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

  • Forestry Technician Matt's Healthy Woods & Wildlife

    At Matt's Healthy Woods & Wildlife, our team will always strive to provide the highest quality advice and assistance to every client, no matter the project. Whether you want to manage your forest for maximum timber production, whitetail habitat, overall forest health, or anything in between; we look forward to the opportunity to assist you along the way. We offer a suite of forestry and wildlife management services to help you maximize your potential.


  • Environmental Health Sanitarian McDonough County Health Department

    Provide health protection services to the public in environmental health, communicable disease, and public health preparedness programs including but not limited to food sanitation, potable water, sewage disposal, vector control, solid waste, toxic and hazardous substances, indoor air, indoor tanning, body art, housing, facility sanitation, public health emergency preparedness, tobacco enforcement and nuisances. 

  • Forester for Matt's healthy Woods & Wildlife

    At Matt's Healthy Woods & Wildlife, our team will always strive to provide the highest quality advice and assistance to every client, no matter the project. Whether you want to manage your forest for maximum timber production, whitetail habitat, overall forest health, or anything in between; we look forward to the opportunity to assist you along the way. We offer a suite of forestry and wildlife management services to help you maximize your potential.


  • Upland Game Research Scientist - due 3/19/26

    The DNR's Farmland Wildlife Populations and Research Group (FaWPRG) is currently seeking an Upland Game Research Scientist in Madelia, MN. This position exists to serve as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) expert on upland game birds (especially wild turkeys, ring-necked pheasants, gray partridge, and northern bobwhite quail), other upland game (e.g., tree squirrels, rabbits), and avian ecology in farmland landscapes; to design, execute, and report independent and original research and survey projects on farmland game birds and their habitats (including habitats created by governmental farm programs); to provide new knowledge about these resources; and to develop and evaluate new methods and techniques for the advancement of upland game and farmland bird management.

  • Strike Team Crew Member (Program Coordinator) Western Illinois University - due 3/29/26

    Employees in this position assist in conducting natural areas stewardship activities including, but not limited to, prescribed burning, firebreak creation and maintenance, seed collection and spreading, and herbaceous and woody invasive species control using chemical and mechanical means in conjunction with grant-funded resource management. Proper operation of vehicles and use of management/prescribed equipment. Help with equipment upkeep and maintenance. Assist in maintaining records of management methods /techniques used, herbicide used, other commodities used (chain oil fuel), acreage treated and total hours worked per site. 

  • Strike Team Coordinator (Program Coordinator) Western Illinois University - due 3/29/26

    RESPONSIBILITIES: Employees at this level conduct natural areas stewardship activities including, but not limited to, prescribed burning, firebreak creation and maintenance, seed collection and spreading, and herbaceous and woody invasive species control using chemical and mechanical means in conjunction with grant-funded resource management. Will need to work closely with IDNR partners facilitating resource management efforts through grant support. The coordinator is also responsible for directing the crew member and other workers in proper use and techniques related to listed duties.

  • Extension Prescribed Fire Specialist Purdue

    The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources is seeking a self-motivated and enthusiastic candidate for an Extension Prescribed Fire Specialist position. Under general supervision, this position will be responsible for coordinating, conducting, and leading prescribed fires and prescribed fire training and outreach across Indiana. This position will also be responsible for supporting the formation of Prescribed Burn Associations (PBA) and supporting the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council (INPFC). In addition, this individual will work closely with Indiana conservation partners to develop prescribed fire training and outreach that builds the capacity and support for prescribed fire on public and private land in Indiana. 


