Internships are listed alphabetically by sponsoring organizations and are followed by eligibility requirements and a brief description. Most internships listed are for high school students, but some are intended for undergraduates or young professionals. Internships cover a wide variety of subject areas, from environmental restoration to business to social justice. If you have updated information for any of these programs, please contact Becca Kedenburg – education@mtsgreenway.org.
Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust & King County Wastewater Treatment Division – Clean Water Ambassadors
Ages: high school students who are at least 16 years old
Five-week summer internship program for teens who are new to exploring environmental topics and/or who are from communities that are underrepresented in environmental careers. Interns learn about local environmental issues, solutions, and careers focused on clean water in our region. Applications are usually due in mid-May. 2023: $18.43/hour, 28 hours/week, July 17-August 18.
Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust, Pacific Education Institute, and school districts – Youth Engaged in Sustainable Systems (YESS)
Ages: current high school student
Two cohorts of high school students experience working as part of a restoration crew while earning a stipend and graduation credit and exploring green careers. Participants must be a current student in Highline School District or Riverview School District. Applications are usually due in mid-May. 2023: $1,800 stipend, 30 hours/week, July 5-August 11.
Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust, Burien PaRCS, and Dirt Corps – Burien Green Teens
Ages: current high school student living within the Highline School District boundaries
Learn valuable job skills and network with environmental professionals while spending time outdoors with a cohort of teens. Lunch is provided and each intern leaves with a set of restoration tools and gear (including hiking boots, Carhartt pants, Greenway Trust shirt, gloves, first aid kit, and more). Applications are usually due in early June. 2023: $1,200 stipend (or $1,500 for interns returning as assistant leaders), 25 hours/week, August 14-25.
4Culture – Equity in Historic Preservation
Ages: recent college graduates or current students pursuing and undergraduate or graduate degree
Gain research experience related to historic preservation practice in the region, with the goal of exploring ways to strengthen processes to identify, protect, and interpret socially and culturally significant properties. 4Culture is hiring two interns. A background in archival research and documentation of historic properties is preferred, and candidates from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities are especially encouraged to apply. Applications due March 27, 2023. 2023: $7,500 for 300 hours total.
The Boeing Company – various internships
Ages: current undergraduate and graduate college student
Boeing offers paid internships in engineering, supply chain, finance, public relations, information technology, data analytics, sustainability, and other subjects in the Puget Sound and across the world.
Boys and Girls Club of King County – YouthForce TeamWork Intern
Ages 16-20 years old, King County resident
YouthForce places teens in paid internships, coupled with college and career readiness training. Paired with the teamwork, leadership, and life skills youth need to realize their full potential, YouthForce participants are prepared to reach their professional goals for a successful future. Pay as of 2023: unknown.
City of Seattle, Seattle Youth Employment Program – Seattle Youth Employment Program
Low-income Seattle residents ages 16 – 24
The Seattle Youth Employment Program helps youth from low-income households pursue careers that pay well and feel meaningful. Foundations Program: Get paid to attend trainings while preparing for your first or next job and making new connections along the way. Six months, 2-hour weekly sessions, stipend of $300. Pathways Program: Participate in professional training and programs to gain credentials for specific career tracks. 6-8 months, pay is unknown. Applications open July 19 – September 20, 2023.
City of Seattle, Seattle Youth Employment Program – Seattle Youth Employment Program
Low-income Seattle residents ages 16 – 24
The Seattle Youth Employment Program helps youth from low-income households pursue careers that pay well and feel meaningful. SYEP supports young people (ages 16 to 24) from qualifying-income households and communities that experience racial, social, and economic disparities. The goal is to increase youth and young adults’ ability to pursue careers that pay well and are meaningful to them. Learn more about the Foundations, Pathways, and Internships programs. Time commitments, hourly rate or stipend, and application deadlines vary by program.
DIRT Corps – Fall 2023 RainWise Job Training Sessions
Ages: 18+ years old
Learn how to plan, design, build, and maintain Green Storm Water Infrastructure spaces! Five-week training program focused on ecological restoration, green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), and urban forestry. Gain skills that will prepare you to work in landscape maintenance, water quality control, and climate resilience. Learn about Seattle’s RainWise program. Work with a diverse team and have fun! Two sessions to choose from: September 5-October 10 or October 17-November 18. 2023: $20 per hour, 6-10 hours per week.
