Natural Resources Intern

About the opportunity:

SWCA is seeking a Natural Resources Intern for the Summer of 2026 to support projects across Arizona and in neighboring states. This position can be based in any SWCA Arizona office (Flagstaff, Phoenix, or Tucson). As a Natural Resources Intern, you will primarily support field efforts but will also assist with reporting and other office-based tasks, collaborating with a team of skilled natural resource professionals. Established in 1981, SWCA is recognized for sound science and creative solutions. This internship offers a unique opportunity to launch your career in environmental sciences, supported by leadership dedicated to your professional growth.

The Natural Resources Intern position requires some educational background or experience in biology, natural resource management, ornithology, ecology, or a related field. The fieldwork required with this position takes place in an outdoor environment, where the weather and terrain can be demanding. Fieldwork will often require long field days and multi-day field hitches in remote areas and may occasionally involve working weekends. Preference will be given to those with a demonstrated interest in natural sciences, desire to challenge yourself by trying new things, willingness to learn, and good communication skills.

This is a paid, temporary, 40-hour per week internship. Interns will be paid $19.00/hr. The position will be based in one of the Arizona offices (Flagstaff, Phoenix, or Tucson) but will involve traveling to project sites throughout Arizona. The internship spans from June 1 - August 14, 2026, with potential flexibility for early starters and those interested in extending beyond August 14, 2026.

Applicants must be willing to participate in a drug testing and alcohol screening as part of the pre-employment process, as some projects require such screenings. In addition, all candidates must submit a cover letter to be considered.

Application deadline: Our team will begin reviewing applications immediately, and interviews will be scheduled with qualified candidates on a rolling basis. The application process will remain open until we have received a robust pool of qualified candidates. Once we have identified suitable individuals, we may close the application process without prior notice. We appreciate the time and effort invested by all applicants and will carefully consider each submission.

What you will accomplish:

• Support project managers and field leads with a variety of natural resources surveys such as general biological site characterization surveys, threatened/endangered species assessments, avian focused wildlife surveys, botanical surveys, and surface water delineation surveys.
• Use GPS devices and tablets equipped with topographic maps and aerial photographs for data collection and navigation.
• Record data on field site forms or in digital tablets, organize and transfer field data, assist with data QA/QC, and support technical reporting.
• Conduct field work across Arizona and other nearby states as needed, including multi-day field hitches in remote areas that require overnight stays.
• Conduct field work involving extended hikes in mixed weather conditions and terrain, either with colleagues or independently.
• Adhere to the safety program and look out for the safety of others, promptly communicating and mitigating safety hazards.

Experience and qualifications for success:

• Currently enrolled juniors or seniors pursuing a bachelor's degree in an environmental-related field, or recent graduates within 12 months of May 1, 2026.
• Applicants that are pursuing a Master's degree will also be considered. Ph.D. candidates are not eligible through this program.
• Experience with natural resources field work (e.g., environmental, natural, water, biological, ecological, etc.) through classwork, honors thesis or Capstone projects, professional/intern experience, or volunteer work.
• Ability to travel to a location, walk and conduct fieldwork for long hours (sometimes in inclement weather and/or rugged terrain, often at high altitudes), and carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions, effectively execute tasks, and conform to shifting priorities and demands.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to drive a 4WD vehicle on backcountry roads are required.
• Ability to drive or learn to drive ATVs, UTVS, and other off-road vehicles and haul trailers required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite software.
• Must have good communication skills, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
• Must have the ability and willingness to learn new survey and monitoring techniques and protocols.

Preferred qualifications:

• Biological survey experience, including wildlife and/or plant surveys.
• Keen observation and identification (birds, other wildlife, plants, etc.) skills.
• Familiarity with GPS devices and digital data collection, and/or mapping software such as ArcGIS.

Why Work at SWCA:

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing employee-owned firm, providing a full-spectrum of environmental services. Our Vision (the North Star) is to make SWCA the best workplace and industry leader in sustainability, bringing sound science and creative solutions to global environmental challenges while maintaining a dedication to employee-ownership. We live our core values: we collaborate as #OneSWCA; we are #AlwaysLearning , we #NeverSettle, and we #GiveBack.

We are 100% employee-owned , and we build our success together. 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 . We offer a supportive, team-oriented work environment and competitive wages and benefits, including an 100% employee stock ownership plan (retirement).

If you need assistance accessing SWCA’s website, completing the online application, or require accommodations at any point during the hiring process due to a disability, please contact us at [email protected] or call 1-480-581-5378. We’re 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.

SWCA is committed to salary equity and salary transparency for all its employees. In alignment with this commitment, SWCA posts good faith pay ranges in all its advertised job postings to promote pay equity and transparency. In Flagstaff/Tucson/Phoenix, AZ, interns will be paid $19.00/hr.

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