[Hiring] Floodplain Engineering Intern @Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Role Description

The Floodplain Engineering Intern will provide technical and administrative support to the DCR Flood Hazard Management Program. This role offers the opportunity to assist with development plan and permit review for the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The intern will be managed by the acting program director and mentored by senior floodplain engineers. They will gain hands-on technical experience in flood risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and hydrological data management.

• Compile and organize MEPA development proposals from the Environmental Monitor and develop initial project summaries under the supervision of engineering staff to determine if proposed developments intersect with mapped floodplains.
• Support the program’s NFIP audit functions by assisting with compliance review, organizing documentation review, and drafting clear summaries for review by senior engineers.
• Organize digital engineering and hydrologic files, ensuring that plans, maps, and technical reports are easily accessible for program staff.
• Gain hands-on experience with floodplain engineering, flood risk assessment, GIS mapping, engineering plan review, and regulatory compliance.
• Develop familiarity with FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA).
• Develop technical writing and hydrologic data management skills, receive mentoring from experienced floodplain engineers, and attend biweekly seminars on floodplain engineering topics.
• The internship can be performed remotely, with options for in-person professional development, networking, and field experience.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Hydrology, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of ArcGIS, interest in learning to read FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), interest in learning how to review engineering and site plans, interest in learning building code flood standards, proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, ability to work independently and request guidance as needed.

Requirements

• This internship is unpaid and designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field.
• Candidates may be eligible to earn academic credit through their college or university.
• First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Benefits

• Outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package.
• Support for you, your loved ones, and your future.

Company Description

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.

Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all.

DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreation facilities we care for – strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands.