Summer 2026 Environmental Internship

Environmental Internship – Summer 2026

Location: San Luis Obispo Region (includes Avenal, Chicago Grade, and Cold Canyon Landfills)
Schedule: 20 hours/week to start; potential to increase to 30–40 hours/week based on performance. Option to continue during the school year at 10–15 hours/week.
Pay: $20–25/hour, depending on experience

Overview:

We’re seeking a motivated Environmental Intern to support a variety of field and office-based environmental compliance tasks across our landfills and operations. This internship offers hands-on experience in environmental monitoring, drone operations, data analysis, and regulatory preparation. You’ll work closely with our team, including Dack (Environmental Specialist), Brett O’Connor (Region Engineer), and other site contacts, to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with field monitoring activities and data collection alongside the Landfill Gas Technician.
• Upload and manage environmental data in internal databases.
• Support data evaluation and report writing for compliance and operational insights.
• Operate drones at Avenal, Chicago Grade, and Cold Canyon landfills to capture aerial data.
• Upload drone imagery into Propeller for landfill airspace analysis.
• Help prepare sites for stormwater season through evaluations and equipment readiness.
• Participate in internal environmental audits
• Provide support to Special Waste Sales with data entry, lab review, and scheduling.
• Organize and maintain environmental documentation and regulatory files.
• Assist in drafting and proofreading responses to regulatory agencies.

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability, or a related field.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Interest or experience in drone operations is a plus (training provided if needed).

What You’ll Gain:

• Real-world experience in environmental compliance and operations.
• Exposure to regulatory processes, landfill operations, and sustainability practices.
• Mentorship from experienced environmental professionals.
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful environmental initiatives and potentially continue part-time during the academic year.

To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com . Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest.

We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future".

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.