31 Environmental Internships for High School Students
Do you spend your free time cleaning up your local park or learning about the latest climate change documentaries? If protecting the planet is your passion, you might be surprised to learn there are hundreds of environmental internships out there waiting for high school students just like you.
In this blog, we’ll share 31 incredible internship opportunities that will allow you to get your hands dirty (in a good way!), learn from environmental experts, and make a real difference in the world. Whether you’re fascinated by wildlife conservation, captivated by renewable energy, or intrigued by environmental education, there’s an internship here that perfectly suits your interests.
31 Environmental Internships for High School Students
1. Yocket High School Summer Internship Program
The Yocket High School Summer Internship is an intensive 4-week virtual program providing the skills and knowledge to thrive in this crucial field. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with real-world challenges, like analyzing environmental data or developing sustainable solutions through projects. Expert mentors will be by your side every step of the way, guiding you from project completion to crafting a strong college application that highlights your newfound expertise.
The program goes beyond just technical skills. Weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments designed to prepare you for college environmental science programs, an official letter of recommendation, and a director-signed certificate will strengthen your academic profile and impress potential employers. With limited spots available for only 50 students and applications closing soon, don’t miss this opportunity to join a global network of passionate students and take the first step toward a rewarding career in environmental science.
2. Art, Community, Education, and Science (ACES) Internship, Wave Hill
Wave Hill offers a year-long internship program, ACES (Art, Community, Education, and Science), for high school students passionate about arts and science education. Throughout the 13-month program, interns gain experience by assisting with two of Wave Hill’s visitor programs. This hands-on involvement includes everything from setting up and cleaning up after art-making events inspired by nature to directly engaging with visitors by providing information and helping prepare educational displays.
Beyond these practical skills, ACES interns also participate in workshops focused on college readiness and STEAM fields. The program even includes field trips to broaden their horizons and help them explore potential career paths. This comprehensive program is open to students 16 years of age or older and offers a competitive hourly wage of $15. Work schedules are flexible, ranging from 4 to 8 hours per weekend, with a maximum of 14 hours.
3. Alaska Songbird Institute (ASI) High School Summer Internship
The Alaska Songbird Institute (ASI) offers a ten-week summer internship program for high school students aged 14–18. Interns will gain hands-on experience in bird research and conservation by assisting biologists and other interns with the Swallow Ecology Project. This project involves monitoring up to 70 active Tree Swallow nests throughout the nesting cycle, from egg laying to when the young birds fledge.
Responsibilities include checking nest boxes, recording and managing data on the swallows, and even assisting with bird capture and banding for interns who show a quick grasp of the skills. While the internship requires a minimum commitment of 8–10 hours per week, students with a strong work ethic and a passion for birds may have the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities.
4. Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC) Youth Conservation Crews
The Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC) Youth Conservation Crews offer an opportunity for young people aged 16–18 to combine service and learning in the outdoors. Through hands-on projects like trail building and maintenance, habitat improvement, and reforestation, crews contribute directly to conservation efforts.
Crew members also participate in educational programs that foster a deeper understanding of the environment and professional development opportunities that can help shape future careers. While hard work, sweat, and encounters with nature’s less pleasant aspects are to be expected, ACC Youth Conservation Crews promise a rewarding experience for those who are up to the challenge. With rolling admissions, there’s no deadline to apply, so interested young adults can inquire at any time.
5. Blue Economy Internship Program (BEIP)
The Blue Economy Internship Program (BEIP) is offered by the Marine Biological Laboratory. It is a chance for Massachusetts students (public high school, college, and university) over 16 years old to gain valuable experience in the Blue Economy. This field focuses on using the ocean’s resources for economic benefit while also protecting the environment and creating jobs.
BEIP internships are paid and provide hands-on learning opportunities in various fields related to the Blue Economy and marine sciences. While specific dates and deadlines vary, interested students should check the Marine Biological Laboratory website for current offerings.
