Summer Ecology Project Associate Summer Ecology Project Associate Resource Environmental Soluti[...]

Seeds Renewables; Louisville (KY); Hybrid; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological restoration firm in Louisville, Kentucky is hiring a Summer Ecology Project Associate (Ecology Intern) to assist in ecological restoration projects. This internship involves significant fieldwork, including stream and wetland monitoring, data collection, and assisting with technical documentation. Ideal candidates are pursuing a degree in Environmental Science or a related field and possess a strong interest in ecology and fieldwork. The position requires physical stamina as it involves outdoor activities in diverse conditions.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree related to the environment or ecology.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying conditions.
• Ability to interpret field maps and follow protocols.

Responsibilities

• Support fieldwork including stream and wetland monitoring.
• Assist in data entry and technical report preparation.
• Participate in biological surveys and vegetation assessments.

Skills

Environmental Science

Ecology

Biology

Natural Resource Management

Field data collection

Attention to detail

Clear communication

Education

Currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, or related field

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

GPS units

Job description

At RES, we’re looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key—we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives. In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges. If you’re intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you’ll find your place here.

RES is currently accepting applications for a Summer Ecology Project Associate (Ecology Intern) based in our Louisville, Kentucky office. In this role, you’ll work alongside ecologists, engineers, and regulatory professionals to support stream and wetland restoration projects across Kentucky. You’ll spend most of your time outdoors collecting field data, with additional time supporting data entry and technical documentation.

This is a hands‑on internship designed for someone who loves fieldwork, is eager to learn, and wants real experience in ecological restoration.

What You’ll Do

Fieldwork (approximately 75%)

• Stream and wetland delineation support
• Vegetation monitoring and restoration planting assessments
• Biological surveys and geomorphic stream surveys
• Hydrologic monitoring (stream flow, flood, and groundwater-related measurements)
• Downloading and maintaining field gauges/devices
• Collecting field data using GPS and/or mobile field applications

Office/Technical Support (approximately 25%)

• Data entry, organization, and basic QA/QC
• Technical report preparation and documentation support
• Other restoration site maintenance/management tasks as assigned

What You’ll Learn

You’ll gain exposure to:

• Wetland and stream mitigation in Kentucky
• Wetland and stream restoration practices and common construction/monitoring approaches
• Riparian vegetation and restoration plantings
• KY native vegetation identification (especially trees)
• Exotic and invasive plant identification

Field Conditions & Travel Expectations

This position is field-intensive and performed rain or shine. You should be prepared to:

• Work outdoors in hot, cold, wet, and/or humid conditions
• Walk long distances and traverse uneven terrain through thick vegetation
• Climb, bend, kneel, lift/carry equipment, and perform sustained physical activity
• Travel extensively across Kentucky, including overnight stays

Required Qualifications

We’d love to talk with you if you have many of the following:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resource Management, or a related field
• Interest in ecological restoration and comfort working outdoors in variable conditions
• Ability to interpret field maps and follow field protocols
• Strong attention to detail for accurate data collection and data entry
• Clear communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented working style

Preferred Qualifications (What Will Help You Stand Out)

• Experience using ArcGIS Pro (ArcPro)
• Experience with surveying and/or field equipment (e.g., GPS units)
• Academic or professional experience related to ecological restoration
• Biological survey experience
• Strong plant identification experience (native and invasive species)

RES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.