About the role#
River Partners is seeking a Data Science Intern to support our environmental restoration efforts. This position is based in Chico, California, and runs from September to December 2026. This is a paid, part-time role expected to be up to 20 hours per week, with a schedule flexible enough to accommodate your classes.
What you'll do#
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to analyze and interpret complex data.
- Develop scripts and dashboards to analyze monitoring data for wildlife and vegetation.
- Integrate ArcGIS Pro with field data collection software to streamline workflows.
- Support research components of habitat restoration projects using climate and habitat suitability models.
- Complete an individual special research project related to restoration science and practice.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in the Data Science and Analytics (MSDSA) Master’s program at Chico State.
- Familiarity with data analysis tools and programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL.
- Coursework or experience in machine learning, statistical modeling, or data visualization.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Location & details#
- Location: Chico, California (On-site).
- Term: Fall 2026.
- Compensation: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour.
About River Partners
River Partners is a nonprofit organization founded in 1998 that focuses on restoring river corridors throughout California. The group works to rebuild wild places and create habitats for native species while providing natural flood protection and water conservation. Based in Chico, the organization operates with 85 employees across multiple locations in the state. It maintains the largest on-the-ground restoration footprint of any similar organization in the western United States.
How to get in at River Partners
Securing an internship at River Partners requires a proactive approach to their recruitment cycle. Because they manage large-scale ecological projects across California, roles can appear and fill quickly. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first, as early applicants get seen before the pile grows. Being at the front of the queue is a significant advantage in a competitive field. You can also improve your chances by connecting with the people actually managing these projects. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the role or a referral, which materially improves response rates. A direct, professional inquiry often cuts through the noise of a standard application.
