiable)

    • Salary: $18/hr

    • This position is not eligible for the Institute’s benefits package

    • This position reports to the Cropping Systems Scientist

  • Natural Areas Internship: Charleston IL

    NATURAL AREAS INTERNSHIP

    Grand Prairie Friends

    The Natural Areas Internship is designed for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in ecological management. Candidates with experience or interest in natural resources, or already attending college in programs related to natural resources, are encouraged to apply.

    Position Dates: May–August, start dates may vary; alternating weekends/ holidays required.

    Apply by: APPLY ASAP- Positions are filled as applications are received.

    Compensation: Starting pay $15.00/hour (based on experience) 

    More info: Microsoft Word - GPF Natural Areas Internship Job Description 

    Job Listing | GrandPrairieFriends 

  • Great Lakes Climate Corp Various positions

    Crew Members on the GLCC Wildfire Risk Reduction Crew will be trained to perform critical climate adaptation work including wildfire risk assessments on structures and creating defensible space around them using Firewise methodology. The crew will visit homes, camps, or other structures in the wildland/urban interface to meet with landowners

  • Various Illinois Summer Technician Positions with The Nature Conservancy

    The Nature Conservancy in Illinois is seeking summer Technicians across multiple locations to help manage and restore tallgrass prairies, wetlands, woodlands, and more. Some locations may include extension options into the fall. The Technician position provides opportunities to learn about plants and animals and natural areas management with an emphasis on ecological restoration including interesting, educational, and challenging outside work

  • NRES Summer Research and Management Internship 2026

    Current undergraduates in NRES are eligible to apply for this summer internship to gain experience in both research and management of natural resources. Tasks conducted in this position may include forest health research and monitoring, invasive species research and management, monitoring and managing for wildlife, forest restoration, and assisting with general management tasks. Opportunities will be available for developing a range of skills, including training in safe use of herbicides, chainsaw use, and other equipment such as tractors, UTVs, and sprayers among others. Interns will work with research specialists and field staff to design and implement a research project. 

  • Bug 2 School: Collaborative insect ecology research (3/6/26)

    Bug2School is a multi-generational co-learning alliance between university researchers, college students, teachers and school-age students. We perform coordinated, collaborative ecology experiments together using school gardens as a study system. As we practice the scientific method together, we cultivate STEM skills, mentorship, healthy eating habits, and community!

  • Environmental Restoration Technician – Seasonal (due 3/15/26)

    We are looking for a motivated and dependable Environmental Restoration Technician to join our dynamic team for the 2026 season. If you're passionate about natural resources and eager to gain hands-on experience in ecological restoration, this is an excellent opportunity for you!

  • Summer Interns, Aspen Institute - Washington, DC (due 1/30/26)

    Just showed up on my LinkedIn feed and due TOMORROW!

  • Michael Curry Summer Internship Program (due 3/6/26)

    • The Michael Curry Summer Internship Program offers current college juniors, seniors, and graduate students in all disciplines (including law) an opportunity to work in one of the agencies under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Governor on a full-time basis for ten (10) weeks during the summer. In order to be eligible, you must be a citizen of Illinois. Applicant must be authorized to work in the United States, without employer sponsorship, on a full-time basis for any employer. 

  • Aquatic/Fisheries Field Technician (Hourly) - Illinois Natural History Survey - Havana, Illinois (due 3/6/26)

    The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking multiple (up to 10) field technicians to conduct applied research in aquatic ecology and large river systems throughout the state of Illinois. Technicians will assist large river ecologists in the collection of standardized long-term river monitoring data with additional targeted data collection. This position will be 40 hours per week and will be located in Havana, Illinois. 

  • Aquatic Field Technician (Hourly) - Illinois Natural History Survey - Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, Illinois (due 2/28/26)

    Aquatic field technicians (3) needed to conduct applied research in aquatic ecology and large river systems throughout the state of Illinois. Technicians will assist large river ecologists in the collection of standardized long-term river monitoring data with additional targeted data collection. This position will be 40 hours per week and will be located in Oglesby, Illinois at Starved Rock State Park. 

  • National Environment Leadership Fellowship (due 4/17/26)

    The RCC National Environmental Leadership Fellowship (NELF) Program is designed to identify outstanding students with a passion for environmental education, organizing, and advocacy, and provide them with financial support to carry out valuable projects and campaigns on behalf of the RCC.


