ENVIRONMENTAL INTERN

The State of Arizona is seeking an Environmental Intern for its Department of Environmental Quality in Phoenix, AZ. This role focuses on evaluating field sampling data, conducting research, drafting reports, and assisting with grant writing. The position is available for full-time remote work within Arizona. Candidates should have a background in environmental science and strong communication skills. The internship offers valuable experience in environmental regulation and project management.
DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

We are looking for results-oriented, driven individuals with a thirst for problem solving.

At Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) our mission is to protect and enhance public health and the environment in Arizona. Through consistent, science-based environmental regulation; and clear, equitable engagement and communication; with integrity, respect and the highest standards of effectiveness and efficiency. Because Arizonans treasure the unique environment of our state and its essential role in sustaining well-being and economic vitality, today and for future generations.

We are currently looking for employees who are committed to our Agency, passionate to excel in their career and engaged in our mission. Only this caliber of employee will be successful in driving our Agency towards accomplishing our mission

ENVIRONMENTAL INTERN

Job Location:

Address: 1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Waste Programs Division

Posting Details:

Salary: $18.00hr

Grade: 4

Closing Date: Open until filled

Job Summary:

The Waste Program Division for the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is seeking applicants for an exciting opportunity for Environmental students to learn how we approach environmental science as a regulatory agency. Our Waste Program team helps drive the ADEQ mission: protecting and enhancing public health and the environment.

Intern Project/Outcome Expected from the Intern:
• Evaluating field sampling data
• Conducting environmental research
• Drafting technical plans and reports
• Assisting with federal grant writing and budget management
• Engaging with Federal, State, and Local Government entities
• GIS data processing

This position is available for remote work on a full-time basis within Arizona (including virtual office arrangements).

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State’s Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Job Duties:

The intern will gain experience leading a project and bring the following to the internship:
• Environmental Foundation: A strong background in environmental science.
• Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills for effective interaction with the Project Manager, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
• Technical Expertise: Proven experience with technical writing and environmental research.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, work independently, meet deadlines, and assist with multiple projects.
• Attention to Detail: Essential for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of data, reports, and deliverables
• Computer Proficiency: Competency in using computer software, including word processing and spreadsheet programs (such as Microsoft Word/Excel or Google Docs/Sheets).

The intern will gain experience leading a project and gain the following from this internship:
• The intern project will perform required tasks within the Cooperative Agreement between EPA and ADEQ under the Comprehensive
• Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) for the Preliminary Assessment/Site Inspection (PA/SI) Program, also known as Site Assessment. The project duties will include:
• Evaluating environmental data collection methods and results.
• Assisting the Project Manager with historical document and desktop research for Site Assessments, utilizing existing databases.
• Supporting the Project Manager in preparing key EPA deliverables, such as technical reports, Sampling and Analysis Plans, or Health and Safety Plans.
• Contributing to the planning and cost budgeting for the next fiscal year’s federal grant cooperative agreement and work plan.
• Engaging in potential outreach activities with local governments or community groups.

Compensation is $18.00 per hour, up to 20 hours per week, with no other benefits provided.

It is up to the discretion of the respective school to provide academic credit.
The internship will begin in Spring 2026. Hours can be adjusted to accommodate class schedules.

Selective Preference(s):
• Intern candidate must be in their Junior or Senior year of a BS/BA or working towards a Masters/PhD program.
• Selective preference will be given to students pursuing a degree in geology, chemistry, environmental sciences, or environmental policy.
• Candidate must have a GPA of 3.0 or better.
• Candidate must have the right to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship.
• Candidate must be at least 18 years old.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits:

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Contact Us:

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting HPO@azdeq.gov.
Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer.