The Magic “I” Word: Internships

  • According to employers, one of the most valuable types of experiences you can have.
  • Organizations hire many full-time employees from summer or academic year interns.
  • Kansas Micro-internship Program

The National Association of Colleges and Employers defines an internship this way:

An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.   

To ensure that an experience—whether it is a traditional internship or one conducted remotely or virtually—is educational, and thus eligible to be considered a legitimate internship by the NACE definition, all the following criteria must be met: 

  • The experience must be an extension of the classroom: a learning experience that provides for applying the knowledge gained in the classroom. It must not be simply to advance the operations of the employer or be the work that a regular employee would routinely perform.
  • The skills or knowledge learned must be transferable to other employment settings.
  • The experience has a defined beginning and end, and a job description with desired qualifications.
  • There are clearly defined learning objectives/goals related to the professional goals of the student’s academic coursework. 
  • There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience.
  • There is routine feedback by the experienced supervisor.  
  • There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the host employer that support learning objectives/goals. 
If these criteria are followed, it is the opinion of NACE that the experience can be considered a legitimate internship

Benefits/Advantages of Internships

While many students wait until their junior or senior year to complete an internship, completing an internship while you are still undecided allows you to explore career paths before you commit to a major. Juniors and seniors can use an internship to experience the variety of specialties within their chosen field and determine the best fit for individual skills, abilities, and interests.
Employers frequently cite the work experience gained by internships as important in their hiring decisions for college graduates. An internship is a great way to gain experience in your career field and can help to put you ahead of other candidates in the job search.
The process for finding an internship is, in many cases, identical to finding full-time employment. Finding job openings, contacting employers, developing your resume and cover letter, interviewing, and evaluating offers are all skills that you will practice during your internship search.
An internship will put you in contact with professionals in your field of interest - a perfect networking opportunity.
Employers frequently mention new graduates’ lack of “professionalism” in the workplace. The best way to learn how to fit into the professional workplace is through practice. An internship is your orientation to the world of work!
Employers like to hire interns into full-time positions after graduation. During an internship, employers are able to observe your daily behavior, work ethic, and ability to fit in with their organization. Think of an internship as an extended interview.

Types of Internships

Internships can be either paid or unpaid depending on the career field and employer resources.  Internships in business fields (accounting, marketing, finance) are more likely to be paid than those in social science careers (social work, education, history).  Consider whether or not your personal financial situation will allow you to accept an unpaid internship. An unpaid position can be a great experience and has the same networking opportunities and professional benefits of a paid internship. When considering an unpaid position, it is important to weigh the long-term benefit of your experience against the short-term financial gain.
If you will receive college credit for your internship you need to contact your academic department to arrange this.  Internships that are for college credit will require you to enroll in an internship course and have a faculty advisor. Each department handles internship credit differently so be sure to check with your advisor before accepting or beginning an internship.  Internships for which you do not receive college credit are still valuable experiences.
The length of internships varies; however, students commonly complete internships over the summer or during a semester while taking classes. Summer internships are more frequently full-time, while internships completed during the semester tend to be fewer hours per week to allow students to continue to take classes. In the early stages of your internship search, consider which option fits into your schedule. Location of an internship also is a factor; summer internships can be found nationwide, or even internationally, while semester internships may have to be local.
During your internship search you may run across the term co-op. A co-op, or cooperative education, experience is typically a semester of full-time employment. Students in a traditional co-op setting do not take college courses during the co-op. Employers may use the term internship and co-op interchangeably, so be sure to ask about the employment time frame and expectations.

Each employer has unique internship parameters, so be sure to ask lots of questions during the selection process to ensure that the experience is what you are seeking. Your accomplishments and tasks completed during your internship are more important than simply having the word “Intern” on your resume.

At the start of your internship, meet with your supervisor to discuss your interest areas and internship goals. While you may not be able to tailor your entire experience, showing initiative and ownership of your experience will demonstrate professionalism and dedication to the position.  Make your specific areas of interest and experience known to your internship supervisor.

