Natural Resources Intern

Description

Interns will work on both office and field projects, supporting natural resources surveys such as wetland delineations, wildlife and botanical assessments, and compliance monitoring. The role includes data clean‑up, reporting, and regular presentations by SWCA leaders, providing a strong foundation for launching a career in environmental sciences.

• Support project managers and field leads in natural resources surveys (wetland, wildlife, botanical, compliance).
• Perform office tasks such as data clean‑up and reporting for the Natural Resources team.
• Conduct fieldwork across office locations and nearby states, including extended hikes independently or with colleagues.
• Follow SWCA safety program and promptly communicate and mitigate safety hazards.

Requirements

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Natural Resources Intern for the Summer 2026 term at its Amherst, MA office. This full‑time, paid internship offers a competitive rate of $19.00 per hour and runs from early June to mid‑August, with flexibility for early starts or extensions beyond August. Candidates must reside within driving distance of Amherst and meet the eligibility criteria outlined below.

Applicants should be juniors or seniors pursuing a bachelor's degree in an environmental‑related field, or recent graduates (within 12 months of May 1, 2026). Residency in Massachusetts is required unless attending a Massachusetts‑based institution, and candidates must be at least 18 years old at the start of the internship. A cover letter is required, and the hiring process will remain open until a sufficient pool of qualified candidates is collected.

• Be a junior or senior pursuing an environmental‑related bachelor's degree, or a recent graduate (within 12 months of May 1, 2026).
• Reside in Massachusetts or attend a Massachusetts institution; preferably within one hour of the Amherst office.
• Be at least 18 years old by the internship start date.
• Have experience with natural resources fieldwork through coursework, projects, internships, or volunteer work.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrate strong communication, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn new survey and monitoring techniques and protocols.
• Field‑based role may require 50‑75% travel and fieldwork, including long hours, inclement weather, rugged terrain, and carrying equipment up to 40 lb.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Familiarity with GPS devices, digital data collection, and ArcGIS mapping software (helpful).
• Technical writing experience (helpful).
• Ineligible if employed by SWCA for more than six weeks during the current calendar year.

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance