Environmental Intern

The Copperwood Team is seeking Summer 2026 Environmental Interns with coursework and experience from a wide variety of science and engineering fields to join us at the Copperwood Project site in Wakefield Township, MI in Gogebic County. The successful candidates will be members of our local team and report to the Environmental Scientist, Site Manager, or other designated senior employees. The candidates should expect a wide range of experiences in biological surveys, hydrology, vegetation management, construction, monitoring, and maintenance of newly created wetlands and streams in a remote forested area.  

Job Duties 
• Field Activities: Provide general construction site support as needed and conduct scheduled field surveys, occasionally in adverse weather conditions. Field surveys will focus on vegetation; wildlife (small and large mammals, bats, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates); hydrology; and water quality. Construction and vegetation maintenance work may include using saws, shovels, hand tools, power tools, and operating equipment including side by side ATVs.  
• Safety Compliance: Participate in safety meetings and inspections of site contractors and visitors to ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies. Help identify potential hazards and suggest corrective actions. 
• Data Management and Analysis: Collect data in the field, manage and manipulate digital photographs and audio files, input data into analysis software or spreadsheets. Assist in analyzing data to summarize results, identify trends, or identify environmental patterns. 
• Learning and Development: Take advantage of learning opportunities to gain exposure to various aspects of construction project monitoring and management, such as permitting, scheduling, and contract administration. Ask questions, seek feedback, and actively participate in team meetings and discussions. 

Desired Experience, Skills & Certifications 
• Pursuit of a technical, bachelor’s, or graduate degree in biology, environmental science, conservation, engineering, or other physical or natural science.    
• Experience in natural science field work, environmental monitoring, surveying, or construction, and navigating through remote areas with GPS and maps.    
• Ability to identify a wide variety of animals and plants. Wildlife handling experience a plus. Experience with plant keys a plus.  
• Experience managing and manipulating large data files including digital photographs, video, and audio data.  
• Detail orientated, self-starter and finisher, team player, and willing to learn how to perform a wide variety of tasks.   
• Ability to carry a 50lb pack, use hand tools and power tools, and hike long distances up to 1 mile in rough terrain and inclement weather conditions. 

• Strong organizational skills, ability to manage multiple simultaneous tasks, and willingness to be challenged.   
• Technical writing experience, with the capacity to prepare clear and concise reports. Familiarity with Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project, and Outlook. Experience writing computer code (R, Python, SQL, HTML, JavaScript, or other) a plus.  
• Valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation. 
• Authorized to work in the United States. Local applicants (Western UP of Michigan) are encouraged to apply. 

Other details and benefits

Company-provided housing will be available for those not from the local area. Work locations will be at the Copperwood Project site 15 miles north of Wakefield, and at the Copperwood Resources Inc. office in Wakefield, MI. Hourly compensation is $22.00/hour with potential for overtime.