Treat your internship as a job interview. Since many employers hire full-time employees from recent interns, your performance during the internship can determine whether or not you are offered a position.  During your internship, act as you would if you were a full-time employee.  Following the dress code, arriving on time, staying on task, and completing work within deadlines will impress your supervisor.  Even if your company does not have a position open, a positive reference from your internship will be very helpful during your job search.

 

Available internships from Handshake

This list is updated directly from the Handshake website. View all openings (handshake website)
Link: Chemical Engineering Intern at ACCI Specialty Materials
Date: Thu, 15 May 2025 2:05 PM
Employer: ACCI Specialty Materials Expires: 11/15/2025 ACCI Specialty Materials is a leading chemical manufacturing company based in Linden, NJ with a manufacturing plant in Harrisonville, MO. We are currently seeking a Summer Intern to help develop PSSR's (Prestartup Safety Reviews), PHA's (Process Hazard Analysis)  for new products and help in  updating the Health & Safety program.Responsibilities:Assist in the development of a PSSR's manufacturing equipmentHelp update the Health & Safety program by reviewing policies and procedures and recommending improvementsAssist in safety audits and inspections to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for corrective actionsAssist with the implementation of new safety initiativesWork closely with the with experienced Chemical Engineers and HSE to ensure compliance with safety regulationsParticipate in safety training sessions and provide input on new training programsRequirements:Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program in a related field (e.g. Engineering, Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science)Strong attention to detail and organizational skillsExcellent communication skills, both written and verbalAbility to work independently and as part of a teamProficient in Microsoft OfficePrevious experience in a manufacturing environment a plusThis is a great opportunity for a motivated student who is interested in gaining hands-on experience in developing in plant and batch process engineering. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals and make a real impact on our operations.To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this position and how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate.  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. This position is based in the Kansas City metro area. We are conducting in-person interviews only at our facility: 1701 W Vine St Harrisonville, MO 64701.  If you are interested, please arrive between 9AM and 3PM Monday through Friday with your resume and complete an application.  Resumes submitted through this platform will be discarded without review.
Link: Accounting Internships - Audit & Tax (Spring & Summer 2026) at Adams Brown
Date: Tue, 12 Aug 2025 1:56 PM
Employer: Adams Brown Expires: 11/21/2025 As a valued member of our team you will immediately be exposed to all aspects of tax compliance and audit + assurance working with all levels of our team across the 14 different offices in Kansas and Arkansas. Adams Brown is a Top 125 largest firm in the US with clients across the state & country in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, professional services as well as restaurants and oil & gas.Our team is technology focused to be efficient while managing client relationships to assist them reach their short & long-term goals. We have created a positive, dynamic, people-oriented environment that is genuinely committed to serving clients and working as a close team.Adams Brown utilizes both firm wide and office focused communication to help share knowledge throughout the firm. We have centralized training processes to help you learn the technical and time and work management skills to be successful which you will continue to build on as your career progresses. In addition, you will have a dedicated Intern Site Coordinator who will be your go-to person for questions throughout the internship.You will be given the opportunity to work with co-workers who specialize in payroll, financial reporting, and wealth management services as well as business consulting as we are a part of the Adams Brown ONE team, ONE goal, ONE firm concept. You will also have the opportunity to be apart of a specific Industry such as: Agriculture, Closely Held Business, Construction & Real Estate, Health Care, High Net Worth, Governmental, & Manufacturing. Questions? Visit https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/careers/ or contact Talent Acquisition Specialist Jordan Gaylord at jgaylord@adamsbrowncpa.com.An unofficial transcript is required at the time of application. AdamsBrown, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Link: Compliance Summer Intern at Advisors Excel
