Communications and Outreach Intern - Central Office, Chesapeake Bay Division (College)

Internships through the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) inspire an exciting opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience and assist with a wide-range of environmental protection activities and initiatives involving various program areas within the agency. We are seeking ambitious and dedicated interns who are eager join us in our mission to protect Pennsylvania's air, land, and water from pollution and provide for the health and safety of its citizens through a cleaner environment. Apply today and start building a strong foundation for a fascinating and fulfilling career in public service!

As a Communications and Outreach Intern, you will acquire the skills necessary to provide support and assistance with Chesapeake Bay public outreach and communications regarding the enforcement of Pennsylvania's Phase III Watershed Implementation Plan. You will work in collaboration with the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Conservation District Support Sections to communicate and implement priority initiatives outlined in the Countywide Action Plans (CAPs) and meet the required goals of the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) imposed by the EPA. Outlined goals are to facilitate a clear understanding and provide direction for action needed by local governments, point and nonpoint source sector partners, state agencies, and the regulated community. Additional duties will entail data entry and analysis, special project plan reviews, and scheduling and attending meetings, inclusive of documenting minutes and compiling notes. In order to effectively complete these tasks, a comprehensive understanding of web-based processes and a strong attention to detail, communication, and writing skills are essential.

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

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time internship which will occur from 5/1/2026 through 8/28/2026.
• 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 scheduled 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.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• 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 acceptable majors:
  • Computer Science
  • Geographic Information System (GIS)
  • Environmental Science
• An approved major course of study at an accredited college or university
• Freshman year completed by May 2026
• Good academic standing (2.0 GPA or higher)
• Pennsylvania residency or enrollment as a full-time student 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).
• This posting requires submission of a copy of your college transcript(s). Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You may upload your document as an attachment during the application process. You must still complete the application and answer the supplemental questions. All documents MUST be uploaded prior to the submission of your application.
• 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.