6. Brooklyn College STEM Research Academy
Brooklyn College’s STEM Research Academy offers a six-week pre-college program focused on urban aquatic ecology. High school students with a passion for science and research will have the chance to work on the scientific method alongside professionals, undergraduate mentors, and fellow peers. Through hands-on experiences, they’ll explore various aspects of research, from reviewing scientific literature to conducting lab and field experiments, collecting data, and analyzing their findings.
The program culminates in presentations where students show their research. This is just the first step, though. Upon successful completion, students become eligible to apply for a prestigious summer internship where they’ll join a research team at Brooklyn College’s labs, gaining experience and even receiving a $1,000 stipend.
7. Bronx Zoo Project TRUE, Wildlife Conservation Society
Run by the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo Education team alongside Fordham University, Project TRUE offers a summer program for Bronx high school sophomores and juniors. Interns get to work side-by-side with scientists, assisting with research projects that explore the wildlife within New York City. From studying mammal distribution and bird communities to water quality and invasive species management, Project TRUE provides hands-on experience in a range of ecological topics.
Interns also contribute to the project’s social media channels and gain work experience at the Bronx Zoo, which is the global headquarters of the Wildlife Conservation Society. Project TRUE goes a step further by offering comprehensive training in scientific research methods, helping interns build professional networks, and even assisting with college preparation. As an added benefit, participants receive compensation for their time commitment, ensuring a rewarding and enriching summer experience.
8. Clean Water Ambassador Internships, Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area
The Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area offers an internship program called Clean Water Ambassadors. This paid program digs deep into local environmental issues, solutions, and careers focused on protecting clean water.
Throughout the internship, you will gain experience in both field and office settings. Field trips and workshops will equip you with knowledge about environmental and social justice issues related to clean water. You will also have the opportunity to meet with environmental professionals and develop communication skills through public speaking and professional writing assignments.
One of the most impactful aspects of the program is the creation of a community education plan. Interns will work on developing a strategy to teach their communities about the importance of clean water.
9. Conservation Corps North Carolina Youth Conservation Crews
The Conservation Corps North Carolina Youth Conservation Crews offer high school students an opportunity to give back to the environment through hands-on conservation projects across the state. Crew members work alongside two leaders in teams of 4–6 for durations ranging from three to five weeks. Project types vary but can include trail building, removing invasive species, and restoring habitats.
The program offers both day crews, where participants return home each evening, and camping crews, where members work and live together for the entire session. Regardless of crew type, all participants dedicate 40 hours a week, working Monday through Friday.
10. Environmentor Internship, Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity (RISE)
The Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity (RISE) offers a five-week summer internship program called Environmentor. High school students will work alongside scientists from local universities on research projects focused on the Rockaway shoreline. This is a paid opportunity with a stipend of up to $1,200, and interns can also earn community service hours through participation in RISE’s weekend events. In addition to the research, the program includes water safety and CPR training, as well as fun outdoor activities like kayaking, surfing, and biking.
11. EPA Internship Programs in Pollution Prevention
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers Pollution Prevention (P2) internship opportunities throughout the country. These internships provide hands-on experience in protecting public health and the environment. You’ll have the chance to work on projects in various fields, such as energy conservation, sustainability initiatives, and waste reduction. Keep in mind that specific details on program dates, compensation, and eligibility requirements will differ depending on the chosen internship location and program.
12. Girls in Science
Girls in Science is a fully funded program that offers a chance to learn more about STEAM with a focus on environmental research. Over two week-long sessions in July and August, participants will work alongside inspiring female researchers, getting hands-on experience collecting data and exploring solutions to real-world environmental challenges. The program culminates with a student-led presentation, allowing participants to share their newfound knowledge and experiences with their school or community.
13. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an eight-week paid internship designed to introduce high school juniors and seniors to fisheries science. This program specifically targets students from communities traditionally underrepresented in the fisheries profession.