Date: Wed, 10 Sep 2025 2:55 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 01/16/2026 Position: Compliance Summer InternDepartment: ComplianceReporting to: Compliance ManagerLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:Are you ready to make a splash this upcoming summer? Join us as a Compliance Intern and take part in an engaging project aimed at enhancing our compliance program! You’ll not only support our organization’s compliance needs but also have the chance to showcase your work to our compliance leadership team at the end of the summer.What you’ll do: Manage an exciting summer project to enhance reporting capabilities for our surveillance and supervision teamsParticipate in engaging industry training sessions to boost your knowledge and skillsTake on a variety of tasks as needed, contributing to a dynamic and collaborative work environmentExperience you’ll bring:Self-starterAbility to take ownership of projectsExceptional problem determination skills with a high attention to detailConfident, professional and articulate written and verbal communication skillsBonus Points:Completed coursework in corporate compliance, business transactions, or other related topicsPrevious experience in business law, particularly securities, insurance, or compliance lawWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café & gymContinuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performanceEmployee sponsored events…and more!Who We Are:Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Link: Creative Operations Intern at Advisors Excel
Date: Fri, 3 Oct 2025 3:59 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 11/03/2025 Position: Creative Operations Intern Department: Corporate Marketing Reporting to: VP of Corporate Marketing Location: Topeka, KS - Onsite Overview: Do you consider yourself a detailed person? Do you enjoy identifying problems and contributing to solutions? We are searching for an intern to join our Corporate Marketing team.  The Creative Operations Intern functions as an operations generalist, whose responsibilities span digital asset management, workflow optimization, resource administration, and marketing program support, driving organizational effectiveness and continuous improvement across Corporate Marketing. What you’ll do: Support the maintenance of business and marketing resources in the Daily Business Resources (DBR) site by reviewing account accuracy, cleaning up data, creating content, and assisting with help desk email inquiries.Support project management processes in Workfront by entering and updating data, checking reports, auditing templates and projects, and keeping documents organized.Help manage the Digital Asset Management (DAM) system by organizing, naming, and tagging assets, uploading new materials with metadata, and assisting with portal updates.Work collaboratively across teams, adapt to changing technology, and assist with documentation updates, and testing as part of ongoing improvements. Experience you’ll bring:Detail oriented, focused on quality in all aspects of your workStrong organizational and time management skillsResourceful in solving problems and maximizing resourcesAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously with frequent interruptions Ability to collaborate effectively with a teamAn aptitude for technology, embrace change, and have a desire to learn Bonus Points: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel Previous office experiencePursuing a degree in Data Analytics, Business or related field What you’ll get: Access to an on-site café & gym Continuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performance Employee sponsored events…and more!  Who We Are: Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team! Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily. 
Link: Summer Engineering Internship at Ag Processing Inc (AGP)
Date: Thu, 28 Aug 2025 3:31 PM
Employer: Ag Processing Inc (AGP) Expires: 02/28/2026 Are you an engineering major looking for a hands-on, real-world internship?Ag Processing Inc (AGP) is offering paid Summer Engineering Internships at our soy processing, oil refinery, and methyl ester facilities across Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and Minnesota.This isn’t a “sit at a desk all day” internship — you’ll take ownership of a real project that helps improve safety, efficiency, or cost savings in one of our plants. Plus, housing assistance is available if you’re relocating for the summer.What You’ll DoLead a real project that enhances plant safety, efficiency, or cost performanceLearn to create and edit drawings using AutoCAD and NavisworksWork with contractors, consulting firms, and vendors to keep projects on trackCollaborate with management to brainstorm and implement operational and safety improvementsSupport and oversee project constructionPartner with plant operations staff to see your project come to lifeWhat We’re Looking ForCompletion of sophomore or junior year coursework in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial Technology, Bio Systems, or Ag Engineering (or a similar technical field)Available to work about 10 weeks during May, June, July, and AugustExcited to work in a production plant environmentStrong technical, analytical, and communication skillsA team player with a professional and positive attitudeTake the first step toward your engineering career this summer and gain the kind of experience that makes your resume stand out. Apply today to join a company that values innovation, safety, and growth!Ag Processing Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-verify.
