Internship- Career Discovery Internship Program

About us:
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.

Program Overview:

Founded in 2008, in partnership with the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service, the Career Discovery Internship Program provides paid summer internships for college students interested in wildlife careers. Positions are available in a variety of fields, including visitor services, education, natural resource management and more.

We strongly encourage students who identify as Black, Alaskan Native, American Indian, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, or from other racial minority groups to apply and join us in supporting diverse and inclusive conservation efforts.

Program Dates:

  • 5/26/2025 - 8/23/2025 (Not flexible due to orientation)
  • 12-week summer internship

Location: Interns will be placed across various U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service regions across the country.

Primary Responsibilities:

Interns will work closely with professionals in the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and gain exposure to various conservation disciplines. Responsibilities will include:

  • Assisting with conservation and natural resource management projects in assigned field or department.
  • Engaging in educational programs and public outreach to promote conservation efforts.
  • Supporting visitor services, helping coordinate public tours and educational activities.
  • Gaining hands-on experience in environmental education and natural resource management practices.
  • Participating in daily tasks, collaborating with agency staff, and contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
  • Wildlife monitoring

Interns will also:

  • Attend a mandatory one-week orientation to prepare for the internship.
  • Receive assigned tasks and projects related to wildlife conservation, resource management, and public engagement.
  • Work alongside agency staff and mentors to meet program and site-specific goals.

Intern Qualifications:

  • Must be incoming college sophomores and juniors.(Any major)
  • Enthusiastic about conservation and environmental work, with a willingness to learn.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to adapt to a variety of tasks and settings.
  • Car required for some locations
  • Driver's license may be required for some locations

Intern Benefits and Compensation:

  • Weekly Living Allowance: $620 per week.
  • Travel Allowance: $1,000
  • Housing: Provided by the Student Conservation Association or U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
  • Mentorship: Assigned mentor from U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
  • Orientation: Paid expenses for mandatory orientation in May.

For more information, please contact the Recruiting Coordinator, Bridget Correa, at bcorrea@thesca.org and Alex Castro at acastro@thesca.org

The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to help support inclusive and effective conservation efforts.