Net Zero Emerging Leaders Intern

LRS Architects, Inc.; Portland (OR); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

LRS Architects is seeking a motivated Sustainability Intern to join its Net Zero Emerging Leaders Internship program for a 12-week experience beginning in January 2027. This part-time opportunity (12–24 hours per week) is designed for a current student or recent graduate interested in sustainable design, building performance, and advancing the built environment toward a net-zero future.

You will work with the Environmental Stewardship Committee to contribute to sustainability initiatives,

Qualifications

• Must be a current student or recent graduate seeking a sustainability-focused role.
• Basic understanding of architectural design and construction principles.
• Interest in sustainability, energy-efficient buildings, and environmentally responsible design.

Responsibilities

• Support Sustainability Action Plan initiatives focused on education, resiliency, and efficiency.
• Develop and share resources to educate employees about sustainability initiatives and client education.
• Identify resources that support improved sustainable design practices across market sectors.
• Research and evaluate building systems and design approaches to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
• Help streamline and automate the firm’s AIA 2030 Commitment reporting using the DDx platform.
• Collaborate with the Environmental Stewardship Committee and other team members to support sustainability goals.

Skills

Architectural design basics

Time management

Communication skills

Sustainability passion

Education

Current student or recent graduate

Tools

Energy modeling tools

Data management software

Job description

Design. People. Trust

Description

Design. People. Trust

LRS Architects is seeking a motivated Sustainability Intern to join our Net Zero Emerging Leaders Internship program for a 12-week experience beginning in January 2027. This part-time opportunity (12–24 hours per week) is designed for a current student or recent graduate interested in sustainable design, building performance, and advancing the built environment toward a net-zero future.

Working with our Environmental Stewardship Committee, you’ll contribute to LRS’s sustainability initiatives, explore ways to improve building performance, and help strengthen how we track and report our progress toward the AIA 2030 Commitment.

What You'll Do

• Support LRS’s Sustainability Action Plan through initiatives focused on education, resiliency, and efficiency
• Education: Help develop and share resources that educate employees about sustainability initiatives, tools, technologies, and client education
• Resiliency: Identify and share resources that support improved sustainable design practices across our market sectors
• Efficiency: Research and evaluate building systems and design approaches that improve energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact
• Help streamline and/or automate the firm’s AIA 2030 Commitment reporting process using the AIA’s Design Data Exchange (DDx) platform
• Collaborate with the Environmental Stewardship Committee and other team members to support the firm’s sustainability goals.

What You'll Bring

• Current enrollment in an educational program or graduation within the past year
• A basic understanding of architectural design and construction principles
• Interest in sustainability, energy-efficient buildings, and environmentally responsible design
• Ability to work independently, manage your time, and complete assigned tasks within established timelines
• Effective communication skills and an interest in collaborating with project teams and office leadership
• Availability to work 12–24 hours per week for 12 weeks beginning in January 2027
• Ability to work in person at least three days per week. A hybrid in-person/remote arrangement is available.

WHY LRS?

At LRS Architects, we believe thoughtful design can make a meaningful difference in the built environment. Our commitment to sustainability is part of how we approach our work, collaborate as a team, and plan for the future.

This internship offers an opportunity to contribute to real sustainability initiatives, gain exposure to architectural practice, and help advance the firm’s efforts toward more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible design.

If you’re a current student or recent graduate who is curious about sustainable design and excited to help shape a more sustainable built environment, we’d love to hear from you!

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE WE VALUE

• Familiarity with sustainability metrics, the AIA 2030 Commitment, and building performance concepts
• Interest in energy use, thermal performance, energy modeling, and other factors that influence sustainable building design
• Experience or familiarity with energy modeling tools, data management, or sustainability software is a plus, but not required
• Curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn and explore new approaches to sustainability.