State Park Intern – Pymatuning State Park Complex (College)

Are you an energetic and enthusiastic student who is motivated to conserve Pennsylvania’s beautiful natural resources and make a positive impact for present and future generations alike? If so, join the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR) as a State Park Intern and learn the essential skills necessary to assist in caring for our priceless state park system. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience to learn about vital park operations and environmental education while assisting visitors in enjoying the natural landscapes of the Commonwealth. If you are ready to make a meaningful contribution to your community and acquire the skills needed to secure a rewarding and fulfilling career, we encourage you to apply today!

As a State Park Intern, you will acquire the skills necessary to regularly conduct boat inspections at boat launch areas within Pymatuning State Park in order to create awareness of and minimize the spread of aquatic invasive species. You will also be involved with other aspects of resource management, including plant inventories, herbicide applications, and stream enhancements.
Specific responsibilities will involve gaining familiarity with invasive species, furthering your knowledge base of successful resource management programs within Pennsylvania and other states, and thoroughly reviewing park programming and goals. You will also visit specific boat launch areas and engage with boaters to perform visual boat checks, collect data, and offer information regarding aquatic invasive hitchhikers and the fishery. In addition, you will assist neighboring parks as needed and you will be responsible for learning and disseminating park rules and regulations to ensure safety and compliance, while also delivering exceptional customer service to the public, thereby fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time internship that will run from 5/1/2026 through 8/28/2026.
• Work hours are typically 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a 30-minute lunch. Hours may be completed during nights and weekends, not to exceed 37.5 hours/week.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS
Internship Requirements:

• Enrollment in good academic standing as a FULL-TIME student in a two-year, bachelor’s, or advanced degree program in:
  • Parks and Resource Management
  • Biology
  • Environmental Science
  • Wildlife and Fisheries Science
• An approved major course which includes a qualifying 24 credit hours of study in the physical, biological, and environmental sciences may be acceptable.
• Good academic standing (2.0 GPA or higher)
• Freshman year completed by May 2026
• Pennsylvania residency or enrollment of a Pennsylvania college or university

Additional Requirements:

• You must possess a valid driver’s license which is not under suspension.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• In accordance with Act 153 of 2014, this position is required to complete Child Abuse, Criminal and Federal Criminal History Checks within 10 days of hire.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the Application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• This posting requires submission of a copy of your college transcript(s). Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You may upload your document as an attachment during the application process. You must still complete the application and answer the supplemental questions. All documents MUST be uploaded prior to the submission of your application.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.