Link: Tax & Audit Internship - 2025 & 2026 at Allen, Gibbs & Houlik, L.C.
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:17 AM
Employer: Allen, Gibbs & Houlik, L.C. Expires: 08/08/2026 Tax & Audit Internship ABOUT AGH:As one of the top 200 CPA and advisory firms in the U.S., AGH has been serving closely held and privately-owned entrepreneurial firms and public sector organizations for more than 80 years. AGH is based in the central U.S., but the firm's reach and specialized expertise available to clients spans the globe. AGH’s more than 130 professionals serve as trusted advisors and provide clients with a broad portfolio of tax, assurance and advisory services. POSITION SUMMARY:Spring or summer interns working in either assurance or tax departments at Wichita's largest CPA and advisory firm: Assurance interns will work on a variety of audits in the manufacturing, financial services, construction, distribution and government/non-profit industries. Tax interns will work on individual, corporate and other tax returns in a variety of industries. Interns will have the opportunity to work with a team of professionals with real life work experience while being mentored on technical and career decisions.At AGH, you will enjoy career opportunities in a thriving community perfect for work and life. The firm's dynamic approach to business ensures a diversified workplace where younger professionals work hand-in-hand with seasoned consultants and accountants. WHY WORK FOR US:At AGH, you will find an environment where good work is rewarded, and growth is valued. AGH offers competitive wages to qualified individuals and the opportunity to grow professionally and personally through diverse work experience and formal training. Our top five people initiatives are:• A challenging variety of work in a continuous learning environment• Career/life integration• Flexible work environment with great opportunity for advancement• Ability to make a difference with clients
Link: Summer 2026 Actuarial Internship at Americo Services, Inc.
Date: Mon, 25 Aug 2025 4:02 PM
Employer: Americo Services, Inc. Expires: 12/31/2025 2026 Summer Internship Program Americo: We’re in this for life!With over 100 years of experience, $8 billion in assets, close to 698,000 policies under administration, and over $31.4 billion of life insurance in force, Americo Financial Life and Annuity Insurance Company is the lead company in one of the largest, independent, privately-held insurance companies in the United States.Personalized, trusted service is the cornerstone of our business. At Americo, it's the people who make things work. We are progressive in our thinking. We are solutions-oriented. We are accessible. We employ honest, ethical business practices. We are real people, passionate about our business. We deliver innovative product solutions that can be tailored to your situation. Our products are priced with integrity to provide long-term value to you. We provide product education, sales tools, technology, and personalized, trusted service to help our distribution partners grow.Job Summary:Launch your career with Americo Life Insurance in our 2026 Summer Internship Program! This position is tasked with providing actuarial support and gaining a working knowledge of actuarial and company systems. You’ll have the opportunity to work on projects, build your skills, and network with professionals and other interns. In addition, you’ll gain real-life experience and explore what it’s like to work as part of an organization that exemplifies people, performance, and possibilities.The program begins in May 2026 and ends in August 2026 (this varies depending on each position). Over the 10 to 12 week program, you will participate in business projects, mentoring, leadership development, and team-building activities designed to set you up for professional success. Most importantly, you will learn what it is like to work at Americo Life Insurance!Key Responsibilities:Collect & clean data necessary to support the actuarial departmentProvide calculations to support development of modelsProvide general actuarial support to supervisor and other functional areasWhat We Offer:We are looking for students who are ready to take on stimulating projects and gain exposure to various industry initiatives. Americo Life Insurance offers the following:10 to 12 weeks of work experience (May – August)A competitive salaryExposure to the Executive Leadership TeamIndependent and team project experiencesCareer developmentNetworking and community engagement opportunitiesAn opportunity for conversionQualifications:We know skills and competencies show up differently based on your life experience. Therefore, if you do not necessarily meet all the listed requirements, we still encourage you to apply for the position.This job might be for you if:You have demonstrated interest and commitment to the actuarial professionYou have a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and professionalismYou have strong communication skills and are passionate about working with othersYou have experience working in Microsoft ExcelYou have analytical, problem-solving and conceptual thinking skillsRequirements:Must be currently pursuing a degree and remain fully enrolled in the program during the duration of the internshipYou have passed or have plans to sit for SOA examsMust be able to begin an internship in May 2026Sophomore through Senior standing in a four-year institution pursuing a Bachelor’s degreeAble to work full-time, 40 hours per week
