Grid Services Vegetation & Natural Resource Intern

Duke Energy; Spartanburg (SC); Hybrid; USD 4,000 - 6,500; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing stipend

Mentorship program

Competitive stipend

Job summary

Duke Energy in South Carolina is seeking an energetic student for a Vegetation Management internship within the Grid Services and Environmental Health & Safety teams. You will review maps, assist with field assessments, and support environmental reviews on upcoming VM work plans.

Gain hands-on experience with mentoring from VM Foresters and program managers, participate in desktop reviews using Environmental Checklists, and contribute to projects that support a safer, more sustainable energy

Qualifications

• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency in use of computers.
• Previous related work experience.
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities through effective decision making.
• Works effectively with others from diverse backgrounds to achieve common goal.
• Ability to deliver superior results within allocated time through effective prioritization, scheduling, planning and execution of assigned work.

Responsibilities

• Review maps of upcoming VM work plans to identify and document potential environmentally sensitive interactions.
• Work closely with VM System Forester, VM Program Managers, and Environmental and Natural Resource team.
• Assist with field assessments, protected bat roost surveys, and remote sensing field validations.
• Utilize Environmental Checklist to perform desktop reviews of VM work plan maps.
• Develop positive working relationships and seek guidance from mentor or supervisor as needed.
• Continuously improve job-related, technical, and professional knowledge and skills.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

BA/BS in Natural Resources or related field

Tools

GIS

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 carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050.

Why Duke Energy?

Here are the top 3 reasons why working at Duke Energy as a college student is the number one choice for you:

1. Career Development: Duke Energy provides extensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career development resources to help students grow professionally.

2. 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.

3. Work-Life Balance: The company supports a healthy work-life balance with flexible work schedules, remote work options, and employee wellness programs.

Basic/Required Qualifications

• Enrolled and pursuing an ABET-accredited Bachelor's or Master's degree in Natural Resources or related field.
• Must not graduate prior to August 2027
• Cumulative college GPA of 2.75 or higher

As an intern, you will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and learn from experienced professionals.

Program Locations for 2026:

Opportunities at locations in South Carolina and North Carolina

Duke Energy is seeking an energetic, hardworking student with an interest in the electric power industry currently pursuing a degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Management, GIS, or a related field. This position is in the Grid Services Vegetation Management organization and the Environmental Health and Safety, Natural Resource organization.

Vegetation Management -

This organization is responsible for driving strategies that reduce vegetation costs, drive efficiencies in processes, operations, and interactions with other lines of business.

Environmental Health and Safety -

This group provides support of state and federal environmental regulations, permits siting, licensing/relicensing, environmental review, and natural resources assessments/surveys for vegetation management and other business unit related work throughout the Carolinas.

• The successful candidate will primarily assist the Vegetation Management team by reviewing maps of upcoming work plans to identify and document potential environmentally sensitive interactions.
• The intern will work closely with the VM System Forester, VM Program Managers, and the Environmental and Natural Resource team.
• Other job functions may include but not limited to field assessments, protected bat roost surveys, and remote sensing field validations.
• Utilize the Environmental Checklist to perform detailed desktop reviews of VM work plan maps to identify and document potential environmentally sensitive interactions. Develop positive working relationships.
• Willingness to make sufficient choices and decisions, with some guidance or direction from a mentor or supervisor.
• Strive to continually improve job-related, technical, and professional knowledge as well as skills and performance.
• Reviews mapping data for quality and accuracy

Preferred Majors:

Natural Resource Management, Forestry, Wildlife Management, Fisheries, Environmental Sciences

Desired Qualifications

• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher
• Demonstrated technical proficiency in use of computers
• Previous related work experience
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to provide the quantity and quality of work necessary to reach an accomplishment.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities through effective decision making.
• Works effectively with others from diverse backgrounds to achieve common goal.
• Ability to deliver superior results within allocated time through effective prioritization, scheduling, planning and execution of assigned work.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid and onsite work environment opportunities
• Housing stipend available when applicable
• Some opportunities require a valid driver's license.
• 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
• Internship/Co-op summer session length is 10-12 weeks
• Valid drivers license

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

• 5-15%
• Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)
• No Represented/Union Position
• No 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.