NRES Career Information

Resources related to careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences

The program has campers ages 10-16 who are interested in learning about adventure activities. Adventure activities include: White Water Rafting, Climbing Wall, Rappelling, Zip Lining, Rock Climbing, Canoeing, Hatchet Throwing, Shooting Sports (Crossbows & Archery), and other 

This is 5-week summer program to introduced high school students to restoration work in the South Suburbs of Cook County. 

The Kent Lab (https://microbiome.nres.illinois.edu), based at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, is recruiting undergraduate hourly research technicians to assist with lab research in soil microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, and crop science. Our research group focuses on understanding the nitrogen cycling microbial community in agricultural ecosystems. We are also interested in exploring and harnessing beneficial microbial traits to improve soil health and inform future plant breeding. 

U.S. Geological Survey is recruiting for a student intern position focused on fisheries climate adaptation. 

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

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.

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

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.

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. 

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.   

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.

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.  

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

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. 

• 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

• Jobs - Savanna Institute

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. 

Just showed up on my LinkedIn feed and due TOMORROW!

• 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. 

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.

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 20^th, 2026. Use “Summer Field Technician Application” in the email subject line.

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.

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

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.

To complete the 10 weeks required by the REU, participants will spend 40 hours of pre-REU time working remotely. During this time, participants will do online tutorials, create a basic Arc GIS Story Map, and meet on Zoom with REU mentors and participants.

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.

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.

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.

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.  

Successful applicants will work in a joint capacity with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Quail Forever (QF) and other partners to assist in the implementation of Farm Bill and other related wildlife conservation programs. Activities may include providing CRP contract status reviews, contract coordination, site assessment, and reporting. Interns will work directly with a QF Farm Bill Biologist and closely with local NRCS field staff assisting with various projects related to wildlife management. 

The NW MI Invasive Species Network (ISN) is still seeking one more seasonal invasive species treatment crew member to help manage terrestrial invasive plant species on private and public lands around our four-county service area in Northern Michigan. 

Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation is looking for a Summer Camp Counseller for 2025.

Hourly, Temporary Position. $17/hour

Dundee, IL

MWRD's Internship Program offers paid internship positions. While the main focus is on wastewater management, there are opportunities to gain knowledge and practical experience in a wide range of functions in each department.

All students interested in gaining research experience are encouraged to apply!

In the 2025 CPLC internship program, high school and college students will learn about environmental issues our community faces, get hands-on experience in environmental advocacy, and grow as leaders while being part of a supportive team.

This internship offers a unique opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain valuable field experience under the mentorship of Smithsonian Ecologists while working alongside peers from neighboring Tribal Colleges. The cohort of 2025 Interns will make valuable contributions to the historic launch of the first Inter-Tribal Long-term Ecological Research Network focused on sustainable management of grassland ecosystems, the most critically endangered habitat in the world. 

Job Summary

Under the direction and supervision of the Manager of Permits and Revenue or designee, performs on-site customer service at permitted outdoor events, including but not limited to, confirming permit items listed, communicating with external and internal customers and assisting with basic needs of the event. Performs basic administrative duties to support the operations of the Permits, Rentals, and Concessions Department. Performs other duties as assigned. This position is an intern position working up to 40 hours per week for up to three (3) months and primarily working Thursday through Monday and holidays at various locations.

Are you curious about the Forest Preserves and the natural world around you? Join our team as a seasonal Youth Outdoor Ambassador (YOA) intern at one of the most historic agencies of the last hundred years. This position will support operations within the Department of Conservation and Experiential Programming (CEP) as well as other departments in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Interns are mentored by nature educators and professionals to develop a foundation of life and career readiness skills. Interns will learn local ecology, recreation, community engagement, native plants and animals and much more. As YOA interns, you will also learn about various careers in the Forest Preserves while gaining exposure to other conservation and recreation organizations. Spend your summer connecting with people, connecting with nature, and connecting people to nature. Interns will assist all CEP staff and could work in any CEP location including, but not limited to, General Office, Nature Centers, and Campgrounds. Interns will provide support in a variety of administrative tasks, assignments, programs and operational functions, and will perform other duties as required or assigned. This is a seasonal position and for a duration of up to 6 months 

The summer internship will run from May 27^th through July 25^th, 2025. Individuals with ties to Illinois’ sixth district are strongly encouraged to apply. 

These 8-month internships are a great opportunity for post-bacs (especially, but not limited to 2025 graduates) interested in gaining hands-on research experience before graduate school in ecology, evolution, botany, natural resources or related fields.