  • Seasonal lab technician position UIUC - due 3/27/26

    The Fraterrigo Lab at UIUC is seeking a laboratory technician to assist with laboratory work, mainly the processing of soil cores collected in Arctic Alaska in the summers of 2024-25.The technician will be supervised by PhD student Alejandro Marengo and duties include a combination of soil sampling, root extraction, root trait measurements, processing of root samples for chemical analysis, data entry, and general laboratory maintenance. This will be a full-time position (40 hours/week) at a rate of $15/hour

  • 2026 Summer Internship with Friends of Volo Bog - due 3/15/26

    The Friends of Volo Bog seeks a dedicated summer intern to gain hands-on experience in visitor services, digital communications, and environmental education at Volo Bog State Natural Area. This internship offers the opportunity to work with our volunteer organization while supporting the preservation and interpretation of this unique Illinois ecosystem. Working alongside experienced naturalists and volunteers, the intern will contribute to our mission of promoting citizen awareness of the natural heritage of Volo Bog State Natural Area through education and special events ensuring the continued care and preservation of this natural historic site. This position is ideal for students interested in conservation, environmental education, communications, or nonprofit management.

  • Summer Field Tech Position Purdue University - due 3/20/26

    We are hiring one technician to assist with the collection of field data at sites within the Hoosier National Forest, in southern Indiana, as part of a collaborative study between the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University and the USDA Forest Service. The technician will work alongside a graduate student collecting vegetation data (overstory, understory, and herbaceous) and soil samples to study long-term forest change. Basic knowledge of proper field techniques and backcountry safety are required. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license

  • ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INTERN Village of Skokie - due 4/17/26

    This 12-week position provides hands-on experience in municipal public health, including vector surveillance, West Nile Virus prevention efforts, environmental investigations, data analysis, and community education. It is well-suited for students pursuing Environmental Health, Public Health, or other science-related degrees who are seeking practical field experience in local government.


  • Communications Coordinator, The Wetlands Initiative - Chicago

    TWI seeks a Communications Coordinator who is passionate about the environment and interested in using their skills on behalf of a growing nonprofit. The Coordinator will report to the Director of Development & Communications and be part of a small, collaborative development and communications team that supports TWI’s regional ecological restoration projects.  

  • Conservation Partnership and Engagement Specialist, The Nature Conservancy - Chicago

    The Conservation Partnership and Engagement Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing community engagement strategies that build off existing programs to connect and foster relationships between local communities and regional TNC projects and preserves. This position oversees multiple grantmaking and capacity-building programs that align with TNC’s equitable conservation strategies through the statewide Volunteer Stewardship Network (VSN) and the Thrive Outside program in Chicago. 

  • DEADLINE EXTENDED: Summer Internship, Illinois EPA - Des Plaines, IL (due 3/1)

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

  • SASRI Program Associate Coordinator, National Forest Foundation (due 3/4/2026)

    The National Forest Foundation (NFF), in partnership with the Southern Appalachian Spruce Restoration Initiative (SASRI) and the United States Forest Service (USFS), seeks a Program Associate Coordinator to expand the pace and scale spruce restoration work across Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee on federal, state, tribal and private lands. 

  • 2026 Stormwater Coordinator Internship - due 3/27/26

    The Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) is seeking 1 intern to assist our planning, GIS and stormwater coordinator staff on a variety of tasks. The successful candidate will spend time in the office and field under the guidance of SMC staff and will be involved in several phases of SMC’s programs in support of watershed workgroups, grant inspection coordination, education and outreach, site inspections, MS4 coordinator support and GIS tasks. 

  • 2026 FPCC/ILM Resource Management Career Immersion Internship - due 3/6/26

    We are currently hiring for the Career Immersion Resource Management Crew intern positions with the Forest Preserves of Cook County and Integrated Lakes Management. We will have 4 interns this summer - 2 at Skokie Resource Management and 2 at Thorn Creek Resource Management. I've attached the job description and below are some highlights of the position.

     

  • Various fishing, gardening, and nature camp counselor positions (Chicago Park District) - due 3/4/26

    We are hiring multiple camp counselors and coordinators for our fishing, gardening, and nature camps this 2026 season! Applications are due by March 4th at 11:59pm.  

  • RISE Internship Program IDPH

    Interns will have the opportunity to learn through impactful projects, develop critical skills in public service, and gain exposure to the inner workings of state-level initiatives. This experience equips students with the practical knowledge and leadership abilities necessary for their future careers.

