What are the responsibilities and job description for the Environmental Engineering Intern (Midwest) position at Resource Environmental Solutions LLC?
Overview
RES is seeking an Environmental Engineering Intern to join our dynamic team in Chicago, IL. This internship offers hands-on experience in environmental engineering, ecological restoration, and hydrological modeling, providing exposure to a wide range of practical applications. You will work closely with experts across various teams, including engineering, ecology, and GIS, to support meaningful projects that contribute to environmental sustainability.
This internship provides a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects in the growing field of ecological restoration. You’ll work alongside a passionate and experienced team dedicated to environmental sustainability while gaining valuable skills to jump-start your career.
Our internships typically run from late May to late August and require a commitment of 40 hours per week. This is a two-year program, offering the opportunity to return for a second summer. During your second year, you'll engage in more advanced learning, including regulatory processes, project management, and value engineering.
Join us in shaping the future of environmental restoration. Submit your application and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career in environmental engineering.
What your day-to-day might look like?
As an Environmental Engineering Intern, your responsibilities will encompass a dynamic mix of fieldwork, data analysis, and design support.
In the Field Surveys and Data Collection phase, you will collect essential data on stream flow, sediment transport, stream cross-sections, longitudinal stream profiles, and streambed material sampling. Using GPS and other surveying equipment, you’ll conduct topographic surveys to support restoration designs. Additionally, you’ll measure stream velocity, discharge, and sediment load to evaluate stream health. Collaboration with the Ecology and Ecology Team will provide opportunities to gather critical data on vegetation, soil, and water quality.
For Hydrologic and Hydraulic Analysis and Modeling, you’ll assist in modeling using software such as Storm CAD, HEC-RAS, or SWMM to simulate stream flows and analyze floodplains. This work includes watershed hydrology analyses to estimate runoff volumes, infiltration rates, and peak flows. You’ll analyze water quality metrics like nutrient loading, turbidity, and sediment transport and contribute to risk analysis and flood frequency assessments.
In the Design Support phase, you’ll help create preliminary and detailed designs for stream restoration and stormwater infrstructure projects using AutoCAD Civil 3D. Your role will include designing and sizing in-stream structures such as riffles, pools, and log jams to enhance habitat functionality. You’ll also assist in preparing grading plans, erosion control measures, and bank stabilization techniques.
Finally, in GIS and Mapping, you’ll utilize GIS tools to analyze and map watershed characteristics, including land use, topography, and hydrological data. Your work will also involve creating maps to support environmental assessments and visually illustrate design plans.
This combination of activities ensures a rich and varied experience, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to impactful environmental projects.
Qualifications
We would like to talk to you if you have many of the following:
- Currently pursuing a degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or a related field.
- Familiarity with GIS and mapping tools.
- Keen interest in ecological restoration and sustainable development.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in both office and field settings.
VEVRAA Federal Contractor
RES is an equal opportunity employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state or local law
