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Internship Solid Waste Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Internship Solid Waste information

What is an internship in solid waste?

An Internship in Solid Waste is a temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in the field of solid waste management. Interns typically work alongside professionals on projects related to waste collection, recycling, landfill management, and environmental sustainability. The internship provides exposure to regulations, operational procedures, and community outreach efforts regarding proper waste disposal and resource recovery. This hands-on experience is valuable for those interested in environmental science, public health, or engineering careers.

What types of projects or responsibilities can an intern expect during a solid waste management internship?

As a solid waste management intern, you can expect to support projects such as waste audits, recycling initiatives, data collection, and community outreach programs. Interns often assist with analyzing waste streams, preparing reports, and evaluating the effectiveness of waste reduction strategies. You'll likely collaborate with engineers, environmental specialists, and public works staff, gaining exposure to both fieldwork and office-based tasks. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the operational and regulatory aspects of municipal solid waste management, which can be a strong foundation for future roles in environmental services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship in solid waste, and why are they important?

To excel in a Solid Waste Internship, you generally need coursework in environmental science, engineering, or a related field, along with basic knowledge of waste management principles. Familiarity with data collection tools, GIS mapping software, and Microsoft Office Suite is often required. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and teamwork skills help interns effectively contribute to projects and collaborate with staff. These abilities are vital for supporting waste reduction initiatives, ensuring regulatory compliance, and gaining practical experience in the environmental sector.

What is the difference between Internship Solid Waste vs Solid Waste Technician?

AspectInternship Solid WasteSolid Waste Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college educationHigh school diploma; some roles may require certifications
Work EnvironmentPart-time, educational setting, supervisedFull-time, fieldwork at waste management sites
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by waste management companies, municipalitiesPublic and private waste management companies, municipalities
Common Search & ComparisonLearning opportunity, entry-level experienceOperational role, hands-on waste collection and disposal

In summary, an Internship Solid Waste provides students or entry-level individuals with educational experience in waste management, often part-time and supervised. In contrast, a Solid Waste Technician is a full-time role requiring more hands-on work in waste collection, disposal, and site maintenance. Both roles are essential in the waste management industry but serve different career stages and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solid Waste jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Solid Waste jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Internship Solid Waste jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Internship Solid Waste job openings:

Entry-level Civil or Environmental Engineer

SCS Engineers

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


SCS Engineers rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Are you looking for a career that will make an impact globally and within your local community? SCS is at the forefront of developing sustainable environmental solutions through innovative engineering with a focus on the solid waste industry, emission reductions, and renewable energy projects.   

As an entry-level engineer, you will provide engineering/design support to the Mid-Atlantic team within our existing solid waste practice which is focused on providing engineering and environmental services to private and municipal clients in the landfill, landfill gas, air permitting, and solid waste management industries. You’ll receive hands-on training and mentorship while gaining valuable experience in both the field and the office. Potential projects include landfill and other solid waste facility permitting and design (all phases, including construction plans, specifications and construction documents), engineering analysis, feasibility studies, report writing, as well as construction oversight. You will be based out of our Blacksburg, VA office with occasional local travel for fieldwork.


As an entry-level engineer, you will contribute to a variety of technical, regulatory, and engineering tasks, including:

  • Prepare engineering calculations in support of reports and design and permit documents.
  • Prepare engineering and permitting design drawings using AutoCAD.
  • Prepare permit applications and/or regulatory agency submittals and responses with supporting documentation.
  • Complete quality control reviews on all work (reports, design plans, design calculations, data, etc.) prior to submission.
  • Coordinate with contractors, subcontractors, and clients as directed.
  • Prepare short form site-specific health and safety plans as requested.
  • Participate in health and safety training as required.
  • Conduct and document construction quality assurance observations in the field to ensure compliance with construction documents.
  • Work may include both office and field activities, such as field meetings with clients.
  • Multi-media sampling (soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment, air) and reporting.
  • Oversight of construction activities, collection of samples, etc., as well as office activities including engineering analysis.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

  • Bachelor of Science degree in civil, environmental, biosystems, or geotechnical engineering required.
  • 3 months of relevant solid waste, environmental and/or engineering internship, work and/or research experience required.
  • Basic AutoCAD and Autodesk Civil3D knowledge is preferred.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal technical communication skills.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferred.
  • Valid Driver’s License with a driving record in good standing required.

Learn more about our entry-level professionals!

https://youtu.be/UVCKWZq8RO0?si=sPvZb4_ZUyg_UQRg


USD $70,000.00 - USD $75,000.00 /Yr.
Please note that our pay ranges are determined by several factors, including relevant experience, internal pay equity, and location. They do not include any of the amazing benefits of being an employee-owner, which are listed below.
SCS is building a world where environmental systems and infrastructure strengthen the health, safety and resilience of communities from reducing methane emissions at landfills to producing alternative energy, from repurposing contaminated properties to sequestering carbon.
As a 100% employee-owned firm, we bring a long-term perspective, personal ownership and shared success to everything we do. We live our values every day: We care. We are a team. We are tenacious.
Join us and be part of a team where your work has real impact on the world and on your own growth.
As a growing firm, we offer excellent opportunities for career advancement and a comprehensive package, including:
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance
100% employer- funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 401K including employer match
Annual Bonus Program
Student Debt Employer Contribution Program
Paid holidays, PTO and Paid Parental Leave
SCS Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). SCS provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disabled status.
If you have questions, difficulty using our online system and/or you need an accommodation due to a disability then please contact us about your interest in employment at recruiting@scsengineers.com
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