Public Health Intern - Environmental Health

POSITION: PUBLIC HEALTH INTERN (SUMMER 2026)

Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is seeking a Public Health Intern to join our Environmental Health department. In this role, you will enjoy a flexible work environment where you can improve public health and improve the effectiveness of the health department. This is a summer 2026 internship based out of our Hastings, MI office.

If you are looking for a summer internship opportunity that will give you hands-on experience and allow you to enjoy the great outdoors, all while making the difference in the community, this is a great opportunity for you!

BEDHD is a nationally accredited public health service agency for Barry and Eaton counties. We protect and improve the health of Barry and Eaton counties through education; promotion of healthy lifestyles; and implementation of effective policies and programs for individuals, families, businesses, and communities. Our vision is a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and active life.

In this Public Health Intern role, you will have the opportunity to: 

1.     Collect surface water samples at designated public beaches in the community and conduct sanitary beach surveys.

2.     Transport samples to our community partner’s laboratories for analysis.

3.     Set and monitor traps across the district and collect mosquito specimens for identification by Environmental Health employees.

4.     Assist Environmental Health employees with tick collection and identification.

5.    Assist with site evaluations and inspections for well and septic permitting activities.

6.     Participate in team meetings.

7.     Assist with creation of reports of grant activities.

Ideal Candidates qualifications:

1.    Current enrollment in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in public health, epidemiology, health education, health promotion, health communications, or a related field; or completion of degree within the past 12 months

2.     Pursuing a major in Environmental Health, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Sciences, or related field of study, preferred

3.     Available for 20-30 hours of work per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day (end date is flexible)

4.     Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact in a positive and professional manner

5.     Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

6.     Ability to travel for business throughout the region

Barry-Eaton District Health Department is an equal opportunity employer.