  • Forestry Specialist, Openlands

    Forestry Specialist position out of the Openlands Federal Street office in Chicago.

  • Transportation Planning Intern, Christopher B. Burke Engineering Ltd., Rosemont, IL

    Summer position as a Transportation Planning Intern was posted on LinkedIn January 22, 2026.

  • Summer Field Technician University of Illinois (Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming; due March 20th, 2026)

    The Larson Aquatic Ecology Lab at UIUC is seeking a summer undergraduate field technician to assist with field work in Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah for five weeks of summer 2026 from mid-July to mid-August. The technician will be assisting with sampling native and non-native crayfish populations. This will be a full-time position (40 hours per week) at a rate of $15 per hour, with travel, lodging, and meals provided.

    Work will include using seines, nets, and traps for collecting crayfish, hiking in rough terrain, wading in rivers and streams, and camping in remote locations. 

    Preferences for the hire include sophomore standing or above with coursework in ecology/natural resources, experience or comfort hiking and camping in remote locations, previous experience in field biology/ecology, and a valid driver's license. 

    To apply, email Jacob Watson at jacobbw3@illinois.edu a 1-page cover letter, resume, and contact information for 2-3 references as a single PDF by February 20th, 2026. Use “Summer Field Technician Application” in the email subject line.

  • One Health Biologist Position with Indiana DNR - Closes 1/20/26

    Role Overview: As the One Health Biologist for the State of Indiana, you will serve as the state’s ecosystem health and habitat recovery expert in highly impacted areas of Indiana. This position will conduct field research, collect/analyze data, and collaborate with interdisciplinary and cross-agency teams to address ecosystem health challenges within the Grand Calumet River Area of Concern (AOC) and to contribute to the broader understanding of ecosystem health in Indiana.  They will study wildlife health, recovery, and conservation in the Grand Calumet River AOC and across the state as supported by Indiana’s Natural Resource Damages program, as well as contribute to the administration and on-the-ground field work related to EPA grants and Indiana DNR-led restoration projects. 

    The successful candidate will serve as Indiana’s wildlife health and recovery expert, and they will play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of fish, wildlife, and plant populations, with a special interest in the Grand Calumet River AOC. Part of their work in will also include assisting in maintaining one health partnerships for the state. Your work will contribute to the conservation of Indiana's rich ecosystems statewide. 

    Application Deadline: 1/20/2026

    See the Work for Indiana website for a detailed position description, list of required qualifications, and the application process.  

  • Illinois Commodities for Community Scholarship Program - 1/20/26 deadline

    The Illinois Commodities for Community Student Scholarship supports students who are committed to helping farmers and communities become more sustainable. This scholarship provides financial assistance to students whose studies, leadership, and career goals contribute to the health of Illinois’ soil, water, and agricultural system.

    Amount: One scholarship of $2,500 

    Contact: awards@swcs.org 

    Application Deadline: January 20, 2026

    Applicants must meet the following criteria: Be enrolled full-time in undergraduate study at an accredited college, community college, or university in Illinois by the spring of 2026 and have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to sustainable agriculture and conservation

     Applicants must: 1. Complete all questions in the online scholarship application form 2. Upload one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional reference  3. Upload college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) 4. Be pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree related to conservation, agriculture, natural resources, or environmental science (students pursuing a bachelor's degree must be in their junior or senior year)  5. Be 18 years or older at the time of application 

    Apply now athttps://forms.gle/Gi7ZuDKqhxb7Cf1K6 ;

  • RISE: Summer Internships. Research Experience for Undergraduate Students

    RISE (Research Internship in Sustainable Bioenergy) is a summer internship program offering bioenergy research opportunities for undergraduates. This program builds the talent pipeline and is supported by the Department of Energy (CABBI), the National Science Foundation (ASAP, a Global Center), and Boeing.


  • Land Stewardship Manager, Larimer County Natural Resources, Loveland, Colorado, United States, (on-site)

    The Natural Resources Land Stewardship Manager provides a unique and rewarding employment opportunity.

    In this role you will plan, manage, direct, and supervise the daily operations of the Larimer County Weed Control District, Weed Control Enterprise Program, and vegetation management.

    The typical schedule for this position is Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30pm.