Link: 2026 Marketing and Advertising Education Summer Internship Program at ANA Educational Foundation
Date: Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:30 AM
Employer: ANA Educational Foundation Expires: 01/23/2026 MADE is an internship program for undergraduate students interested in the marketing and advertising industry. Founded by the ANA Educational Foundation, MADE connects students with internships at marketing, advertising, media companies including Ad Council, GroupM L'Oréal, IBM, Paramount Pictures, NBCUniversal, Sephora, and Publicis. This paid program is designed to provide the skills, mentors, training and network to help you break into and thrive in the industry.Core AttributesRelentless Explorers & Learners – We are looking for students who are relentless in their pursuit to acquire knowledge and learn more about a wide variety of topics. You might love Shakespeare as much as you love an Instagram post that went viral.Creative Storytellers – We want people who can write and speak in a way that captures the imagination of those around you. While the story itself might be fantastic, knowing how to communicate it is just as important.Data Wonks – If you dream in decimals and thoroughly enjoy long division, you may possess one of the most coveted skills in marketing: data intelligence. Don’t fret if you’re not a math whiz, though. We simply want you to be comfortable using numbers to guide your decision making.Critical Thinking Problem Solvers – Every day, there is a new business problem and there's no textbook with solutions to these problems. We need critical thinkers who can find ways to address problems that the industry has never faced.Action-Orientated Collaborators– We want those who lean toward action and can follow an instinct, but who also bring people along toward that vision. Working together is just as important as knowing how to lead.An Entrepreneurial Mindset – Do you have new ideas? We want that entrepreneurial spirit in the industry. Because of digital disruption, there are no set rules anymore.Cultural Anthropologists – You love culture whether that be film, art, music, or just people. You observe culture as much as you want to create culture. Who Can ApplyThe 2026 MADE Program will be open to undergraduate juniors and seniors only (graduating between May 2026 and May 2027). Current graduate students are eligible to apply for select internships.The Application ProcessApplicants will do the following:Step 1: Submit the Basics – Complete the application form and submit a resume that includes your school, GPA, and other basic information.Step 2: Academic Recommendation – You’ll be asked to submit a professor recommendation after completing step 1. This is so we get a sense of your intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and teamwork skills.Step 3: Recorded Digital Interview – You'll be asked to respond to several interview questions. Answers will be recorded as part of your application. We use this interview to assess your problem solving skills and your interest in the industry.Step 4: Final Interview – If you've been selected as a program finalist, a member of our team will interview you live via our video interview platform.Placement RatesThis is a highly competitive internship. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so the earlier you apply, the better your chances at being placed. It's a long process and final placements can happen anywhere between September- April. MADE interns typically start their summer internship in June.Students interested in interning with marketers (i.e., Mastercard, Sephora, Hershey, L'Oréal) must apply and complete their applications by Friday, October 17th at 11:59pm ET. Students interested in interning at an ad agency or media platform must apply and complete their application by Friday, January 23rd at 11:59pm ET.  A complete application is your initial submission form with your resume, an academic recommendation, and the digital interview. Frequently Asked QuestionsPlease visit our frequently asked questions page for more info! Our team is hosting three informational sessions to answer any questions and share tips to stand out. Each date is listed below (Attached with RSVP link):Session 1: September 5th at 1pm ET  Session 2: September 16th at 1pm ET  Session 3: October 2nd at 4pm ET We look forward to receiving your applications! 
Link: Environmental Science / Geology Interns Needed (Summer 2026)- NATIONWIDE at Arcadis
