Environmental Planner Intern- Summer 2026

Environmental Planner Intern

Summer Paid Internship – 2026

Location: Sacramento, California (In-Person)
Organization: Westervelt Ecological Services

🌿 About Us

Westervelt Ecological Services (WES) specializes in the restoration and conservation of wetlands, streams, and endangered species habitats. We develop conservation and mitigation projects that offset environmental impacts from private and public development and infrastructure projects. Our teams work closely with landowners, businesses, government agencies, and land trusts throughout the state of California. Our mission is to provide enduring ecological solutions for the benefit of our partners and the lands we conserve.

📋 Position Overview

Westervelt is seeking a highly motivated intern to support our Entitlement and Ecology teams in the development of mitigation projects. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in environmental planning, ecology, and conservation to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative, professional setting. The ideal candidate is accountable, detail-oriented, and organized; skilled in writing and interpersonal communication; proficient with computers and comfortable working outdoors; and is able to work effectively in a team environment. 

📚 What You’ll Learn & Do

• As an intern, you will work alongside experienced environmental planners, habitat designers, ecologists, land managers, and GIS analysts. 
• You will gain exposure to technical reports and CEQA documentation; local, state, and federal permitting processes; regional conservation programs; wildlife and plant ecology; habitat construction and compliance; and GIS methods and tools. 
• You will also have an opportunity to visit existing and proposed mitigation sites, conduct biological surveys, and attend project meetings to better understand the planning, implementation, and long-term stewardship of our mitigation projects.  

✅ Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Environmental Planning, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Biological Sciences or related program.
• Well-developed communication and people skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment both in an office and out in the field.
• Good computer skills including Excel and Word; organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask.
• Able to perform physical duties when doing field work in an outdoor setting.
• Valid driver's license and able to safely operate a 4-wheel drive truck.

📅 Position Details

• Schedule: Full-time summer internship, Monday–Friday (occasional overtime).
• Pay: $22/hour.
• Duration: Summer 2026.