DEQ Student Training & Experience Program (STEP)
The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality is excited to announce the Student Training & Experience Program (STEP) Initiative! This initiative is committed to seeking talented and motivated students to apply for opportunities within DEQ. Students will gain practical, hands-on experience and learn more about DEQ’s role in protecting the environment through paid summer work offered during the summer.
The NC DEQ Summer STEP Initiative has many benefits:
- Gain valuable hands-on working experience relevant to your major.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Gain confidence and begin to build the start of your career.
- Develop and build new skills.
Summer STEP opportunities will be offered from May 18, 2026 – July 26, 2026.
DEQ plans to offer many temporary opportunities during the summer. These opportunities will be paid, but no housing allowance will be provided. Typically, students are currently enrolled with an accredited college or university and are rising juniors, rising seniors, or graduate-level students.
Intern Testimonial Video
Application Process
The application window for STEP is now OPEN and closes Friday, April 3, 2026.
Current STEP Opportunities & Deadlines
| Position Title | Location | Pay Rate | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 | |
| Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 | |
The Impact of Regulatory Change on At-Risk Species Protection | Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 |
| Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 | |
| Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 | |
| Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 | |
| Raleigh, NC | $15/Hr. | April 3, 2026 |
Each STEP opportunity will have different requirements and qualifications. Below are possible requirements for eligibility:
- Rising sophomore/ junior/ senior/ graduate student currently enrolled with a college/ university (depends on position needs/requirements)
- Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills
- Must possess excellent interpersonal, collaborative, and team-building skills
- Must have the ability to present ideas professionally and work on a project team
Timeline
Task | Date |
|---|---|
Application Window Closes | Friday, April 3, 2026 |
Interview Window | Monday, April 13 - Friday, April 24, 2026 |
Interns Placed/Notified | Friday, May 1, 2026 |
Offer Letters Sent | Monday, May 4, 2026 |
Interns Start | Monday, May 18, 2026 |
Internship Concludes | Friday, July 26, 2026 |
Special Notes
- STEP opportunities will be paid and will last 10 weeks from the end of May through July.
- Housing allowance will not be provided by NC DEQ.
For questions, email deqinternships@deq.nc.gov
Ready to Apply?
Email the following to deqinternships@deq.nc.gov
Cover letter including your first and second internship preferences
Resume
Transcript of undergraduate or graduate records (unofficial transcripts are accepted)
Academic Credit
Some colleges give credit for internships. Students are responsible for arranging with their schools to receive credit.