2026 Ecosystem Monitoring Internship Summer Program

Hawai’i Conservation Alliance & Foundation; Hawaii; On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

Hawai’i Conservation Alliance & Foundation is offering a paid summer internship titled '2026 Ecosystem Monitoring Internship Summer Program' for students interested in ecology and conservation. The program will run for 7–8 weeks across Hawai'i Island, focused on ecosystem monitoring and restoration efforts.

Interns will gain hands-on experience while working under the guidance of experienced professionals, including activities such as identifying plant species, collecting ecological data, and assisting directly with restoration projects.

No prior experience is required, making this a perfect learning opportunity for those eager to dive into environmental science.

Qualifications

• Motivated individuals comfortable working outdoors under various weather conditions.
• Physically capable of hiking and camping for 3-4 nights per week.
• Interest in Natural Resources, Conservation, or Environmental Science.

Responsibilities

• Support ecosystem monitoring and conservation initiatives.
• Hike and navigate diverse field sites across Hawaiʻi Island.
• Collect ecological data like vegetation and environmental measurements.
• Assist with restoration efforts including invasive species monitoring.

Skills

Outdoor work comfort

Hiking capability

Interest in Natural Resources

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access)

Job description

Show 2026 Ecosystem Monitoring Internship Summer Program

Forest Solutions provides a wide range of land management services. These include traditional forest management, long-term land use planning, adaptive weed management, and culturally appropriate land stewardship as well as long term financial analysis for forestry.

Opportunity Details

Opportunity Type:

Internships

Opportunity Title:

2026 Ecosystem Monitoring Internship Summer Program

Opportunity Description:

About the Program

Forest Solutions is excited to offer a full-time, paid internship for high school and college students interested in ecology, natural resources, and conservation. This 7–8 week field-based program will run from June 2026 through early August 2026 and will take place across Hawaiʻi Island, from East to West Hawaiʻi.

Interns will support general ecosystem monitoring and conservation initiatives under the guidance of experienced natural resource professionals. The program is designed to provide hands-on field experience in ecological research, applied conservation, and collaborative land stewardship. Participants will engage in activities such as:

• Hiking and navigating remote and diverse field sites across Hawaiʻi Island.
• Identifying native and non-native plant species and assessing habitat conditions.
• Collecting ecological data, including vegetation and environmental measurements.
• Assisting with restoration efforts, such as planting, invasive species monitoring, and site assessments.

The program culminates in an independent project, where interns present their findings to project partners
at the end of the internship.

Qualifications

We are seeking motivated individuals who are:

• Comfortable working outdoors in remote forest locations under various weather conditions.
• Physically capable of hiking over rough terrain and camping for 3-4 nights per week if necessary.
• Interested in or pursuing a career in Natural Resources, Conservation, or Environmental Science—or simply eager to learn more about the environment.

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

No prior experience is necessary, as all skills will be developed during the internship. However, familiarity with the following is a plus:

• Hawaiian native and non-native plant species identification.
• Orienteering and navigation skills.
• Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, Access).
• Basic knowledge of and respect for Hawaiian culture and practices.