  • Climate Adaptation Science Center Intern (Senior Undergraduate/ Graduate Student/Recent Graduate) - due 3/30/26

    This is an excellent opportunity for students to: develop a firm understanding of climate change, understand natural resource management opportunities and challenges, develop a strong understanding of the roles and responsibilities of federal agencies, and develop an understanding of best practices in climate communication.


  • 2026 SMC Project Internship - due 3/27/26

    The Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) is seeking 1 intern to assist our GIS, planning, and regulatory staff on a variety of tasks. The priority task will be gathering photographs and documentation for all existing SMC project sites.

  • Biology Faculty (Visiting Assistant Professor – 1 Year Only) - due 3/1/26

    The Saint Mary's College Department of Biology invites applications for a 1-Year Visiting Assistant Professor beginning Fall 2026, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years. We are particularly interested in applicants with expertise in Ecology, Conservation Biology, or Environmental Science. 

  • Larimore Internship of Stream Ecology (due 3/15/26)

    The Larimore Stream Ecology Internship with Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) will provide you with knowledge and real-world experience to prepare you for a graduate program in stream or aquatic ecology. INHS has more than 150 years of research on biological resources, particularly aquatic life in Illinois and beyond (www.inhs.illinois.edu). Fieldwork will be focused on the Jordan Creek in Central-east Illinois, approximately 40 minutes away from UI campus. The stream has been used as a study model system over decades by several well-established ecologists, particularly, Dr. Larimore, who was a distinguished aquatic ecologist with INHS. The successful applicant will work closely with the stream ecology lab in INHS. 

  • Montana Conservation Corp Various Positions

    We are currently recruiting for a variety of positions across several different programs, all providing great field experience and technical job training. 

    All of our positions come with:

    ·  An AmeriCorps living stipend (even internships are PAID positions)

    ·  AmeriCorps Education award

    ·  FREE Health Insurance (members serving over 4 months)

    ·  Pro Deals

    ·  Food per diem while on overnight projects

    ·  Public Lands Corps Hiring Authority

    ·  Leadership and technical training

  • Nature Conservancy Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician

    The Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician will perform as part of our burn crew to implement prescribed fire; transplant native plants; harvest, clean, and process seed; and control invasive species using brush cutters, chainsaws, and herbicide applied from UTV’s and backpack sprayers and learn how to use GPS and GIS to map applications.  They assist with preserve management including upkeep of trails, fencing, signs, and bison viewing area; and participate in events, interact with visitors, and work with volunteers.

    This is a short-term, full-time (35 hours), field position based at our Kankakee Sands preserve in Illinois and Indiana, with a Field Office in Morocco, Indiana, lasting approximately 6 months starting around May.  There are multiple positions available.





  • Seasonal Aquatic Field Technician Illinois Natural History Survey (due 3/8/26)

    We are seeking up to three (3) field technicians to assist with aquatic research for summer 2026. Duties include collecting mussels by hand sampling, snorkeling, and quantitative sampling along transect lines; setting and maintaining water quality collection devices; and collecting eDNA samples. Other work may include collecting fish by dip-netting, seining, and trawling, as well as backpack, barge, and boat electrofishing; lab and museum work, data entry, processing specimens for curation, museum maintenance, equipment cleaning and maintenance; and other duties as needed. Travel is expected, and overnight travel with 2–3-hour travel time to research sites should be expected during some work weeks. Workdays may consist of long hours outdoors or inside a lab. 

    Position will be based in Champaign, Illinois. Housing is not provided.

  • Summer Forestry Intern - Mount Prospect, IL

    Student Intern wanted for temporary employment for Summer 2026 with the municipal Forestry Division.

  • Conservation Intern or Fellow (due 2/20/26)

    The Montana Conservation Corps has a mission of "Inspiring young people through hands-on conservation service to be leaders, stewards of the land, and engaged citizens who improve their communities." We do this through adventure with purpose, with members in a variety of positions that can fit individual, conservation, and community needs. Our corps members say MCC is a great place for personal growth, to learn practical job skills, build confidence, strengthen communication and leadership competencies, and to develop the ability to work well with people from all walks of life. Conservation Fellows’ service is centered around completing natural resources-related projects within their host site community.  Project focus and outcomes vary depending on the host site. Along with serving their communities, CFs make tangible contributions to conservation solutions while developing professional skills that directly transfer to a career in the community service and natural resources fields.

