Internship Opportunity: Bioremediation Field Intern
Field Bioremediation Volunteer Internship
Organization: Centre for Applied Ecological Remediation (CAER)
Locations: Los Angeles County (field-based; sites across Los Angeles, Altadena, and some in the Palisades)
Positions Available: 20
Time Commitment: 50 to 120 hours in spring 2026
Compensation: Volunteer position with a $500 transportation
Schedule: Daytime / daylight hours
About CAER
The Centre for Applied Ecological Remediation (CAER) is a nonprofit organization advancing science-based, community-centered approaches to remediating contaminated land using ecological methods, including fungi, plants, and soil biology. Our work integrates environmental science, hands-on field implementation, and environmental justice to restore land impacted by pollution, fire, and industrial activity.
Internship Overview
CAER is offering a Field Bioremediation Volunteer Internship for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in ecological remediation and applied environmental science. Interns will assist with real-world bioremediation projects at active sites across Los Angeles County.
This internship is designed for students, early-career professionals, career-switchers, and community members interested in environmental remediation. No prior experience is required. Comprehensive training, safety oversight, and PPE will be provided.
Training & Support Provided
Free participation in a 2-day intensive bioremediation training, covering:
Fundamentals of bioremediation and mycoremediation
Soil, plant, and fungal sampling methods
Health, safety, and contamination-control protocols
Field implementation and monitoring practices
On-the-job training throughout the internship
All required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided
Professional supervision and structured field protocols
$500 transportation stipend to support participation
Intern Responsibilities
Field Implementation & Installation
Assist with bioremediation activities, including:
Soil preparation and amendment
Planting and maintenance of remediation plantings
Fungal inoculation (e.g., applying spawn or inocula)
Installation and maintenance of irrigation systems
Sampling & Monitoring
Support collection of soil, plant, and fungal samples
Assist with site monitoring and maintenance
Help document field activities (photos, field notes)
General Field Support
Assist with setup and breakdown of field sites
Maintain tools and supplies
Follow safety, PPE, and contamination-control procedures at all times
Who Should Apply
No prior experience required
Comfortable performing physical outdoor work, including lifting, digging, bending, and standing
Comfortable working on contaminated sites (with PPE and safety protocols provided)
Interested in environmental science, remediation, ecology, climate resilience, or environmental justice
Able to participate during daylight hours
Reliable and able to follow safety and field protocols
Work Environment
Hands-on, outdoor field work at active remediation sites
Physically demanding but highly collaborative environment
Sites located throughout Los Angeles County, including Altadena and the Palisades
Close mentorship and exposure to applied environmental remediation projects
What Interns Gain
Hands-on experience with real-world bioremediation projects
Training in ecological remediation, soil health, and fungal-based methods
Exposure to environmental field research and implementation
Opportunity to build skills relevant to careers in environmental science, restoration, and sustainability
Connection to a network of scientists, practitioners, and community partners
How to Apply
CAER is committed to equity and access in environmental work and strongly encourages applicants from communities historically impacted by environmental contamination and climate change.