Sustainable Tourism Intern

Who we are

We are an environmental consulting company. What’s our purpose? We put nature at the heart of decision-making by developing science-based solutions.

We support public and private entities that want to improve the environmental, social and economic impacts of policies, projects and investments. As a spin-off of the University of Padova and a certified B Corp; we work locally and internationally bringing scientific innovation into everyone’s life.

At Etifor we like teamwork, we work hard and we never stop being curious: being part of the team means sharing our values (read our Culture Manifesto to find out more). For us the only thing that really matters is how green your heart is: we welcome and value (bio)diversity in all its forms!

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for an Intern interested in sustainable tourism management, to join our Tourism Team. The team’s work is highly diverse, ranging from destination start-up and management to implementing sustainability practices and certification for tourism operators and destinations.

Role and responsibilities

The Tourism team is highly dynamic, constantly challenging itself by exploring new approaches, such as regenerative tourism, and participating in training, events, and international projects. As an intern, you will contribute to these efforts by supporting destinations and operators in implementing sustainable management systems through the following activities:

• Support for the GSTC certification for sustainable tourism: you will collaborate on projects supporting tourism operators and destinations to get prepared for the certification by analysing and reporting their impacts, identifying areas for improvement and developing tailored sustainability reports.

Education

We will positively assess university studies with a focus on sustainable tourism.

While the educational background says a lot about a person, we know that it is not everything. If you think you have the right spirit, knowledge and skills for this role, send us your application!

Experience

We value your experience in the field and your passion for tourism. If you have practical experience in sustainable tourism, destination management or sustainability assessment, whether through work, internships, or academic projects, we would love to hear about it.

Required skills

The person we're looking for:

• Is in love with data analysis and digital tools (Excel is your friend!).
• Is methodical and resourceful, but also curious and predisposed to continuous improvement.
• Has proficiency in English (no translation tools needed!).
• Has knowledge of (but also passion for) destination management and sustainability in tourism.
• Believes that tourism should be at the service of the territory and not vice versa.
• Shares our company’s passion for nature, ethics and sustainability values.
• Has a genuine interest in our team and mission.

This role involves business trips, so availability for travel and frequent presence at our offices in Padua is required.

Nice-to-have:

• Familiarity with tourism regulations and third-party certifications, in particular experience with GSTC standards and certification processes.
• Background in hospitality, data analysis, or tech solutions for tourism.

What We Offer

The Etifor team will support your growth within the company in an international and friendly corporate environment. In particular, we provide:

• A dynamic, young, and innovative environment that values diversity and inclusion.
• The internship is hybrid, with regular in-person presence at our Padua offices and the option to work remotely, to ensure both hands-on mentoring and flexibility.
• Professional growth opportunities with tailored paths, mentoring, and numerous training and development opportunities (keep in mind that Etifor is a spin-off from the University of Padua).
• A team working at both the local and international levels to reconnect people with nature by addressing climate change and biodiversity loss issues.

Contract info

Start Date: September 2026

Work Location: Etifor's office in Padua at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, No. 41.

Contract Type: Full-time internship, 6 months, Monday to Friday, €700/month + meal vouchers for days in the office.

Part-time arrangements may be considered

Hope we gave you all the information you need to consider joining our amazing team!