Hutton Scholars, as the participating interns are called, are paired with experienced fisheries professionals for mentorship throughout the program. This mentorship provides students with firsthand experience. They gain hands-on training in both laboratory and field settings, conducting research, and assisting with resource conservation and management projects.
The program offers a competitive stipend of $3,000 to participating students in recognition of their commitment. Additionally, Hutton Scholars are treated to an all-expense-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit, an incredible opportunity to connect with peers and professionals from across the country.
14. Joint Science Education Project (JSEP) In-Person Program
The Joint Science Education Project (JSEP) is a three-week in-person program in Greenland designed to spark a passion for polar science and STEM fields in high school juniors entering their junior year. This international collaboration between Greenland, Denmark, and the US allows students to spend the first two weeks in field research at sites around Kangerlussuaq, western Greenland. Here, they’ll gain hands-on experience by exploring environmental topics, developing field methods, conducting research projects, and presenting their findings.
To culminate the program, students will travel to the U.S. Summit Station at the peak of the Greenland Ice Sheet for a week dedicated to learning about climate science, ice core extraction, and the study of glaciers (glaciology). The program covers all travel costs (except passports) and even provides a $1,500 stipend to help offset the cost of any necessary equipment.
15. Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Secondary School Field Research Program (SSFRP)
The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory’s Secondary School Field Research Program (SSFRP) is a six-week summer program designed to challenge and inspire high school students. Participants collaborate with undergraduate mentors and science teachers on real-world research projects, digging deep into subjects like climate, geology, earth systems, and ecology.
The program offers a blend of hands-on field experiences, potentially involving hot and wet days, with laboratory work, culminating in the creation of a research poster and presentation at a symposium. While demanding, SSFRP provides a $1,400 stipend and an unforgettable opportunity to explore the natural world alongside leading researchers.
16. Linking Individuals to Their Natural Community (LINC) Summer Program
The Linking Individuals to Their Natural Community (LINC) Summer Program is a six-week adventure designed for Bay Area high school students. Focused on community building, service learning, and exploration, LINC offers a blend of hands-on experiences and personal development. Students will give back through service projects like trail work and habitat restoration, strengthening teamwork and communication skills.
They’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the environment through exciting activities like camping trips, kayaking adventures, and outdoor cooking, all while learning about local, state, and national parks. To top it off, students who complete the program are eligible for a rewarding $2,300 education award.
17. NASA OSTEM Internship
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers an opportunity for high school and undergraduate students (16 years of age and older) to gain hands-on experience through paid internships. These internships take place across various NASA facilities nationwide and include a wide range of projects.
From engineering challenges to real-world scientific endeavors like observing global ocean biology, aerosols, and clouds, OSTEM internships allow students to work on NASA’s ongoing missions. Importantly, these internships are open to U.S. citizens only, and participants receive a stipend that reflects their academic level and the duration of their internship.
18. NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador Program
The NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador program helps students become active leaders in ocean conservation. Selected ambassadors work on projects within their communities to raise awareness and inspire action on environmental and ocean health issues. This could involve organizing beach cleanups, educational campaigns, or other creative initiatives.
The program provides ambassadors with toolkits, presentations, and expert guidance from NOAA scientists and science communicators. Through this experience, students gain valuable knowledge about the ocean and develop essential life skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication. Additionally, they build a supportive network of peers and professionals who share their passion for protecting our blue planet.
19. Ranger Conservation Corps Internship, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation offers the Ranger Conservation Corps Internship. Throughout the eight-week program, interns gain hands-on experience working alongside Urban Park Rangers on environmental restoration projects in the city’s flagship parks. This after-school program allows for flexible scheduling, with interns contributing 2 to 2.5 hours each week. The program also offers exciting field trips like canoeing and overnight camping, making it a well-rounded introduction to urban conservation efforts. With rolling admissions, interested students can apply anytime to secure a spot.
