Worm Return Internship

About Us:
Worm Return is a Pittsburgh-based, women-owned small business focused on keeping food waste out of landfills. We partner with local businesses and households to collect food scraps and transform them into high-quality compost. In addition to composting, we support green infrastructure projects such as rain barrel installations, solar panel initiatives, and stormwater management solutions.

Position Overview:
We are seeking motivated and environmentally conscious interns to join our team. This flexible, hands-on internship allows students to tailor their experience based on their interests. Interns can choose to focus on composting operations or green infrastructure projects and can shape their role around either gaining practical field experience or developing an independent research project in partnership with our team.

Responsibilities (may vary based on focus area):

• Assist with food scrap collection and compost processing (composting track).
• Support installation and maintenance of green infrastructure projects such as rain barrels, solar panels, and stormwater systems (green infrastructure track).
• Participate in physical tasks such as hauling, sorting, and site maintenance.
• Assist with community outreach and sustainability education efforts.
• Contribute to ongoing projects or help design an independent research initiative.

Qualifications:

• Interest in sustainability, environmental studies, food systems, or related fields
• Willingness to perform physical labor such as being able to haul 50+ lbs. and work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Strong work ethic and reliability.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small team.
• Curiosity and initiative, especially for students interested in shaping their own experience.

Preferred (but not required):

• Coursework or experience in sustainability, agriculture, environmental science, or related fields
• Interest in composting, waste reduction, green infrastructure, or circular economy practices

What You’ll Gain:

• A customizable internship experience aligned with your interests and goals
• Hands-on experience in either composting operations or green infrastructure work
• Opportunity to design and pursue an independent research project (optional)
• Mentorship from a small, mission-driven team
• Real-world insight into sustainability work at the community level