Mining Environmental Field Intern - Knox District Mining Office (College)

Internships with the Department of Environmental Protection offer a unique chance for students to immerse themselves in the agency's diverse environmental protection initiatives. These programs are designed to advance our mission of safeguarding Pennsylvania's air, land, and water from pollution while ensuring the health and safety of its residents through a cleaner environment. By participating in these internships, students will not only gain hands-on experience in public service but also develop skills and knowledge that can be invaluable for their future careers. If you are passionate about making a difference and eager to acquire practical experience that will enhance your professional journey after graduation, we encourage you to apply today!

The intern will play a crucial role in supporting the identification, mapping, and sampling of water at coal mining sites predominantly situated in Butler, Clarion, Jefferson, and Elk counties. These sites are characterized by post-mining drainage, for which the Department is tasked with ensuring effective water treatment through the engagement of third-party contractors funded by the Department. In addition to these responsibilities, the intern will collaborate with inspectors to gather water samples from both active coal and industrial minerals mining operations. This hands-on experience will provide the intern with valuable insights into environmental monitoring and the complexities of water management in the mining sector.

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

• Full-time internship that will run 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 will not have the option to telework in this position.
• 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

Additional Requirements:

• Current full-time enrollment in a bachelor's degree or advanced degree program in one of the following acceptable majors:
  • Engineering
  • Geology
  • 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).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• 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.