The Siegele Conservation Science Internship Program
About
The Siegele Conservation Science Internship Program is an opportunity for CSU undergraduate students to work alongside conservation professionals and practitioners to gain experience in the many aspects of field sciences that support natural resources and biodiversity conservation.
Each summer, approximately 15 interns receive paid, professional training from CNHP biologists and participate in field-oriented conservation research projects across Colorado. Since 2016, interns have worked with CNHP staff as they conduct projects such as Bioblitzes, county biological surveys, wetland condition assessments, rare plant and wildlife surveys, and/or vegetation monitoring.
Interns learn the history, methods, and mission of CNHP and the NatureServe Network. They also develop skills in plant identification, vegetation sampling, field survey techniques, monitoring protocols, biotic and abiotic data collection, navigation, GIS, data management and analysis, and science communication.
CNHP strives to provide a valuable, hands-on learning experience. All interns have an opportunity to explore potential career paths and accomplish meaningful, conservation-focused work.
Students who have completed the program have gone on to work for the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program and more!
all communities are encouraged to apply!
Requirements
- Must be available May 26-August 21
- Open to all CSU undergraduates who are matriculated students during summer 2026 and interested in pursuing a career in natural resources (you do not need to be enrolled in summer credits)
- Have an expressed passion for conservation science and field research
- Interns may work on projects that require long hikes in variable weather conditions, travel across the state, and overnight camping. However, no previous camping or outdoor skills are required.
- Upon completion, interns will provide a final presentation and blog story about their summer experience
Benefits
- Earn $16.50/hour + travel expenses
- Learn about rare species and habitats
- Provide critical field support
- Gain field experience and work on projects throughout Colorado
- Develop applied conservation skills
- Build your resume and grow your network
- Obtain Wilderness First Aid certification
- Earn academic credit, if needed, by working with your CSU academic advisor
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Receive internship credit for ESS, FWCB, and HDNR majors or undergraduate Honors Thesis
Application Instructions
- The following application materials must be received by Monday, March 2, 2026.
- Resume including your career objective(s)
- Cover letter highlighting your interest in natural resource
conservation and participating in field research - College Transcripts
- Apply through CSU's Workday platform.
Timeline
- Application Deadline: March 2
- Interviews: March
- Final Selections: March-April
- Note: Students must be available May 26-August 21
Applicants should view the following materials before submitting their application
Siegele Conservation Internship Experience – Story Map by Renee Lile, 2019 Intern
Siegele Conservation Science Internship YouTube video
Questions & More Information
Jess Cheadle
Volunteer and Program Coordinator
who make this internship program possible!
