Natural Resources Intern

About the opportunity

Embark on an exciting journey with SWCA as a Natural Resources Intern for Summer 2026 to support both office and field natural resources projects out of our Scarborough, Maine office. The Natural Resources Intern will support a variety of field-based and office-based projects, working with a talented, multi-disciplinary team of natural resource professionals.

SWCA, established in 1981, is a renowned name in the United States, recognized for sound science and creative problem-solving. SWCA provides a range of services including ecological design, environmental site assessment, resource identification, environmental planning, permitting, mitigation and restoration. We are 100% employee-owned team of scientists, planners, technical experts, and corporate services professionals that are committed to sound science and creative problem-solving. Our company goal is to preserve natural and cultural resources for tomorrow while enabling projects that benefit people today. With offices across the United States, SWCA is one of the largest environmental compliance firms and ranks among Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms.

As a Natural Resources Intern in Scarborough, Maine, you'll dive into wetland delineations, rare species surveys, and permitting work while also aiding in preparation of associated required reporting. You will also be coached to research the environmental regulations that go alongside those field efforts. The Scarborough office works in tandem with many of the SWCA offices in the region, giving opportunities to travel to other offices and meet more experts in our company. This internship offers a unique opportunity to launch your career in environmental sciences, gaining on the ground and in-depth experience in a wide variety of tasks while being supported by experienced leadership dedicated to your professional growth. It is a great way to try out the industry and successful internships may lead to temporary or permanent employment opportunities.

The internship typically spans from early June to mid-August 2026, however we have flexibility for early starters and those interested in extending beyond August based on the right candidate. Alongside impactful project work, the SWCA Internship Program includes regular presentations by SWCA leaders and training sessions that enhance the experience and provide access to other interns throughout the nation. 

This is a paid, 40 hour/week internship with a competitive rate of $19.00/hour with the potential for overtime and additional compensation for travel (per diem or expense reimbursement, mileage, etc.). This position will have up to 80% travel for fieldwork, including spending extended periods in field locations.

Application Instructions:  Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this position.  In the cover letter, please let us know how this internship aligns with your career goals.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as is reasonable. We will review applications on a rolling basis and close the posting as soon as the position is filled.

What you will accomplish

• Support project managers and field leads in various natural resources surveys, including wetland delineations, wildlife surveys, ecological restoration efforts, botanical surveys and permitting.
• Engage in office tasks such as field data review, reporting, and other activities to support the Natural Resources team.
• Conduct fieldwork to support regional office locations, including travel to nearby states.
• Adhere to the safety program and look out for the safety of others, promptly communicating and mitigating safety hazards. 

Experience and qualifications for success

Requirements:

• Currently enrolled  as a Junior or Senior in a college or university, pursuing a bachelor's degree in an environmental-related field or a recent graduate within 12 months of May 1, 2026. Equivalent experience will be considered.
• Applicants pursuing a Master's degree will also be considered. Ph.D. candidates are not eligible for this program.
• Must report to the Scarborough, Maine office when not engaged in field work.
• Experience with natural resources fieldwork through coursework, projects, professional/intern experience, or volunteer work is strongly preferred. In a resume or cover letter, applicants must provide sufficient detail to demonstrate their field experience.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite software.
• Good communication, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel, walk, and conduct fieldwork for long hours, sometimes in inclement weather and rugged terrain, with the capacity to carry equipment weighing up to 40 pounds. The internship may require fieldwork that involves extended hikes either independently or with colleagues and participation in planting restoration sites which can be laborious but rewarding.
• Ability to execute tasks effectively, and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Ability and willingness to learn new survey and monitoring techniques and protocols.

Helpful Skills:

• Familiarity with GPS devices, digital data collection, and mapping software like ArcGIS.
• Understanding of natural resource regulations through coursework.
• Technical writing experience.

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing employee-owned firm, providing a full spectrum of environmental services. With offices across the United States, SWCA is one of the largest environmental compliance firms and ranks among Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms.

If you need assistance accessing SWCA’s website, completing the online application, or require a confidential conversation related to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact us at accommodations@swca.com or call 1-480-581-5378. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive experience for all candidates. This contact information is specifically for accommodation requests; other inquiries will not receive a response. 

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.  At SWCA Environmental Consultants, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. We strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds, including those with diverse experiences and veterans, to apply. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce enhances creativity, innovation, and overall organizational success.