Environmental Health & Safety Internship - Summer 2027

Duke Energy; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 100,000 - 134,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing stipend

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Duke Energy in Charlotte, NC invites energetic science students to join its Environmental Services Internship. This 10–12 week program offers hands-on experience in environmental monitoring, regulatory compliance, and data reporting within the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Department.

You will assist with water quality monitoring near Duke Energy properties, field sampling, and data analysis, while collaborating with cross‑functional teams.

Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled and pursuing a bachelor's or master's in Environmental Science, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Ecology, or related major.
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Must not graduate prior to August 2027.

Responsibilities

• Water Quality Monitoring: assist team staff with water monitoring near Duke Energy properties, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
• Field Support: participate in field preparations, equipment maintenance, and sample collection, including aquatic plant surveys, fisheries monitoring, and meteorological instrumentation maintenance.
• Data Analysis: support data analysis and bottle preparations, helping to interpret and report environmental data accurately.
• Environmental Compliance: work on projects related to environmental governance and compliance, gaining insight into regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: collaborate with various teams within the Environmental, Health, and Safety Department, gaining a comprehensive view of environmental management within the energy sector.

Skills

Data analysis

Environmental monitoring

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Time management

Fieldwork readiness

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Environmental Science/Geology/Biology/Chemistry/Natural Sciences/Ecology

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives.

Build an exciting, rewarding career with us – help us make a difference for millions of people every day.

Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits.

About Us

Duke Energy, one of the largest electric powers holding company in the U.S., is a Fortune 150 company dedicated to driving the future of reliable, affordable and cleaner energy. Join us in our mission to build a smarter energy future and help drive our transition to net‑zero methane emissions by 2030 and net‑zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050.

Why Duke Energy?

• Career Development: Duke Energy provides extensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career development resources to help students grow professionally.
• Growth and Reputation: As one of the largest energy companies in the U.S., Duke Energy offers job growth and a reputable name in the industry, which can be advantageous for future career prospects.
• Work-Life Balance: The company supports a healthy work-life balance with flexible work schedules, remote work options, and employee wellness programs.

Program Locations for 2027

Asheville, NC; Charlotte, NC; Huntersville, NC; St Petersburg, FL.

Potential opportunities at locations across our footprint

North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Florida.

You will be able to provide your location preferences in the application questions.

Internship Overview

Are you an energetic, hardworking science student with a passion for the electric power industry and environmental sustainability?

Duke Energy’s Environmental Services Internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in the Environmental, Health, and Safety Department.

You will assist with essential environmental monitoring and compliance tasks, contributing to our mission of sustainability and environmental management.

Key Responsibilities

• Water Quality Monitoring: Assist team staff with water monitoring near Duke Energy properties, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
• Field Support: Participate in field preparations, equipment maintenance, and sample collection, including aquatic plant surveys, fisheries monitoring, and meteorological instrumentation maintenance.
• Data Analysis: Support data analysis and bottle preparations, helping to interpret and report environmental data accurately.
• Environmental Compliance: Work on projects related to environmental governance and compliance, gaining insight into regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with various teams within the Environmental, Health, and Safety Department, gaining a comprehensive view of environmental management within the energy sector.

See below for specific information on the types of programs that are offered within our EHS department.

Take notes of what you are interested in, we’ll ask you about this later in the application questions!

Water Resources Group - A successful candidate will assist Water Resources staff with biological sampling efforts that could include electrofishing, seining, gill netting, and macroinvertebrate sampling on waterbodies near Duke Energy properties in the Carolinas. Intern will also assist with equipment maintenance, field preparations, and other sampling duties as requested. In addition to fisheries work, intern will support various field and office work activities related to other environmental projects as needed.

Environmental Services - The successful candidate will assist team staff with following lab procedures supporting Duke Energy facilities and properties in the Carolinas. The Intern will also assist with equipment maintenance, bottle preparations, and other sampling duties as requested.

Field Support - The candidate will assist Duke Energy by supporting tasks to that keep the generating facilities in compliance. This may include water quality sampling, facilitating inspections, and attending trainings. This position is considered on‑site and local travel will be required.

Basic/Required Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled and pursuing a bachelor's or master's in Environmental Science, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Ecology, or related major.
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Must not graduate prior to August 2027.

Desired Qualifications

• Proficiency in data analysis, environmental monitoring techniques, and basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams to achieve common goals.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to manage tasks efficiently and accurately.
• Willingness and ability to conduct fieldwork, sometimes under varying weather conditions.
• A strong interest in pursuing a career in the energy industry and environmental management.

Working Conditions

Hybrid and onsite work environment opportunities Housing stipend available when applicable Some opportunities require a valid driver’s license. Reliable, consistent transportation is required to ensure timely arrival at the applicable facility. Depending on work location, exposure to mechanical, electrical, noisy and/or other hazards Depending on work location, may be required to meet requirements for unescorted access/security clearance. Required to wear personal protective equipment (hardhat, safety glasses, appropriate clothing, ear plugs, fall protection, etc.), as needed. Potential travel to project sites Many of our opportunities require a 40‑hour work week. Internship/Co‑op summer session length is 10‑12 weeks.

What You’ll Get

• Hands‑On Experience: Engage in impactful projects that contribute to Duke Energy’s innovative initiatives.
• Mentorship and Growth: Receive mentorship from industry professionals and participate in training sessions to enhance your skills.
• Networking Opportunities: Build lasting connections with peers, mentors, and leaders in the energy sector.
• Competitive Stipend: Earn a competitive stipend while gaining invaluable experience.
• Professional Development: Access to workshops and resources to support your academic and career growth.

Join us this summer at Duke Energy and be a part of a team that’s lighting the way to a brighter, more innovative, sustainable future!

Travel Requirements

Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable) No Represented/Union Position No Visa Sponsored Position No. This is not a Visa Sponsored Position. This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment‑based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.

Duke Energy values ideas that come from a diverse and inclusive workforce, and we’re dedicated to providing a work environment where all people are valued, respected and able to reach their full potential. Duke Energy is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, including but not limited to lactation, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, medical condition, military status, or protected veteran status. Duke Energy complies with all applicable state, federal and local laws, regulations and ordinances prohibiting discrimination.