River Connections Intern

River Connections Intern 

Wild Rivers Conservancy is recruiting applicants for up to two River Connections internships at the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway during the summer of 2026. Positions will be a minimum of 10 weeks, beginning May 28th, 2026. 

Wild Rivers Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. We inspire stewardship to forever ensure the rare ecological integrity of the St. Croix and Namekagon Riverway. Learn more at: www.wildriversconservancy.org 

The Riverway, one of the nation’s first wild and scenic rivers, is a National Park consisting of 255 river miles that flow through some of the most scenic and least developed land in the Upper Midwest. Learn more at: www.nps.gov/sacn. 

position Summary 

The River Connections internship is stationed with Wild Rivers Conservancy and supervised by the Community Engagement Manager. The intern is responsible for assisting with K-12 environmental education programs and outdoor public programs to connect people to the Riverway and encourage stewardship of the watershed for generations to come. 

Core Functions 

• Assist with the Rivers Are Alive K-12 environmental education programs at schools, summer camps, parks, libraries, and locations throughout the watershed
• Support Explore Wild Rivers public recreation programs, such as kayaking, hiking, and fishing
• Help to promote the Conservancy at community events such as parades and booths
• Work directly with volunteers and other staff to deliver programs
• Work with diverse partners, including local, state, and federal government agencies, and nonprofit organizations
• Maintain and care for program supplies and equipment
• Contribute positively to the team environment

Qualifications 

• Must be a US citizen or permanent resident of the United States, with a valid state driver’s license
• Preference to college students or recent graduates with coursework in education, outdoor education, natural resources, biology, or a related field
• General knowledge of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is helpful
• Excitement for the natural world and a demonstrated ability to share it with others
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team, be detail-oriented and organized, and follow oral and written directions
• Ability to work with a flexible and changing schedule. Must be able to work some long days, weekends, and evenings
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds independently, and up to 50 pounds with assistance
• Must be able to begin internship on May 28th, 2026

Work Site and Conditions 

• Interns will be based at the Wild Rivers Conservancy office in Osceola, Wisconsin
• There will be travel throughout the St. Croix watershed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin
• This position will involve some physical activity, including walking, standing for long periods, and paddling a kayak or canoe at a variety of locations
• Schedules can be variable or on a week-to-week basis
• Assistance is given in finding affordable, temporary housing options, if needed
• Kayak training will be provided upon hiring; no specific paddling experience required to apply

Position and Wage Details 

This is a temporary, full-time internship ranging 32-40 hours weekly for a minimum of 10 weeks at a wage of $15/hr.