20. Seattle Aquarium Youth Ocean Advocates
The Seattle Aquarium’s Youth Ocean Advocates program empowers high school students to become champions for our ocean. If you’re passionate about marine life and conservation, this program is for you! You’ll gain knowledge about the ocean and hone your advocacy skills. Alongside hands-on experiences like beach cleanups (summer volunteers contribute at least 20 activities, each 3-5 hours long), you’ll learn to directly inspire aquarium visitors and create engaging social media content to raise awareness for ocean conservation efforts.
21. Shaw Institute for Field Training (SIFT)
The Shaw Institute for Field Training (SIFT) is a year-long program designed for high school students entering grades 10–12. It immerses participants in hands-on scientific exploration of the natural world throughout all four seasons. Over the course of the program, students will work on a variety of real-world projects in areas like invasive species management, habitat restoration, and conducting plant and animal inventories.
Interns will gain experience in the field by setting up and breaking down experiments, collecting data, and entering it for analysis. This program even offers participants a stipend to recognize their contributions.
22. Southwest Conservation Corps Youth Conservation Crew Program
The Southwest Conservation Corps Youth Conservation Crew Program offers an opportunity to combine environmental service with personal growth. Accepted students will spend four to five weeks working alongside experienced crew leaders in teams of 6–8. These crews work on important conservation projects in their local communities, focusing on tasks like removing invasive plants, planting trees, maintaining trails, and even assisting with community clean-up efforts. Not only will participants gain valuable hands-on experience and contribute to a greener future, but they’ll also earn $14.42 per hour while working 32–36 hours a week.
23. TeenNat
TeenNat is a six-week summer program designed for high school students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade. This program goes beyond textbook science, offering students a chance to get involved in real-world research alongside professionals. Through hands-on learning, participants gain skills in data collection, plant and animal identification, and safe hiking practices.
TeenNat fosters a deeper appreciation for science by turning it into a practical and exciting experience. Be prepared for physical challenges, as the program involves daily hikes of up to four miles with gear in potentially steep and uneven terrain. On the bright side, participation can earn students up to 50 hours of community service credit.
24. Teen Research and Education in Environmental Science (TREES) Program, UPenn Perelman School of Medicine
The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania offers a summer program called Teen Research and Education in Environmental Science (TREES). This free program is a four-week intensive experience for just eight high school students, chosen annually. Students will first gain hands-on experience in a lab setting, learning essential laboratory techniques. Then, under the guidance of individual mentors, they will work on their independent research projects focused on environmental issues.
Throughout the program, participants will also attend seminars by environmental experts, visit environmentally significant locations, and participate in activities designed to prepare them for college and explore potential careers in environmental science. The program culminates with students presenting their research findings at a public forum.
25. Tree Trust Summer Youth Employment Program
Minnesota teens looking for a fun and rewarding summer experience should check out the Tree Trust Summer Youth Employment Program. This eight-week program is open to students aged 14–21 residing in Hennepin, Dakota, Ramsey, or Washington Counties. Participants will spend their summers working outdoors on construction and landscaping projects in parks, trails, and nature centers.
Supervised by trained staff, they’ll gain job skills in teamwork, communication, and environmental stewardship, all while earning a competitive wage of $12 per hour. This translates to over $2,000 for the summer, making it a great way to combine summer fun with work experience.
26. University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Geosciences Program
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) offers an opportunity for graduating high school seniors interested in geosciences through their Geosciences Bridge Program. This six-week paid internship, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Center (LMRCSC) at UMES, introduces students to ocean sciences, atmospheric sciences, and geographic information systems (GIS).
While gaining hands-on experience, interns also participate in workshops to strengthen their math skills and prepare for the transition to college life. The program fully immerses participants in the college experience by providing on-campus housing with meals, a stipend, and even two for-credit college courses.
27. Vermont Audobon Junior Conservation Technician (JCT) Program
The Vermont Audubon Junior Conservation Technician (JCT) program is an opportunity for high school students to learn about conservation. Working alongside experienced professionals, students gain skills in outdoor and environmental education, becoming naturalists in the process.
Through hands-on projects like bird banding, native plant gardening, and invasive species removal, they learn vital techniques for habitat and wildlife conservation. This program not only builds their resumes with concrete experience but also fosters a deeper understanding of the natural world and how to protect it.
28. Vermont Youth Conservation Corps (VYCC) Youth Crew and Young Adult Crew
The Vermont Youth Conservation Corps (VYCC) offers paid summer positions for young adults and high schoolers (15 years and older) in their Youth Crew and Young Adult Crew programs. These programs run from June to August, with application deadlines on a rolling basis. As a VYCC crew member, you’ll spend your summer in the outdoors, learning skills like building and maintaining trails, improving forest and waterway health, and even growing organic vegetables.
You’ll also gain valuable life experiences, develop teamwork skills, build a network of like-minded peers, learn to work in challenging environments, and foster a sense of professionalism.
29. Westmoreland Sanctuary High School Internship
The Westmoreland Sanctuary’s high school internship program delves into pond and forest ecology, invasive species management, and animal anatomy over six weeks. You’ll gain experience working alongside sanctuary staff and interacting with the public, all while developing essential soft skills like communication, critical thinking, and teamwork.
Be prepared to collaborate with fellow interns, get your hands dirty on projects like building deer fences and testing water quality, and be adaptable to working outdoors in all weather conditions. This internship is an opportunity for high school seniors to gain first-hand experience in environmental science and build a strong foundation for future endeavors.
30. Young Scholars Internship Program (YSP)
The Young Scholars Internship Program (YSP) is an opportunity for high school students with a passion for agriculture, food, and environmental sciences. This paid five-week program runs from May 29th to July 12th and is open to students over 16 years old. Participants will gain hands-on experience through 30 hours a week of research guided by faculty mentors.
In addition to research, YSP offers workshops, field trips to agricultural operations, and career exploration activities, giving students a well-rounded introduction to the exciting world of agricultural sciences.
31. Young Investigators
Stanford’s Doerr School of Sustainability offers the Young Investigators program. It is an enriching summer internship specifically designed for local high school students. This program provides hands-on research experience in a lab setting, with high school students working alongside graduate students, postdocs, and lab managers.
Through this experience, students gain insights into the earth and environmental sciences, which fosters a deeper understanding of these critical fields. The program is mutually beneficial, as graduate student mentors develop their supervisory skills while guiding the next generation of researchers.
From the Desk of Yocket
Environmental internships provide a blend of academic exploration and real-world experience. In the classroom, environmental science can feel theoretical, but internships bridge that gap by allowing you to see environmental issues firsthand. Imagine participating in habitat restoration, assisting with water quality monitoring, or learning about sustainable practices at a local farm. These experiences solidify classroom knowledge and spark a passion for environmental problem-solving.
Beyond the academic benefits, environmental internships also help you develop valuable skills. You gain experience in teamwork, communication, and critical thinking as you collaborate with professionals and work on real-world challenges. Internships can also boost your self-confidence and expose you to potential career paths you may not have considered before. Whether it’s a passion for research, field ecology, or environmental education, these internships can play a significant role in shaping your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible for an environmental internship in high school?
Yes, you are! Many organizations offer internships specifically for high school students who are interested in the environment. These programs provide hands-on experience and can help you solidify your career path.
What kind of environmental internships are available?
There are internships available in a variety of environmental fields. You can work in conservation, research, education, sustainability, and more. The specific responsibilities will vary depending on the organization, but most internships will give you a chance to learn about environmental issues and contribute to making a positive impact.
How can I make my internship application stand out?
Research the organization and tailor your resume and cover letter to their specific mission. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences, and be enthusiastic about your interest in environmental issues. Don’t be afraid to follow up after submitting your application.