Doris Duke Charitable Foundation – Doris Duke Conservation Scholars
College undergraduate freshmen and sophomores
This is a two-summer experiential conservation training program for undergraduates interested in careers in conservation and in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field. Scholars take part in applied field research projects, professional internships, mentoring, and form strong professional networks, learning field techniques, leadership, research, and communication skills. Pay as of fall 2022: unknown (the Doris Duke program pays for travel, lodging, and provide a separate stipend for food during the 8-week summer experience).
EarthCorps – Corps Member
Ages 18+
EarthCorps’ service learning program provides participants with an opportunity to grow through hands-on environmental service. EarthCorps has three Corps Programs: EarthCorps Crew, EarthCorps Volunteer, and EarthCorps Specialist. Projects include introduced plant control, native plant installation, trail construction, and slope stabilization. See their website for current openings, stipend amounts, application deadlines, and more.
Green Seattle Partnership – Youth Ambassadors
Ages 15-18
Two teens will serve as Youth Ambassadors (YAs), which is a unique opportunity to gain employment skills, take action around local environmental and social justice issues, and make an impact in your community. YAs will select and carry out a project, with support from the project manager. Applications are due August 25, 2023. 2023: $600 maximum honorarium, 1-hour weekly meetings with project manager, additional project hours. Feeling overwhelmed by so many opportunities? Green Seattle Partnership created a helpful guide!
Highline Public Schools – Highline Internship Program
Students enrolled in the Highline School District
Highline Public Schools offers a variety of teen internship opportunities for its students’ career exploration and growth. Participation requires a permission slip signed by the student’s legal guardian.
Institute for Systems Biology – Laboratory High School Interns and Systems Thinkers in STEM Ambassadors
Ages: 10th and 11th grade
Students work with a variety of specialists and projects, gaining skills in STEM research, systems biology, microbiology, biomedical engineering, computational biology, environmental science, web design, and systems thinking. This will take place in person in a lab setting, at environmental field sites around Seattle, and/or online based on COVID restrictions. The application window is open between mid-January and mid-March only.
InterIm CDA – Wilderness Inner-City Leadership Development
Ages 14 – 18
The WILD program works to build leadership in the context of environmental and social engagement, primarily in diverse, low-income communities.
King County – Youth Conservation Corps Internship (YCC)
Ages: rising 10th, 11th, or 12th grade students
Interns work for six summer weeks with King County Parks & Recreation Division staff at multiple Parks locations to better understand the breadth and depth of environmental justice, conservation, environmental stewardship, and parks and recreation management practices. The program will provide growth and learning opportunities, foster positive work relationships, and support youth in experiencing the work life environment. Applications are usually due in May. Program dates in 2022: July 5 – August 18. Pay as of summer 2022: $17.72 per hour.
King County Metro – Youth Transit Equity Internship
Ages: 15-18 years
This unique group learning and skill-building opportunity is for young people interested in public transit and community leadership. Throughout the program, the Transit Equity Interns become peer ambassadors of transportation resources, explore career pathways within Metro, and build skills and knowledge of transit, urban planning, climate justice, and local government. Pay as of summer 2023: $20 per hour.
Latino Community Fund – Alianza Youth Leadership Program
Latinx youth ages 16 – 25
Alianza Youth Leadership Program is a youth-led movement of collective youth voices connecting leaders to unlock their leadership potential and bring change to their communities. Through community organizing and training, Alianza aims to build leadership of Latinx youth by providing them with a platform and resources to do so. Alianza offers Fellowships, the Alianza Advocacy Council (AAC), and volunteer opportunities. Pay?: unknown.
Mid Columbia Fisheries Enhancement Group – Internships
Ages: college
College interns assist with a variety of projects, including stream surveys, project stewardship, monitoring, the Bull Trout Task Force and much more. Pay: unknown.
Mid Sound Fisheries Enhancement Group – Summer Youth Crew
Ages: 16-18 years
Join a crew of 8 youth who live near Auburn to gain work experience while improving salmon habitat in Auburn parks. No experience necessary! Pay as of summer 2023: $16.50 per hour.
Museum of History and Industry – MOHAI Youth Advisors
High school students ages 14 – 18
Youth Advisors get a behind-the-scenes look at the museum, offer feedback and input on MOHAI projects, and plan teen events and resources at the museum.
Na’ah Illahee Fund – Indigenous Youth Program
The Na’ah Illahee Fund seeks to support the development of strong, positive Indigenous identity through work centering youth in learning about traditional foods and medicines, historical and sacred places in the community they live, traditional language of the Seattle area, cultural arts, and leadership in the growing movement of Indigenous people fighting for the health of Mother Earth and Native communities. Current offerings include Youth Grantmaking Council and the Native Youth Rising Start Scholarship.
