School of Environmental Studies

Volunteer Opportunities

 

Internships

Conservation

Tennessee State Parks and Conservation Seasonal Interpreter Recreator (SIR)

Description: We have amazing opportunities each summer for college students seeking degrees in general life sciences, forestry, wildlife, history, environmental science and other related degrees to work in our state parks handling a variety of responsibilities to support the needs of the park and their guests.

Leadership, Communication, and Policy

 

Environmental Technology

 

Environmental Biology, Chemistry, and Science

Teacher Naturalist Intern

Description: We are seeking passionate people who want to learn how to use nature to make a difference in children’s lives. Teacher Naturalist interns help create an atmosphere of welcome, warmth, and belonging. They will meet and work with a wide variety of program participants, facilitating experiences for young children, school-aged summer campers, and adults. Location is in Townsend, Tennessee and currently hiring for Summer 2026. 

Compensation: Starting salary $350/week, plus meals and lodging. 

 

2026 UCOR Summer Internship Program: Environmental Scientist/Engineer Intern

Description: This is a 12-week program held from late May to early August. You must be able to be onsite for the entire intership program. Applicant must be persuing a degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering or other applicable degree programs.  Duties will inclue NPDES stormwater permit renewl support for East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP), including sample planning and tracking, analytical results review, stormwater pollution prevention site inspections, and more. This internship requires both office work and field work. Location is in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Posting will close in March.

 

 

ESS Current Job Openings

Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, and GIS

TDEC Environmental Scientists, Foresters, and Consultants - View open TDEC positions here!

Description: The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation frequently hires for various environmental positions at their West, Middle, and East Tennessee offices. Visit the TN.gov website and search for positions at TDEC. 

Salary Range: $48,204 – $72,468 annually. 

 

Bradford Woods Summer Camp Employment Position - Nature Program Instructor

Description: The Nature Program Instructor is responsible for designing and implementing nature-based programming that meets the needs, interests, and abilities of each camp session’s population. A key part of this role is creating written activity plans and working closely with cabin staff to adapt activities so that every camper can fully participate and enjoy the experience. This position lives in the cabins for the duration of the summer and assists with camper personal care, activities of daily living, and medical procedures. When not planning, setting up, or leading activities, the Nature Program Instructor will engage with campers in their assigned cabin group to ensure a positive and supportive experience. Location is in Martinsville, Indiana and employment will be from May 11th to July 31st, 2026.