Air Quality Engineering, Permitting and Review Intern (College)

Internships with the Department of Environmental Protection offer a unique and enriching experience for students eager to engage in the vital work of safeguarding Pennsylvania's natural resources. These positions allow interns to immerse themselves in various program areas within the agency, contributing to efforts aimed at preserving the state's air, land, and water from pollution. By participating in these initiatives, interns not only support the agency's mission to ensure a healthier environment for all citizens but also gain practical skills and insights that can significantly enhance their future career prospects. If you are passionate about public service and are looking to acquire meaningful work experience that aligns with your academic goals, we encourage you to apply today and take the first step toward making a positive impact in your community.

In this internship position, you will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance to the Air Quality engineering division of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), specifically focusing on the permitting processes for both new and existing facilities. Your responsibilities will include actively contributing to efforts aimed at reducing and preventing the Permit Backlog within the Southwest Regional Office (SWRO), ensuring compliance with the established PayBack policy. This role will require you to engage with various stakeholders, analyze permitting requirements, and support initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, ultimately fostering a more streamlined approach to air quality management and regulatory compliance.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time internship that may last within the timeframe of 5/1/2025 through 8/28/2026.
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with 30-minute lunch
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, on a schedule that aligns with the supervisor. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Pittsburgh. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Additional Requirements:

• Current full-time enrollment in a bachelor's degree or advanced degree program in one of the following acceptable majors:
  • Air Quality Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
• An approved major course of study at an accredited college or university.
• Freshman year completed by May 2026
• Good academic standing (2.0 GPA or higher).
• Pennsylvania residency or enrollment as a full-time student at a Pennsylvania college or university.
• This position requires possession of an active non-commercial Pennsylvania Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Additional Requirements:

• You must possess a valid driver's license which is not under suspension.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.