Seasonal Research Internship

Seasonal Research Internship 

Ft. Collins, CO

Ducks Unlimited (DU) seeks one (1) highly motivated research intern to join the biological and engineering team in our Ft. Collins, CO office to study water resilience and community capacity building/planning methods in the Great Plains. This 3-month internship from May 18, 2026 to August 7, 2026 is jointly managed by DU and the University of Georgia Institute for Resilient Infrastructure Systems. The successful candidate will join a talented team of biologist and engineers and will be expected to participate in field work, design, and establish an independent study related to identifying alignments and gaps between wildlife and resilience plans in the plains states in an effort to coordinate diverse stakeholders. The successful candidate will be expected to establish independent connections with local research groups, engage with local partners, and perform independent literature reviews in addition to helping with fieldwork and design.

A strong interest in wetland conservation, engineering with natural process and a history of independent work is required. The ideal candidate will have extensive field experience and familiarity with the nature-based solutions, natural infrastructure, ecology, governance/policies, and community risk indices associated with prairie wetlands. The ideal candidate will also have extensive survey and design experience. This position will work in a variety of landscapes including but not limited to wetlands, forests, and streams. 

Requirements:

• B.S. degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, Architecture, Geography, Atmospheric Sciences, Marine Sciences or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience in applied projects related to infrastructure and sustainability.
• A strong interest in integrating engineering with ecology, forestry, landscape architecture /design, policy, and other natural infrastructure-related disciplines.
• Strong Geospatial skillset and experience with ArcPro or other geospatial programs
• Interest in stream and wetland restoration with diverse stakeholders to achieve multiple outcomes 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently

Pay & Travel: Position will pay an hourly rate of $24.00 plus a housing stipend. Successful applicant will be expected to work at least five days each week spending 40-50% time on office and field work and the remaining time on independent research and documentation of wetland design. Any travel costs for field work will be reimbursed on a cost basis with receipts. Applicant must be able to start at the duty station on May 18, 2026, or soon thereafter.  

To Apply: Please complete the online application materials and attach a resume and short research proposal. Applications will be considered as they are received. Last date to apply is May 8, 2026.