The Student Conservation Association is seeking interns for its Integrated Fire and Recreation Internship with the U.S. Forest Service. The program is a full-time, 16-week, paid internship which prioritizes mission-critical work in fire and recreation while providing young adults with a high-quality internship experience.
The program includes basic firefighter training, a work capacity test, and basic trail management and maintenance. After the training, interns go on to work in forestry districts implementing what they learned in the field. We value and seek greater diversity in our programs to enrich and broaden our community and tackle ever-changing and more complex conservation and social issues.
Applicants who self-identify as women or members of other marginalized communities are encouraged to apply. Cis and trans women, as well as non-binary and gender non-conforming people, are also welcome.
Dates: Jan. 19, 2025 – May 10, 2025
Internship starts with two weeks training followed by 14 week placement in the field.
$600/week living allowance
$1000/month Housing or monthly housing allowance provided
Hands-on experience
$1,100 Travel allowance paid once
Additional payment based on amount of active duty fire work with the U.S. Forest Service
Red card certification (Wildland Fire)
If internship is completed, interns will earn the Public Land Corps Hiring Authority giving them eligibility to apply to merit vacancy announcements for two years.
Likely potential to extend internship
Training and skill-building needed to effectively compete for permanent positions throughout the Region.
U.S. Citizen; Ages 18-30 years of age
Vehicle required for service at all locations
A Health Screening Questionnaire will be required from each member after hire
All members will be required to receive a physical via Acuity Health (hired candidates will have no out-of-pocket costs for physical)
Work Capacity Test (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level is a ”condition of employment.” The Arduous fitness (Pack) Test requires completing a three (3) mile hike within forty-five (45) minutes, while carrying a forty-five (45) pound pack.
Under close supervision, receive on-the-job training in fire suppression and prevention
Assist with fuel management fire suppression such as fireline construction and backfiring
Move dirt, chop brush, or fell small trees to build fireline using hand tools
Patrol fireline to location and extinguish sparks, flare-ups and hot spot fire
Perform other resource management activities as assigned
Recreation/trails duties
Chris Burley
Manager, National Initiatives
The Student Conservation Association, Inc.
Email: CBurley@thesca.org
