Conservation Education Intern

Austin Community College; New York (NY); On-site; USD 22,677 - 28,282; Full time

Job summary

A regional environmental organization seeks an Environmental Education Intern in East Bethany, NY. The role involves planning and leading educational programs about natural resources, working with volunteers, and conducting outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. Interns are expected to commit 35 hours per week and receive a weekly living allowance of $560. Candidates should have experience working with the public and a background in environmental science or related subjects.

Qualifications

• Experience working or volunteering with public, youth, or in a team.
• Desire to learn about environmental education and public speaking.
• Self-motivated to complete tasks and learn new skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and leading environmental education programs.
• Work on special events and create displays for public engagement.
• Coordinate with volunteers and facilitate park programs.

Skills

Public speaking

Teamwork

Environmental education

Teaching skills

Education

Educational study in Environmental Science, Conservation, or related fields

Job description

Overview

The mission of the Environmental Education Program at Genesee County Parks (NY) is to promote and facilitate programs that showcase the unique natural resources and environmental management practices of the Genesee County Department of Parks, Recreation & Forestry, and to educate the public about the natural resources of the Genesee County Region in order to reconnect them to the environment so that they may become better stewards of it. The Environmental Education Intern plays a key role in the success of this mission.

Location

East Bethany, NY

Schedule

June 1, 2026 - August 22, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Environmental Education Intern is primarily responsible for assisting with the planning, developing, organizing, scheduling, preparing, and leading of environmental education and outdoor recreation programs for students, scouts, seniors, and members of the general public under the direction and supervision of the Conservation Education Program Coordinator. The Intern introduces new information and expands the knowledge of audience members of all ages, so that they may be better stewards of their environment and natural resources. The Intern will use a wide variety of interpretive methods to establish and deepen the relationship of natural resources awareness to personal appreciation and meaning in peoples’ lives. The Intern will also work on special events, create displays, and write articles and publications that assist the Conservation Education Program Coordinator in this endeavor. In addition, the Environmental Education Intern works closely with active park volunteers to coordinate and facilitate their participation and efforts in supporting park programs, special events, visitor services, and park facility development. The intern will also assist with volunteer outings and excursions including kayaking and hiking trips. Intern will serve 35 hours per week. Housing is not provided for this position; the intern must currently live (or have secured housing) within a daily commuting distance of the County’s Interpretive Nature Center in East Bethany, NY.

Marginal Duties

• Intern will serve as the lead counselor for Environmental Science Summer Camp, a day-camp for youth in grades 7–10 that engages campers in outdoor learning, conservation career exploration, and fun at the Genesee County Parks.
• Intern will assist with a riparian restoration project along Black Cree that will include leading students in water quality assessment activities (macroinvertebrate surveys, water chemistry, and more!).

Required Qualifications

• Experience working or volunteering with members of the public, youth, or as a part of a team.
• Desire to learn about environmental education and Interpretive Nature Center operations and practice public speaking skills.
• Self-motivated to complete assigned tasks, learn new skills, and participate in activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Educational study in related topics including Environmental Science, Conservation, Forestry, Natural History, Biology, or Education.
• Experience in assisting with, developing or leading conservation education programs or closely related programs.
• Experience participating in or leading outdoor recreation activities including hiking, kayaking, and/or fishing.

Compensation

• $560 - weekly living allowance

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.