Date: Sun, 7 Sep 2025 10:32 PM
Employer: Arcadis Expires: 03/07/2026 PLEASE JOIN OUR TALENT COMMUNITY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ARCADIS AND HEAR ABOUT NEW OPPORTUNITIES AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE. https://jobs.arcadis.com/careers/join?domain=arcadis.comArcadis is seeking detail-oriented, well-organized, dependable Geology or Environmental Science majors to join our class firm nationwide in the summer of 2025. This internship position requires strict adherence to health and safety procedures, attention to detail, strong work ethic, and excellent communication skills.Responsibilities may include a combination of field and office related tasks.Field activities may include the following:Oversight of drilling operations (installing monitoring wells and soil or rock descriptions)Soil, groundwater, and air sampling in compliance with State and Federal standardsEmergency responseOperation and maintenance of subsurface remediation systemsSubcontractor oversightAquifer pump testingUnderground and above ground storage tank inspection, testing, and repair/alteration oversightOffice responsibilities may include the following:Data management (compilation, manipulation, and evaluation of data)Assisting with writing and preparing technical reports, work plans, letters, and memorandaPreparing cost estimates and proposalsCoordinating work schedules with subcontractorsConducting project related research (historical data, regulations, etc.)Preparing periodic status/program reportsFigure/map/boring log productionCandidates must have a good driving record, be willing to work outside in all weather conditions and for extended periods. Field work may be performed at project sites with environmental media (e.g., soil, sediment, groundwater, surface water, etc.) that has been impacted with hazardous substances and/or hazardous wastes. Candidates must also be able to meet the physical demands associated with performing field work, including lifting heavy equipment, working in a standing position for extended periods of time, etc.Interns must be proficient with MS Word and MS Excel. The ideal candidate will have excellent written and strong interpersonal communication skills, multi-tasking skills, efficient time management, and the flexibility required to support different project managers concurrently.Qualifications Required Qualifications:Pursuing a BS or MS degree in Geology, Environmental Science or closely related fieldPreferred Qualifications:Prior internship or full-time experience in a related field.PLEASE JOIN OUR TALENT COMMUNITY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ARCADIS AND HEAR ABOUT NEW OPPORTUNITIES AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE. https://jobs.arcadis.com/careers/join?domain=arcadis.com
Link: NEON Field Ecology Intern - KS at Battelle
Date: Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:31 PM
Employer: Battelle Expires: 05/02/2026 NEON Field Ecology Intern - KS Location: Manhattan, KSEcologyJob Id75696Job Type Full-Time On Site Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.  We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.  The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental-scale observation facility funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle. The NEON program is designed to collect long-term, open access ecological data to better understand how U.S. ecosystems are changing, from freshwater systems such as streams, rivers, and lakes to terrestrial systems spanning tropical forests to deserts to tundra (neonscience.org). We depend on our people to collect observational data and samples, to monitor automated instrumented systems that collect terrestrial and aquatic data, and to operate our airborne observation platform that captures remote sensing data of regional landscapes and vegetation. Job SummaryWe are currently seeking a Field Ecology Intern. This position is an onsite role located in Manhattan, KS. This position will start between May 2026 and end between August 2026. In the middle of North America, the eastern forests give way to the tallgrass prairie. This is the Prairie Peninsula (Domain 06), in the heartland of the U.S. Sometimes called "America's Breadbasket," this region provides ample opportunity to study the impact of agriculture and land management practices on tallgrass prairie ecosystems. It also provides a unique view of a transitional zone between the prairies and the eastern deciduous forest. NEON sites in the Prairie Peninsula Domain are managed from our Manhattan, KS office. Field Ecology Interns perform seasonal and periodic sampling of physical, chemical, and biological data at one (1) to multiple field sites (depending on location), while exercising good judgement and decision-making abilities to interpret protocol requirements. This position may be assigned an area of primary responsibility within the scope of data collection: botany, soils, entomology, mammalogy (except Puerto Rico and Hawaii), limnology (except Hawaii), or instrumentation; the position may also be assigned multiple areas of responsibility as a “generalist”. Field observations and collections are conducted using approximately 30 different protocols and may include NEON Research Support Services projects with varying schedule requirements based on local ecosystem and field conditions Individuals are responsible for their own housing and transportation to primary work location.  