Biology Internship at Xcel Energy USA
Launch your career in environmental and life sciences with a hands-on biology internship at Xcel Energy. This paid internship opportunity for life science students offers real-world exposure to biology and water sciences while working with a leading energy provider in the United States. Ideal for students seeking impactful internships in the USA, this role combines fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data-driven research.
About the Company
Xcel Energy is a leading electricity and natural gas provider serving millions of customers across eight U.S. states. Known for safety, sustainability, and innovation, Xcel Energy is committed to environmental stewardship and community impact. The company offers rewarding career pathways and high-quality internships in the USA for aspiring science professionals.
Internship Details
- Intern Title: Biology Water Sciences Intern
- Employment Type: Internship (Paid)
- Work Schedule: Full-Time (40 hours/week)
- Start Date: June 1, 2026
- Location: Welch, Minnesota (Prairie Island Environmental Laboratory)
Additional worksites across the Twin Cities Metro and surrounding areas
Minnesota & Wisconsin field locations - Application Deadline: February 12, 2026
Position Overview
Xcel Energy is seeking a Biology Water Sciences Intern to support the Environmental Services Department in conducting biology and water science studies at power plants throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. This hands-on internship provides practical field, laboratory, and data analysis experience within the energy industry, with extensive outdoor and aquatic fieldwork.
Interns will gain valuable professional and technical skills through direct field experience, laboratory processing, data analysis, and mentorship from experienced environmental scientists.
Key Responsibilities
- Participate in field crews (2–4 people) conducting aquatic sampling using:
- Electrofishing
- Seines
- Kick nets
- Collect and record biological data, including:
- Fish species identification
- Length and weight measurements
- Process preserved samples (minnows, larval fish, macroinvertebrates) in a laboratory setting and identify to species level
- Operate water quality monitoring equipment, including:
- Turbidity meters
- pH meters
- Hydrolabs
- Data loggers
- Enter and manage field data using Excel spreadsheets
- Assist with data analysis, statistical summaries, graph and table creation, and report writing
Work Environment
- Significant time spent outdoors, often working from boats
- Exposure to varying and inclement weather conditions
- Non-traditional work schedules may be required, including extended hours, nights, and weekends
Minimum Qualifications for Biology Internship
- Currently enrolled (as of May 2026) in an accredited college or university pursuing a B.S. or advanced degree in:
- Biology
- or a related science-based discipline
- Ability to commute to:
- Prairie Island Environmental Laboratory (1717 Wakonade Dr., Welch, MN)
- Various Twin Cities Metro and regional worksites
- Availability to work full-time (40 hours/week) during the summer internship
Preferred Qualifications
- GPA of 3.0 or higher (4.0 scale)
- Completed coursework in:
- Aquatic Biology
- Ichthyology
- Limnology
- Aquatic Insects
- Hydrology
- Chemistry
- Experience working outdoors and/or from boats
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools
Compensation & Benefits of Biology Internship
- Hourly Pay Range: $17.40 – $27.90
- Eligible Benefits:
- Pension
- 401(k) Plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Holidays
- Internship may extend beyond summer into part-time work during the academic year based on performance and business needs
