DEQ is an equal opportunity employer by both policy and practice. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive work environment with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, or against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities. It is DEQ’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination. DEQ will provide, if requested, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of accommodation in order to provide access to the application and/or interview process.  

With six regional offices throughout the state and a central office located in Richmond, DEQ employs a wide range of professionals in varying fields – from engineers and scientists to information technology and communications specialists. All positions work collectively toward one goal: safeguarding Virginia’s diverse and abundant natural resources, which benefit agriculture, industry and commerce, and provide a rich environment for people, plants and wildlife. 

If you’re looking for a career in which you can make the most of your education and professional skills, with opportunities for growth and job security, DEQ is the place for you.

Human Resources
hrocommunications@deq.virginia.gov

Benefits Overview

The Commonwealth of Virginia offers comprehensive benefits designed to meet the needs of all our employees, including but not limited to:

• Medical insurance (including dental and vision)
• Advantageous retirement plans
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
  • 12 State Holidays
  • 12+ Annual Leave (depending on years of service)
  • 4 Personal Leave days
  • 8 Sick Leave days
• Tuition reimbursement 

Visit DHRM for a full overview of benefits offered to state employees.

Summer 2026 Internship Program

The application for DEQ's Summer Internship Program is closed. 

About the program 

Are you a college sophomore or junior passionate about protecting Virginia’s air, land, and water? If so, our paid summer internship program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of how DEQ safeguards the environment for the health and well-being of all Virginians. Work alongside dedicated environmental professionals, build valuable skills, and set yourself on a path to a successful career in the environmental field.

Details 

• Starting Salary: $16.26/Hour (State Benefits Not Included)
• Application Opening: Wednesday, January 7, 2026
• Application Closing: Friday, January 16, 2026
• Internship Timeframe: June 1, 2026 - August 7, 2026 (10-week program)

Multiple locations available across six regional offices

• Abingdon, VA
• Glen Allen, VA
• Harrisonburg, VA
• Salem, VA
• Virginia Beach, VA
• Woodbridge, VA

• Field Experience: Conduct regulatory inspections and participate in fieldwork under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
• Data Analysis & Management: Analyze environmental data, perform data entry, and manage vital records.
• Reporting & Communication: Create insightful graphs and prepare summary/progress reports based on your inspections and fieldwork.
• Learning & Growth: Receive personalized mentoring to set learning goals and discuss your progress. Participate in training sessions that deepen your understanding of federal and state environmental laws, regulations, and DEQ programs.

Why This Internship?

• Gain real-world experience in a variety of environmental disciplines.
• Develop a strong foundation in environmental regulations and agency operations.
• Engage in professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Contribute to projects that directly impact local environmental protection efforts.

This is your chance to gain invaluable insights and experience in environmental science, all while helping protect our planet for future generations!

Qualifications

• Major coursework in environmental sciences. 
• Practical, hands-on experience in an environmental science related discipline.  
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.  
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a member of a team.  
• Ability to work independently under the supervision of technical staff.  
• Basic computer skills in word processing and database applications.
• Computational, analytical, organizational and time management skills.  
• Attention to detail.  
• Ability to work outside in summer heat or other adverse weather conditions. 
• Ability to ambulate mountainous terrain and uneven flowing stream bottoms and working on boats may be required for some positions. 
• Ability to travel to the City of Richmond for the program’s first week orientation.  
• Strong work ethic that embodies DEQ’s mission, vision and values.  
• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university as a second- or third-year student with an anticipated graduation date of either 2027 or 2028. 

Eligibility

Current sophomore or junior at an accredited college or university with major coursework in environmental sciences. 

Need Help?

Email Human Resources at HROCommunications@deq.virginia.gov with questions

• If the role you are applying for requires specific certifications, be sure to draw extra attention to that, by adding that license or certification into the application itself, not just within your resume.  
• If the role does not have a required certification, but you have a relevant certification or professional learning experience, include it. For example, if the job requires ”experience with spreadsheets to track the unit’s expenses”, then show on your application or resume the advanced spreadsheet course that you completed 3 months ago at the community college.