  • Program Manager, SER Midwest-Great Lakes Chapter, Chicago, United States (remote)

    The position of program manager for the SER-MWGL chapter is an administrative role.  This person will support our all-volunteer board in executing its mission to support the theory and practice of doing restoration ecology across the Midwest/Great Lakes states.  


  • Land Conservation Specialist (Carlinville, IL)

    The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is seeking a Land Conservation Specialist (LCS) to provide agricultural conservation assistance to the USDA-NRCS in a multi-county region. The LCS will provide conservation planning, outreach, and mid-contract management to agricultural producers and private landowners, leveraging Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) opportunities to achieve wildlife and water quality goals. The position is responsible for accurate documentation, timely reporting, and measurable progress toward conservation objectives.

  • Land Conservation Specialist (Champaign. IL)

    The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is seeking a Land Conservation Specialist (LCS) to provide agricultural conservation assistance to the USDA-NRCS in a multi-county region. The LCS will provide conservation planning, outreach, and mid-contract management to agricultural producers and private landowners, leveraging Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) opportunities to achieve wildlife and water quality goals. The position is responsible for accurate documentation, timely reporting, and measurable progress toward conservation objectives.

    This positions territory specifically oversees Champaign; which includes the following counties: Macon, De Witt, Piatt, Champaign, Ford, Vermillion, and Iroquois. 

  • Land Conservation Specialist (Olney, IL)

    The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is seeking a Land Conservation Specialist (LCS) to provide agricultural conservation assistance to the USDA-NRCS in a multi-county region. The LCS will provide conservation planning, outreach, and mid-contract management to agricultural producers and private landowners, leveraging Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) opportunities to achieve wildlife and water quality goals. The position is responsible for accurate documentation, timely reporting, and measurable progress toward conservation objectives.

    This positions territory specifically oversees Olney, IL; which includes the following counties: Marion, Jefferson, Clay, Wayne, Richland, Lawrence, Edwards, and Wabash 

  • Land Conservation Specialist (Ottawa, IL)

    The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is seeking a Land Conservation Specialist (LCS) to provide agricultural conservation assistance to the USDA-NRCS in a multi-county region. The LCS will provide conservation planning, outreach, and mid-contract management to agricultural producers and private landowners, leveraging Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) opportunities to achieve wildlife and water quality goals. The position is responsible for accurate documentation, timely reporting, and measurable progress toward conservation objectives.

    This positions territory specifically oversees Olney, IL; which includes the following counties: Marion, Jefferson, Clay, Wayne, Richland, Lawrence, Edwards, and Wabash 

  • Land Conservation Specialist (Ridgway, IL)

    The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is seeking a Land Conservation Specialist (LCS) to provide agricultural conservation assistance to the USDA-NRCS in a multi-county region. The LCS will provide conservation planning, outreach, and mid-contract management to agricultural producers and private landowners, leveraging Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) opportunities to achieve wildlife and water quality goals. The position is responsible for accurate documentation, timely reporting, and measurable progress toward conservation objectives.

    This positions territory specifically oversees Ridgway, IL; which includes the following counties: Franklin, Hamilton, White, Williamson, Saline, Gallatin, and Hardin. 

  • Greener Campus Intern - iSEE (due Jan 5th)

    The Greener Campus intern will help iSEE advance campus sustainability by managing Greener Campus certification programs, including Green Offices, Green Events, and Green Chapters, and supporting Earth Month programming. Specifically, the intern will Monitor and review new applications for green certifications Liaise with green certification applicants to respond to questions and verify requirements are met Promote green certifications across campus, with a special focus on promoting the Green Chapter certifications among Greek organizations on campus Coordinate with the Student Sustainability Leadership Council to plan and organize the annual Green Globes event, which recognizes student accomplishments in sustainability Table at events to provide information about iSEE and campus sustainability


  • Biological Science Technician

    One 6-month position is available, working 40 hr/wk. Primary tasks may include invasive plant species control and field mapping with ArcGIS Field Maps, forest inventory surveys, moist soil vegetation surveys, shorebird counts during migration, and data entry. Technician will be expected to assist with other Refuge programs, including pollinator garden work, visitor service events, and general maintenance activities such as trail maintenance. Applicants must be willing to work outdoors, both independently and with other people, and possess good communication skills

  • Undergraduate Hourly Technician - Herbarium - Federal Work Study Preferred

    INHS Herbarium is seeking up to three Undergraduate Students to work on accessioning and organizing plant and fungal specimens. This position will require someone who can handle fragile objects with care and can keep materials well-organized. This position will be located in Champaign, Illinois, on the U of I Campus. 

