About the Program

Forest Solutions is excited to offer a full-time, paid internship for high school and college students interested in ecology, natural resources, and conservation. This 7–8 week field-based program will run from June 2026 through early August 2026 and will take place across Hawaiʻi Island, from East to West Hawaiʻi.

Interns will support general ecosystem monitoring and conservation initiatives under the guidance of experienced natural resource professionals. The program is designed to provide hands-on field experience in ecological research, applied conservation, and collaborative land stewardship. Participants will engage in activities such as:

• Hiking and navigating remote and diverse field sites across Hawaiʻi Island.
• Identifying native and non-native plant species and assessing habitat conditions.
• Collecting ecological data, including vegetation and environmental measurements.
• Assisting with restoration efforts, such as planting, invasive species monitoring, and site assessments.

The program culminates in an independent project, where interns present their findings to project partners
at the end of the internship.

Qualifications

We are seeking motivated individuals who are:

• Comfortable working outdoors in remote forest locations under various weather conditions.
• Physically capable of hiking over rough terrain and camping for 3-4 nights per week if necessary.
• Interested in or pursuing a career in Natural Resources, Conservation, or Environmental Science—or simply eager to learn more about the environment.

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

No prior experience is necessary, as all skills will be developed during the internship. However, familiarity with the following is a plus:

• Hawaiian native and non-native plant species identification.
• Vegetation sampling methods.
• Orienteering and navigation skills.
• Global Positioning Systems (GPS).
• Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, Access).
• Basic knowledge of and respect for Hawaiian culture and practices.

Contact Information:

Aviva Gottesman

Phone: (808)-640-7118

Website: www.forestsolutionsinc.com

Instagram: @forest_solutionshawaii