The intern will support sustainability initiatives, including education, resiliency, and efficiency efforts within the firm. They will also assist in tracking and reporting progress toward the AIA 2030 Commitment using the Design Data Exchange platform.
Requirements overview
Candidates must be current students or recent graduates with a basic understanding of architectural design and construction principles. Applicants should have an interest in sustainable building practices and the ability to work in person at least three days per week.
LRS Architects is a majority women-owned architecture and interior design firm with offices in Portland and Bend, Oregon. Founded in 1976, the award-winning practice is driven by a passion for good design that goes beyond aesthetics to create vibrant communities and spaces that support the well-being of those who inhabit them. With 100+ design professionals, the firm is committed to partnering collaboratively with clients to positively shape the human experience though the physical environment. The diversity of the firm’s project experience provides a broad perspective and proven expertise in design, problem solving, documentation, and project delivery methods. The firm’s work, while centered in the Pacific Northwest, is found through the United States in over 30 states and internationally. Recognized with dozens of awards, the practice’s work has been featured in hundreds of publications, including ARCHITECT, Fast Company, ENR, Archello, and Office Snapshots, among many others. LRS has been named an Oregonian Top Workplace Award Winner annually since 2016. lrsarchitects.com
Description
Design. People. Trust
LRS Architects is seeking a motivated Sustainability Intern to join our Net Zero Emerging Leaders Internship program for a 12-week experience beginning in January 2027. This part-time opportunity (12–24 hours per week) is designed for a current student or recent graduate interested in sustainable design, building performance, and advancing the built environment toward a net-zero future.
Working with our Environmental Stewardship Committee, you’ll contribute to LRS’s sustainability initiatives, explore ways to improve building performance, and help strengthen how we track and report our progress toward the AIA 2030 Commitment.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
Support LRS’s Sustainability Action Plan through initiatives focused on education, resiliency, and efficiency
Education: Help develop and share resources that educate employees about sustainability initiatives, tools, technologies, and client education
Resiliency: Identify and share resources that support improved sustainable design practices across our market sectors
Efficiency: Research and evaluate building systems and design approaches that improve energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact
Help streamline and/or automate the firm’s AIA 2030 Commitment reporting process using the AIA’s Design Data Exchange (DDx) platform
Collaborate with the Environmental Stewardship Committee and other team members to support the firm’s sustainability goals.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING:
Current enrollment in an educational program or graduation within the past year
A basic understanding of architectural design and construction principles
Interest in sustainability, energy-efficient buildings, and environmentally responsible design
Ability to work independently, manage your time, and complete assigned tasks within established timelines
Effective communication skills and an interest in collaborating with project teams and office leadership
Availability to work 12–24 hours per week for 12 weeks beginning in January 2027
Ability to work in person at least three days per week. A hybrid in-person/remote arrangement is available.
WHY LRS?
At LRS Architects, we believe thoughtful design can make a meaningful difference in the built environment. Our commitment to sustainability is part of how we approach our work, collaborate as a team, and plan for the future.
This internship offers an opportunity to contribute to real sustainability initiatives, gain exposure to architectural practice, and help advance the firm's efforts toward more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible design.
If you're a current student or recent graduate who is curious about sustainable design and excited to help shape a more sustainable built environment, we'd love to hear from you!
Apply online at: https://lrsarchitects.com/workwithus
Requirements
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE WE VALUE:
Familiarity with sustainability metrics, the AIA 2030 Commitment, and building performance concepts
Interest in energy use, thermal performance, energy modeling, and other factors that influence sustainable building design
Experience or familiarity with energy modeling tools, data management, or sustainability software is a plus, but not required
Curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn and explore new approaches to sustainability.