  • Seasonal Aquatic Field Technician (Hourly) - Illinois Natural History Survey

    INHS is seeking field technicians (1-2) to conduct applied research in aquatic ecology and large river systems throughout the state of Illinois, focusing on the Mississippi River. Technicians will assist large river ecologists in the collection of standardized long-term river monitoring data with additional targeted data collection and lab sample processing. This position will be 40 hours per week and will be based in Macomb, Illinois. 


  • Climate Change Specialist Sokaogon Chippewa Community Administration (position open until filled)

    This newly created position is intended to lead the development and implementation of all aspects related to climate change and energy within the tribal community. The Climate Change Specialist will be responsible for securing grant funding, developing policies, educating the community about climate-related issues, and engaging all tribal departments in climate and energy initiatives. The role involves active participation in projects, meetings, and consultation opportunities, integrating traditional ecological knowledge and scientific best practices to support tribal sustainability and resilience. 

  • Officer, State Science and Technology Policy Fellowship Initiative Full Time

    The Officer, State Science Policy and Technology Fellowship Initiative, collaborates with the project director to manage grantmaking operations to eligible organizations, such as state- or territory-based nonprofits and universities to design and run programs and place fellows in their legislatures. The team will work closely with partners to secure support to sustain the programs over the long-term and ensure fellowship programs adopt effective approaches for promoting fellows’ career growth and making substantive contributions to policymaking.  


  • Sustainable Land and Water Resources Research Experience for Undergraduates (due Feb. 6, priority due date Jan 12)

    The REU will be in person in Montana and Minnesota from June 8 to August 7, 2026, with June 7 and August 8 designated as travel dates.

  • Post-Doctoral Associate in Forest Management Planning UMN (open until filled)

    The University of Minnesota (UMN) Department of Forest Resources is seeking outstanding candidates for a Post-Doctoral Associate position in support of a research project on the integration of wildlife management objectives into forest management planning in Minnesota. This two-year position will mainly be responsible for developing the building blocks of a forest planning model (adapting inventory data, assessing current growth and yield projections, defining current forest management strategies across forest landowners in Minnesota, and integrating wildlife habitat metrics for the keystone wildlife species in Minnesota). 

    The individual will be mentored by scientists in the Department of Forest Resources at the UMN, wildlife research scientists at the UMN Natural Resources Research Institute, and other wildlife experts in Minnesota. The anticipated start date for the position is late Spring 2026 but is open to negotiation.  The initial term of appointment will be one year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year, contingent upon performance. Please note: this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. 

  • Climate-Ocean and Coastal Law & Policy Research Specialist (due Dec 20)

    The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) develops and delivers collaborative solutions to global ocean challenges. We are dedicated to the resilience of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it. This position directly supports the Institute’s four strategic initiatives: Adapting Fisheries and Seafood, Building Climate Ready Communities, Supporting the Blue Economy and Working Waterfronts, and Supporting Energy Solutions, through the integration of ocean and climate science into legal and policy frameworks. To learn more, visit gmri.org

  • Watershed Management, Research, & Extension Outreach Internship Summer 2025 (due December 14)

    This application is for a summer 2026 internship that will run 12 weeks from the end of May to the middle of August. Students apply through this one central application and note their top choices for internship placements. The application deadline is extended to Sunday, December 14th at 11:59PM CT. Any applications received after this date will not be considered unless qualified candidates are not identified in the original review of applications. Candidates will be notified by the end of January.

  • SE CASC Assistant Consortium Director

    The SE CASC Assistant Consortium Director provides support for the mission of the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (SE CASC) through high-level program management and coordination. In addition to working closely with the University Director of the consortium, you will support other members of the consonsortium which includes approximately over 170 faculty affiliates, 10 Consortium Institutions, and 12 Global Change Research Fellows (graduate students) per year.  You’ll also have opportunities to collaborate nationally with other Assistant University Directors, University Directors, Federal Directors, and Deputies through regular conference calls, workshops, and trainings.

