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Environmental & Civil Engineering
by: El Terreno
Safe and accessible water is a fundamental human right. However, in Atandahua and nearby communities near Guaranda in the Ecuadorian Andes, families suffer from contaminated water, deforestation, and poor storage and filtration. Water is drawn directly from open streams that carry soil and agricultural chemicals, leading to frequent gastrointestinal illnesses and water shortages. Local infrastructure is built on limited budgets and using informal methods, resulting in leaks and contamination. Deforestation has worsened droughts, shortened the growing season, and driven migration. Intern or volunteer in the Environmental & Civil Engineering program. You will design and implement community water projects with our experienced team. You will work on filtration systems, water storage, pipe repairs, watershed protection, and hygiene education. Previous participants have installed filters, supported irrigation for dozens of families, and planted thousands of trees. This practical internship (or volunteer placement) offers valuable real-world experience in engineering and community development while helping improve public health and environmental resilience in the Andean highlands.
Safe and accessible water is a fundamental human right. However, in Atandahua and nearby communities near Guaranda in the Ecuadorian Andes, families suffer from contaminated water, deforestation, and poor storage and filtration. Water is drawn directly from open streams that carry soil and agricultural chemicals, leading to frequent gastrointestinal illnesses and water shortages. Local infrastructure is built on limited budgets and using informal methods, resulting in leaks and contamination. Deforestation has worsened droughts, shortened the growing season, and driven migration. Intern or volunteer in the Environmental & Civil Engineering program. You will design and implement community water projects with our experienced team. You will work on filtration systems, water storage, pipe repairs, watershed protection, and hygiene education. Previous participants have installed filters, supported irrigation for dozens of families, and planted thousands of trees. This practical internship (or volunteer placement) offers valuable real-world experience in engineering and community development while helping improve public health and environmental resilience in the Andean highlands.
Program Highlights
Design and implement real water infrastructure projects, including filtration systems, storage solutions, and pipe repairs in remote Andean communities.
Gain hands-on experience in environmental and civil engineering while working alongside local families and experienced professionals.
Contribute to watershed protection through reforestation and sustainable land management in the majestic Ecuadorian Andes.
Develop practical skills in project planning, community engagement, and monitoring that will strengthen your CV significantly.
Live and work in beautiful rural Andean communities, building meaningful relationships and creating lasting impact on public health and water access.
Quick Details
- Guaranda, Ecuador
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- 9-12 Weeks
- Summer
- Ecology
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Studies
- Spanish
- Agriculture
- Environment
- All Nationalities
Awards
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Guaranda, Ecuador
Types and Subjects
- Fields
- Ecology
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Studies
- Spanish
- Causes
- Agriculture
- Environment
Availability
Years Offered: Year Round
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- 9-12 Weeks
- Summer
- Summer
- Winter
- Spring
- 1-3 Months
- 3-6 Months
- Fall
Age Requirement
18+
Guidelines
All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Couples, Group
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Some Program Activity Costs
- Wifi Costs
- Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
- Group Meals
- Some Equipment
- On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- Academic Advising
- Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
- Academic Credit
- Letter of Recommendation
- Certificate of Completion
- Emergency Support
- Internship Placement
- Training
Accommodation Options
- Dormitory
- Home-stays
Qualifications & Experience
- English
- Spanish
Language Skills Required
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Phone/Video Interview
- Online Application
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Environmental & Civil Engineering program cost?
The cost of the Environmental & Civil Engineering program is $250 per week.
What is the duration of this placement?
The Environmental & Civil Engineering placement lasts a minimum of 4 weeks.
Who can apply for this program?
The Environmental & Civil Engineering program is open for university students, recent graduates, and professionals from around the world. We welcome both interns and volunteers.
What kind of attitude do you look for in interns and volunteers?
As an organization committed to a community-based approach, we search for ethically minded participants who share our vision for a more vibrant, prosperous, and sustainable world. An ideal participant is passionate, proactive, able to meet deadlines, and takes pride in their work — all while desiring to step outside of their comfort zone, build authentic relationships, and become a member of our international community.
Is it safe to stay in Guaranda and Atandahua?
Yes! El Terreno is based in a peaceful rural community where people know and support each other. The region is considered very safe, and Atandahua even has its own local police station. There have been no security incidents involving our interns or community members since our start in 2021. We also maintain close partnerships with local authorities and provide 24/7 on-site support to ensure all participants feel safe and welcome.
Program Reviews
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Ready to Learn More?
Safe and accessible water is a fundamental human right. However, in Atandahua and nearby communities near Guaranda in the Ecuadorian Andes, families suffer from contaminated water, deforestation, and poor storage and filtration. Water is drawn directly from open streams that carry soil and agricultural chemicals, leading to frequent gastrointestinal illnesses and water shortages. Local infrastructure is built on limited budgets and using informal methods, resulting in leaks and contamination. Deforestation has worsened droughts, shortened the growing season, and driven migration. Intern or volunteer in the Environmental & Civil Engineering program. You will design and implement community water projects with our experienced team. You will work on filtration systems, water storage, pipe rep...
El Terreno
El Terreno
Ready to Learn More?
Safe and accessible water is a fundamental human right. However, in Atandahua and nearby communities near Guaranda in the Ecuadorian Andes, families suffer from contaminated water, deforestation, and poor storage and filtration. Water is drawn directly from open streams that carry soil and agricultural chemicals, leading to frequent gastrointestinal illnesses and water shortages. Local infrastructure is built on limited budgets and using informal methods, resulting in leaks and contamination. Deforestation has worsened droughts, shortened the growing season, and driven migration. Intern or volunteer in the Environmental & Civil Engineering program. You will design and implement community water projects with our experienced team. You will work on filtration systems, water storage, pipe rep...
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