Water Infrastructure Improvement Intern-Bureau of Safe Drinking Water (College)

Internships with the Department of Environmental Protection offer a unique chance for students to engage with and support various environmental initiatives aimed at safeguarding Pennsylvania's air, land, and water from pollution. This experience not only contributes to the agency's mission of ensuring a healthier environment for all citizens but also provides interns with valuable skills and insights that can enhance their future careers in public service. If you are passionate about making a difference and wish to gain practical experience before graduation, we encourage you to apply today!

In this position, you will play a vital role in water resources planning for the Coastal Resources Management Program within the Interstate Water Resources Management Division at the Department of Environmental Protection. This opportunity will allow you to enhance your scientific, environmental, and mapping skills while participating in various program activities throughout the state, with a particular emphasis on the Delaware Estuary and Lake Erie coastal zones. Your work will focus on critical areas such as coastal hazards, wetlands, public access, grant management, GIS/remote sensing, ocean resources, invasive species, and community engagement.

Moreover, you will contribute to surveillance and educational initiatives aimed at ensuring compliance with the Pennsylvania Plumbing System Lead Ban and Notification Act, which prohibits lead-containing materials in plumbing systems. This is essential for safeguarding public health by preventing lead exposure in drinking water. Additionally, you will be involved in daily operations related to the WIIN Act Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing & Reduction Grant, gaining hands-on experience in grant administration, compliance, data management, and program coordination while working closely with program staff to ensure accurate documentation and timely reporting. This role will also provide logistical and administrative support to program staff as required.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

• Full-time internship that will run from May 2026 through August 2026
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, on a schedule that aligns with the supervisor. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
  

QUALIFICATIONS
Internship Requirements:

• Current full-time enrollment in a bachelor's degree or advanced degree program in one of the following majors:
  • Marine Biology
  • Environmental Science/Studies
  • Biology/Environmental Biology
• An approved major course of study at an accredited college or university.
• Freshman year completed
• Good academic standing (2.0 GPA or higher).
• Pennsylvania residency or enrollment at a Pennsylvania college or university.

Additional Requirements:

• You must possess a valid driver's license which is not under suspension.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.