Jobs, Internships, and Career Resources

Whether you're looking for your first internship, preparing for graduation, or exploring career options, there are many resources available to help you connect with employers in environmental and sustainability fields.

Start with Handshake

Handshake, Western Washington University's career platform, is the best place to find internships, jobs, on-campus employment, and career events.

Current students and alumni can register through WWU Career Services to access job postings and employer information. If you need assistance using Handshake or planning your job search, contact WWU Career Services at (360) 650-3240.

Build Your Professional Network

Joining a professional organization is one of the best ways to expand your network and discover opportunities that may never be advertised publicly. Many organizations offer:

• Reduced membership rates for students and recent graduates
• Members-only job and internship postings
• Scholarships and travel funding
• Professional development opportunities
• Conferences and networking events

The College of the Environment faculty and staff recommend exploring professional organizations related to your career interests. These organizations can help you build connections while you're still a student. 

Additional Job Search Resources

Expand your search by exploring opportunities through a variety of employers and job boards, including:

• USAJOBS – Federal jobs and student internships
• Washington State Careers – Employment and internship opportunities with Washington state agencies
• County governments – Many counties post environmental, planning, and natural resource positions on their employment websites.
• City governments – Local governments frequently hire interns and professionals in planning, sustainability, environmental services, and public works.
• Tribal governments and First Nations – Many Tribal governments offer environmental, fisheries, natural resource, and planning positions. Many opportunities are open to both Tribal members and non-members.
• Commercial job boards – Sites such as Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, and other career platforms can help you identify opportunities across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
• Northwest Environmental Business Council (NEBC) – Explore member organizations working across environmental consulting, engineering, clean technology, sustainability, and natural resource management. Research organizations that interest you and reach out to learn about potential opportunities.

Be Proactive

Many internships and jobs are filled through networking and direct outreach before they're widely advertised. Connect with faculty, attend professional events, join student organizations, and don't hesitate to introduce yourself to employers whose work interests you.

We wish you success in your internship and job search!