  • Summer Field Technician, University of Illinois (Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming; due February 27th, 2026)

    Summary

    The Larson Aquatic Ecology Lab at UIUC is seeking a summer undergraduate 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 a graduate student in 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.

     Duties:

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

    Qualifications:

    Preferences for the hire include sophomore standing or higher with coursework in ecology and natural resources, experience/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 one-page cover letter, resume, and contact information for 2-3 references as a single PDF by February 27th, 2026. Use “Summer Field Technician Application” in the email subject line.

  • Winnetka Forestry Intern

    The Village of Winnetka’s Engineering Department is seeking student applicants for the temporary position of Forestry Intern. This position is expected to begin work in late-May and continue through August (approximately 10 to 12 weeks). The Forestry Intern is responsible for assisting the Village Forester in maintenance and management of the Village’s public and private trees.   


  • Lab Research Specialist, Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (due 2/20/26)

    This position will support the on-farm research and thus the nutrient and water quality program of the Soils Lab work on agroecosystem sustainability via iSEE on multiple interdisciplinary projects focused on nutrient, water and soil management and conservation. The individual is expected to work closely with other field-based personnel in the Margenot group in iSEE and related organization units on funded projects, and with Illinois agricultural stakeholders.

  • Field Research Specialist (Margenot Lab) Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (due 2/20/26)

    This position will support the on-farm research and thus the nutrient and water quality program of the Soils Lab work on agroecosystem sustainability via iSEE on multiple interdisciplinary projects focused on nutrient, water and soil management and conservation. The individual is expected to work closely with other field-based personnel in the Margenot group in iSEE and related organization units on funded projects, and with Illinois agricultural stakeholders.

  • 2026 Flood Mitigation Program Management Internship (2/27/26)

    The Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) is seeking one full-time intern to provide administrative support for SMC Flood Mitigation Program. This is a long-term position, not to exceed 1,000 hours. Applicants are encouraged to review information on the Voluntary Floodplain Buyout Program at https://www.lakecountyil.gov/3973/Flood-Information-and-Programs prior to applying.

  • Clemson University’s Camp Wildlife Internship (due 3/1/26)

    Camp Wildlife is located in Summerton, South Carolina on Lake Marion. Students would work with 8-14 year olds. We teach kids the values of the outdoors through wildlife ecology classes, outdoor survival skills, and shooting sports (archery, shotguns, rifles). We’ve run this program for over 20 years and have been very successful in building the next generations love for the outdoors.

    These staff positions can count toward internships and are paid.  We also get students certified in shooting sports through SC 4-H Shooting Sports.  

  • Roadside IRVM Intern - Adel, IA (2/20/26)

    Under general supervision, assist with Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management related work including seeding, erosion control, brush removal and basic maintenance of equipment.

  • Natural Areas Internship - Grand Prairie Friends (Apply ASAP)

    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. 

  • Openlands Arborist Registered Apprenticeship (ARA) - 2/8/26 Deadline

    The Arborist Registered Apprenticeship (ARA)  is a 3-year training program administered by Openlands in partnership with the Department of Labor and industry partners across the Chicago region. The ARA coordinates with the industry to improve recruitment and retention and create a path to welcome more diverse and experienced applicants. At the same time, the program introduces participating apprentices to a diverse array of career opportunities in arboriculture and urban forestry, all while being paid, gaining credentials, and professional training by certified arborists in the field. 

    Openlands understands its success in mitigating the effects of climate change and building environmental equity in Chicago is linked to the growth of a diverse and inclusive workforce in our region. As an organization at the nexus of the tree care industry, Chicago communities, and governmental partnerships, Openlands is proud to lead the first registered apprenticeship program for arboriculture in Illinois.

    Email apprenticeship@openlands.org with questions or to learn more about the ARA program.

    Applications due 2/8/2026.  Apply online.

  • Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator -Grand Prairie Friends (Apply by 2/28/26)

    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. 

  • 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.