Physical Demands and Work Environment The work involves walking, hiking, prolonged standing, bending, and kneeling. Heavy items, equipment and packs up to 40 pounds, must be lifted and carried on a routine basis. Field work includes exposure to extreme temperatures, inclement weather, rough and variable terrain, toxic plants (e.g., poison ivy, poison oak), stinging and biting insects (especially ticks), working in active agricultural fields, and wildlife and livestock hazards. Instrument maintenance involves performing work on instrument towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 130 feet, which includes ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs. Driving off-road in 4WD vehicles is required for most field sites. Work Schedule and Travel  We have a dynamic work environment where schedules are variable at the manager’s discretion. Generally, employees work 40 hours per week, with workdays ranging from 8-10 hours per day. Occasionally, workdays may extend to 12+ hours per day, including split shifts, starting before dawn and/or ending after dusk, and weekends. The ratio of field to lab work is about 75% field and 25% office and lab duties. It is important to note that working over 40 hours a week may be required as needed, and overtime will be paid accordingly. Additionally, occasional travel (e.g., 1-2 times per year) may be required to other Domain locations.ResponsibilitiesPerform field and lab assignments in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse assigned biomes, etc.).Provide training to, and performance feedback on seasonal personnel.Follow established, standardized field procedures for sample collection; record data from sample collection in handheld tablets, computers, etc.; equipment preparation and maintenance, process and ship samples.Perform Q/C checks on collected data.Navigate to field sites and sampling locations.Report activities and completed work according to protocol.Follow safety policy and procedures.Report issues with implementation of procedures and coordinate resolution.Assist with routine administrative duties, special projects including Research Support Services collaborating with external Principal Investigators and other duties as assigned.Key QualificationsCurrently pursuing an undergraduate or advanced graduate degree in ecology, forestry, environmental or related scientific field.Ability to learn and perform procedures and methods outside of the primary responsibilities. Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Effective problem-solving skills and the ability to organize and execute multiple activities and priorities.Ability to proactively identify and resolve resource conflicts. High level of attention to detail and accuracy Ability to work independently and as part of a team.  Demonstrated optimism in adverse conditions and good judgement in identifying, mitigating, and avoiding hazards. Ability to identify good practices and areas for improvement in team performance. Valid U.S. Driver’s License with acceptable driving record pertinent to the position.  Ability to successfully pass background checks and pre-employment drug testing.Must be a U.S. Citizen.SalaryPay rate: $15.00-$17.00 This information reflects the anticipated base salary range for this position based on current national data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience, and other relevant factors.Preparing You for Career Success The Battelle intern and co-op program is a great way to increase experience both on a team and as an independent contributor. Ninety-eight percent of internship survey respondents said they felt better prepared to enter the workforce after their Battelle internship and 100% said they were treated with respect by their colleagues.   You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects Pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environmentBecome the next generation of scientific leaders and business professionals Are you ready to help solve the most important challenges of today and tomorrow?   If so, we are ready to support you with:Flexible work schedules: Most teams follow a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday offEnjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs.Employee Resource Groups that help cultivate an inclusive and welcoming communitySocial and professional networking events with Battelle Senior Leadership and your colleaguesOpportunities for philanthropic involvement to give back and make an impact in the community Vaccinations & Safety ProtocolsBattelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).Battelle is an equal opportunity employer.  We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department. For more information about our other openings, please visit www.battelle.org/careers
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