Internship

The Role

Barr is seeking a geologist intern to join our Grand Rapids, Michigan, office for the summer of 2027. This role supports the Assessment and Remediation business unit, undertaking challenging and progressive work on projects related to the evaluation and remediation of contaminated sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Support site investigations, environmental sampling, and data collection by applying foundational geological/science principles.
• Assist in the analysis of environmental data and contribute to the development of remediation approaches.
• Help coordinate field activities and logistics, including contractor oversight and equipment preparation.
• Assist with tracking project progress and documenting key milestones.
• Contribute to the evaluation of site conditions and identification of potential solutions to environmental challenges.
• Learn to apply regulatory knowledge and scientific reasoning to real-world scenarios.
• Produce clear field notes, chain-of-custody and data summaries, figures, and draft report sections/emails for review.
• Provide concise status updates to project managers and stakeholders.
• Effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients to align technical work with project objectives while fostering strong, productive working relationships.
• Undertake assignments, individually or as part of a project team, including:
• On-site investigations of contaminated soil, sediment, groundwater, surface water, and vapor.
• Aquifer test performance and analysis.
• Construction observation.
• Development of site conceptual models.
• Preparation of drilling logs, geologic maps, cross-sections, and technical reports.

Work Environment & Travel

• Hybrid work arrangement may be considered, splitting time between a Barr office and a home office. Position is based in Barr's Grand Rapids, Michigan, office.
• Willingness to travel and periodically adjust personal schedules to meet project needs; up to 50–70% travel and fieldwork possible.
• Ability to work in locations that may feature rough terrain, limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities.
• Job assignments may involve work on waste disposal sites and sites requiring cleanup of hazardous materials.
• An OSHA-mandated physical exam may be required. Safety training will be provided.
• Applicants may be asked to participate in a drug screening program at the request of specific clients.
• Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain).
• Ability to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work individually in remote locations.
• Capable of standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site conditions.
• Ability to safely operate or work around environmental monitoring and sampling equipment.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Education: Geology, hydrogeology, geological engineering, or a related major. Must be a third- or fourth-year student with a minimum of one full-time semester of undergraduate or graduate coursework remaining after the internship.
• GPA: Minimum 3.0/4.0.
• Software: Strong computer skills, including word processing and use of spreadsheets. Familiarity with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Driver’s license: Possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship.

Helpful Additional Experience (Not Required)

• HAZWOPER certification: 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard certification.

Compensation

• Anticipated range of $22.66–$28.90 hourly.
• Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors.
• This position is classified as non-exempt (hourly).