Location: Champaign, Illinois
The Champaign Regional Office, Division of Environmental Health, is seeking a dedicated intern to support the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental health, specifically in the assessment and management of lead hazards in residential environments. This internship offers a unique chance to contribute to a critical public health program while gaining valuable field experience. Interns will develop skills in environmental assessment, data analysis, and public health research.
Responsibilities:
- Compile and analyze data collected during Environmental Lead Risk Assessments, including:
- X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) readings from lead-based painted surfaces
- Dust wipe samples to analyze lead contamination on floors and horizontal surfaces
- Soil samples from areas with bare soil accessible to children
- Water samples from interior faucets that may contribute to elevated blood lead levels in children
- Accompany Environmental Health Field Inspectors on site visits during Environmental Lead Risk Assessments to observe and learn about the process of Environmental Investigations.
- Additional opportunities to accompany inspectors during field inspections of the various Environmental Engineering programs the regional office is responsible for.
- Gain insight into identifying common lead hazards in residential structures and understanding the potential impacts of lead exposure on childhood development.
- Assist in developing a research project based on data collected from environmental lead assessments, focusing on key findings and trends.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Currently taking junior or senior-level courses in their undergraduate degree, or a pursuing a graduate degree in Public Health, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Available to work onsite at least 2 days per week for 6-8 hours. All other hours can be more flexible around class schedule.
- Desire to learn how the Environmental Health arm of Public Health works.
- Must pass a background check.
- Must be located within 1 hour of Champaign, IL
Preferred:
- Strong understanding of data analysis and interpretation in research.
- Exceptional attention to detail and well-developed analytical skills.
- Proven ability to work independently while also thriving in collaborative team environments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; adept at critical thinking and inquiry.
Duration and Compensation:
This is an unpaid internship with flexible scheduling options to accommodate academic commitments. Academic credit may be available depending on your institution's guidelines. This is a fully onsite opportunity for 15-20 hours a week. Must be located within 1 hour of Champaign, IL.
All applications must be submitted by Friday, January 30th, 2026 to be considered for this internship.
Apply here
