Air Quality Operations Intern, Southwest Regional Office (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 an Air Quality Operations Intern with DEP, you will gain proficiency to provide technical support to Southwest Regional Air Quality Operations staff surrounding facility inspections and complaint investigations. You will also learn how to provide efficient follow-up responses regarding inspections and investigations, as well as assist with enforcement actions, monitoring activity, and monitoring equipment maintenance and usage tracking. Special attention must be given towards assessing and maintaining safety equipment. In addition, you will acquire the skills necessary to support operations staff with field activity and assist with updating and maintaining regional databases and files.

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 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
Internship Requirements:

• Current full-time enrollment in a bachelor's degree or advanced degree program in one of the following majors:
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Earth Sciences
  • Geography
• 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 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.