  • NRES Summer Research and Management Internship 2026

    Current undergraduates in NRES are eligible to apply for this summer internship to gain experience in 

    both research and management of natural resources. Tasks conducted in this position may include forest 

    health research and monitoring, invasive species research and management, monitoring and managing 

    for wildlife, forest restoration, and assisting with general management tasks.

  • Seasonal Forester Colorado State Forest Service (due Feb. 15th, 2026)

    The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) is a service and outreach agency of the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. In addition to our state office on the CSU Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, the CSFS maintains 18 field offices throughout Colorado. Our professional staff offer Colorado residents an easily accessible source of technical forestry assistance and educational outreach.

  • [NC-CLIMATE] 2026 USDA REEU North Central Watershed Internship

    The applications for the 5th year of USDA REEU (Research & Extension Experience for Undergraduates) for North Central Watershed Internship Program is now open! Applications are due November 30 for consideration for our summer 2026 program. Partners/locations that will be hosting interns this year include South Dakota State University (in Aberdeen), University of Wisconsin (in Milwaukee), University of Illinois, Iowa State University, and University of Missouri. This is a paid internship with full-time hours during the summer of 2026, for 10-12 weeks. We hope you can help tell others about this excellent opportunity.  

  • Zero Waste Coordinator - Facilities and Services (Apply by November 21, 2025)

    Reduce waste sent to landfills from Urbana campus, via direct management of F&S Waste Management & Recycling (WMR) operations.

  • LEED Green Associate Certification: Fall Workshops

    Finish your year off strongly by becoming a LEED Green Associate professional and show employers your certified knowledge in sustainability before April 2026, when the exam version is set to become more challenging. While LEED itself is a scorecard to rate Green Buildings, people can also become LEED accredited demonstrating their expertise in sustainability. 

  • Environmental Leadership Program

    The Environmental Leadership Program (ELP) prepares undergraduates for leadership roles in sustainability fields. Through real-world experience with legislators, nonprofits, and business leaders, this program teaches students how to effectively advocate for policies that improve community sustainability and develops their communication and problem-solving skills around environmental problems. The ELP prepares them for careers in both the public and private sectors and offers valuable networking opportunities with leaders in the field.  

  • Guatemala Wildlife Biology Program 2026

    The two-week program is set on site at the rescue center and students will participate in daily animal husbandry as well as take part in both lectures and practical hands-on sessions to reinforce the lecture material.

    Any student interested in wildlife biology can apply.

  • Alumni/student Mentorship Program

    Great news! The deadline to apply for the new alumni/student mentorship program has been extended!  This new program is designed to connect current students with experienced alumni mentors who are eager to support your academic, professional, and personal growth. 

  • For Undergraduate Students: Apply for the 2026 LeaderShape® Institute™

    The LeaderShape® Institute™ is a nationally recognized four-day, three-night leadership retreat for Illinois undergraduate students of all majors. This immersive experience will take place January 12-15, 2026, at Allerton Park & Retreat Center in Monticello, IL. Students selected to participate will attend for free thanks to the generous financial support of campus sponsors. 

  • Graduate Research Assistantship in Environmental Social Sciences and Qualitative Analysis starting in Fall 2026

    The successful applicant will conduct qualitative data analysis based on semi-structured interviews and Net-Maps with coffee farmers in Colombia, focusing on their social interactions (with peers and others) and the implementation of sustainable practices (e.g. agroforestry, soil conservation). They will also support additional research activities related to the project, contribute to the preparation of at least one peer-reviewed article, and collaborate with an international team of scholars based in Australia, Sweden, and Colombia. The selected candidate will pursue the Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. 

    One of the desired qualifications is Spanish since the data to be analyzed is in Spanish

  • Rocky Mountain Elf Foundation (RMEF) Wildlife Leadership Awards Scholarship Fall 2025 (due October 22, 2025)

    RMEF, a leading conservation organization headquartered in Missoula, Montana, is offering a scholarship opportunity to undergraduate students in wildlife-related natural resource programs. The WLA scholarship program was created to “recognize, encourage and promote leadership among future wildlife management professionals.” The scholarships are presented to undergraduate students in their junior or senior year and provide a $5,000 scholarship and a one-year membership to RMEF.

     

  • Natural Resources Technician (Mahomet, IL - until position is filled)

    The Champaign County Forest Preserve District is currently hiring a Natural Resources Technician to work at Lake of the Woods Preserve in Mahomet, IL. The position posted on 9/10/25 and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.