National Park Service – In My Backyard
Ages: Current or recently graduated high school students
This 5-week experience is tailored for high school-aged youth looking to better connect with themselves and our nation’s public lands and stories. Weekly themes include building a sense of place, “(Re)Defining Art,” and professional development. Program dates in summer 2022: July 11 – August 12, 1.5 hours per week. Applications are usually due in May. Pay as of summer 2022: stipend (amount unknown).
Northwest African American Museum – Youth Curator Program
Ages 14 – 18
High school students discover the art and science of museum curation and learn about African American culture through a program theme such as “Washington State’s Black Women in the Arts.”
Pacific Science Center – Discovery Corps
Ages: high school students
Discovery Corps is a paid youth development program that puts young people on the front line of Pacific Science Center’s mission to ignite curiosity in every child and fuels a passion for discovery, experimentation, and critical thinking in all of us. Discovery Corps is for high school youth who want to dive into exciting, interactive experiences and have the opportunity to bring a youth voice to PacSci while learning new professional and life skills. Pay as of 2023: $19.35/hour plus other benefits.
Partner in Employment – Youth Restoration Crew
Ages 16-24
Over the course of 10 weeks, crew members focus on environmental education and training in environmental topics while completing restoration projects in parks. This program happens every quarter. Interest form.
Port of Seattle – High School Internships
Ages 16+ and enrolled in high school or GED program within the past year
Youth gain job skills and training related to business management, facilities management, communications, engineering, and other aspects of Port of Seattle operations.
RVC – Community Impact Fellowship
For individuals from underrepresented groups who are committed to the Rainier Valley community and a career in social justice. This fellowship is intended for young adults with at least four years of work, academic, or volunteer experience in the non-profit sector. High school students would not qualify, but it’s an amazing opportunity to keep in mind for the future!
Sage Leaders – Community Leadership Institute
Ages: 18+
This is a 6-month, in-person fellowship. Participation learn the nuts and bolts of local government processes as well as advocacy, storytelling, and communication skills. After graduation, the fellows apply for and are placed on strategic boards, commissions, and task forces at the city and county level.
Seattle City Light – High School Internships
Ages 16+, currently enrolled in high school and will still be enrolled next year (i.e., no graduating seniors), minimum 2.00 GPA
Interns assist with projects, receive mentoring, participate in special trainings related to professional development, equity, and social justice, and may also go into the field.
Seattle City Light – College Internships (Summer and School Year)
Ages: college sophomores, juniors, seniors; or graduate students
Work alongside energy, government and business professionals, while learning new skills and developing deep industry knowledge. Summer internship opportunities are typically posted in January. School year internship opportunities are posted in early February, August, and November. Pay as of fall 2022: unknown.
Seattle Parks and Recreation – various job opportunities for teens
Ages 13 – 24
Several programs are still on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic, including: YES! Youth Engaged in Service, Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), Student Teen Employment Preparation (STEP), Summer of Service (SOS), and Youth Career Training Program.
Seattle Parks and Recreation – Youth Green Corps
Ages 18 – 24, with a high school diploma
Members work on Forest Restoration and Trail work in Seattle Parks for educational and career training related to site management, restoration skills and management, tool safety, native plant species, invasive plant identification, and environmental stewardship. Applications are usually due in June. Pay as of 2021: $15 per hour, approx. 30 hours per week.
Student Conservation Association (SCA) – Crews (several opportunities)
Ages 15+ depending on the program
The Student Conservation Association gathers young people from every town and every city, from every background and every academic focus to bring their diverse talents and perspectives to a nationwide effort to save the planet. Bolster your skills, clarify your passions, make lifelong connections to your team and the land through meaningful conservation work and purposeful adventure. Explore programs here.
Washington Trails Association (WTA) – Emerging Leaders Program
Adults; age range not specified.
The Emerging Leaders Program is a 14-week program designed for a diverse cohort of individuals — including Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) individuals and other shared identities — who want to form an inclusive community and build leadership skills to support future career interests in natural-resource stewardship and outdoor recreation. Skills learned include trail work, camping, risk management and proper tool use, leadership skills, Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification, career exploration, and more!
The Wilderness Society – Urban to Wild Partnership and Outreach Intern
Experienced undergraduate, recent college graduate, or current graduate student
The Wilderness Society is offering a paid internship this summer with the Urban to Wild program! The Wilderness Society is focused on making America’s system of public lands part of the solution to the most pressing conservation challenges of our day: climate change, unprecedented species extinction, and inequitable access to nature’s benefits. We work with diverse partners to find common ground around enduring, science-based conservation solutions, combining long-term investments in community-led conservation, deep public lands expertise, and commitment to advocacy efforts that share voice, power, and impact. The Urban to Wild Partnership and Outreach Intern will support The Wilderness Society’s work in Seattle to ensure the communities we serve benefit equitably from our public lands and have meaningful access to nature.
