Think Beyond The Label Jobs

Utility Forester Intern

Great Lakes Energy is seeking two temporary Utility Forester Interns to join our team for the summer: one will be located in the Boyne City service area and the other will be located in the Newaygo service area. This opportunity is ideal for a college student pursuing a degree in a related field, who has a genuine interest in forestry and the electric utility industry. The position will work alongside our experienced forestry team to assist in planning vegetation work around power lines.

Who We Are

For over 85 years, Great Lakes Energy has powered rural communities across 26 counties in western and northern Michigan. As the third-largest Michigan-based electric utility and the state's largest member-owned power company, we serve over 128,000 meters with pride. Beyond delivering reliable electricity, we are leaders in advanced fiber technology through Truestream, our communication solutions subsidiary.

At Great Lakes Energy, we prioritize enriching the lives of our community members and employees. With over 300 team members, we're more than just colleagues-we're a close-knit family, united by a shared vision of growth, innovation, and community service.

A Day in The Life of a Utility Forester Intern

As a temporary Utility Forester Intern, you will be immersed in the world of vegetation management, assisting us in providing reliable electric service to our rural members, and supporting the Cooperative's safety and environmental stewardship goals. Your experience will give you a leg up as you continue your education, providing hands-on experience in the electric utility industry. You will spend most of your day outside, learning the day-to-day of a utility forester: identifying and assessing potential hazards, documenting field surveys and inspections, implementing tree-trimming schedules to help minimize power outages, using GIS technology, and educating cooperative members about vegetation management practices as it relates to electrical reliability.

Who You Are

You are a self-starter who thrives in both independent and team settings. Your communication skills are top-notch, and you have a desire to learn about utility vegetation management. You have a basic knowledge of tree identification, and you are currently in a degree program in forestry, environmental science, urban forestry, or another related field. Ideally, you have looked into certification with the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and have some experience in forestry, tree care, or environmental management.

You have a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and you are very eager to learn more about utility operations and vegetation management processes. You take pride in your work and can confidently represent the company to contractors and members. With a strong sense of responsibility, you manage and prioritize a variety of tasks, always staying focused on safety and efficiency. You are detail-oriented and comfortable working outdoors.

What's in It for You?

Great Lakes Energy is proudly run by professionals and experts in their field, providing a perfect learning experience for the ideal student seeking an internship in the forestry field. Some highlights of your experience include:

• Fair compensation, commensurate on years of education.
• Hands-on experience in the field of utility forestry.
• The opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals in the electric utility sector.
• Networking opportunities both internally with GLE staff and externally with vendors and members.
• A dynamic work environment where safety and professionalism are top priorities.

How To Apply

We know your time is valuable and that's why our application is short. Grab your resume and answer a few short ques