The Service Board – Core Program
Ages: unknown
Each year, the Service Board brings together a group of high school students and adult mentors from a diverse range of academic, racial, cultural and economic backgrounds to engage in our Core Program. Participants meet twice weekly from beginning of winter through spring. On Saturdays, we alternate between community service and snowboarding (they provide the gear, lessons and buses to the mountain). Applications are usually due in December.
SHADOW Lake Nature Preserve – Restoration and Education Internship
Eligibility varies with position
Interns gain experience with environmental restoration and education; learn about wetlands, forestry, and nonprofit management; receive networking opportunities with environmental professionals. No openings as of October 2022.
Sustainability Ambassadors – Various Internships
Eligibility varies with specific internship
Internship opportunities include Climate Justice Ambassador, Leadership Development, Ambassador Team Leader, Communications, Equity Diversity Inclusion, Sustainable City Planning, Cross-Training Partner, and Alumni Network. Pay?: unknown.
Teens in Public Service (TIPS) – Teens in Public Service Internship
Ages 15-19, enrolled in high school
Interns explore a career in public service and build connections within their community through hands-on work in a nonprofit. Interns gain training in teamwork, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. Pay as of 2023: $18.69 per hour.
Tilth Alliance – Rainier Beach Youth Stewards Program
Ages 14-18
Gain job experience through wetland restoration and farm education. Spring crew members work 6 hours/week for 8 weeks; summer crew members work 15 hours/week for 10 weeks. Applications are usually due in May. Pay as of 2022: $17.27 per hour.
Vashon Nature Center – Summer Internship Opportunities // Catálogo de Pasantías
Ages 16+ (11th and 12th grade preferred)
Hands-on experiences in research, conservation, ecological restoration, nature education and science communication. Applications are usually due in April. Pay as of 2022: stipend varies by internship.
The Washington Bus – Washington Bus Internship
Eligibility unspecified
Learn to advocate, education, organize, and engage young folks around important issues related to social justice. Interns across Washington State come together to advocate, educate, organize, and engage young folks around important issues. Each season has a different focus reflecting what is happening that time of the year. Pay as of 2021: $16.69 per hour, 10 hours/week for 15 weeks (January-April).
The Washington Bus – Summer Fellowship
Ages 18-25
Intensive, intentional and transformative experience for young folks who are ready to inspire change alongside their communities. Pay as of 2022: $18.50 per hour (or as an educational stipend), 20 hour/week.
Washington Environmental Council – Internships
Eligibility varies with specific internship
WEC works to protect Washington’s natural environment through lobbying, outreach, and community organizing. Internships are posted at the link above when available and are generally geared toward high school graduates.
Washington State Department of Natural Resources – recreation internships, various locations
Full time undergraduate student, or graduate student
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Recreation and Conservation Division. Are you interested in a Community or Land Use Planning, Recreation, or Natural Resource Management field and want real-world experience? If so, you may be perfect for the DNR Recreation internship program.
Waste Management – WM Recycle Corps Internship
Ages: individuals with a high school diploma or GED who are pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in a related field of study
Nine-week internship focused on the latest strategies in engaging residents and businesses in waste reduction and recycling behavior change. Interns will primarily conduct in-person site visits, attend community festivals with a WM booth, and complete some remote phone-based outreach to help businesses and apartment complexes with their recycling program. Applications are due April 21, 2023. Pay as of 2023: $20.29 per hour.
World Relief Western Washington – various internship opportunities
Ages 16-23
Interns are prepared for cross-cultural service by being immersed in the field of refugee and asylee resettlement. Internship opportunities include Refugee Resettlement, ESL, Health and Wellness Program, Youth and Family Summer, Detention Center Post-Release, and Legal.
Young Women Empowered – Y-WE Grow
Ages 14+; centering those who identify as BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ and have participated in Y-WE Grow previously, all are welcome to apply
Grow fresh culturally-relevant produce sustainably at Marra Farm (South Seattle) to share with community, while participating in local Food Justice movements and learning from Black, Indigenous, and other leaders of color across the region. Interns gain “green job” and professional skills while deepening their connection and responsibility to our environment and cultivating belonging, joy, healing, and embodiment in our community. Applications due May 8, 2023. Pay as of 2023: stipend up to $1,215.
Still looking for an internship? Check out Center School’s list of internships and programs for teens, not all of which are paid.