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OPS Division Environmental Education Intern - Bureau of State Parks, Central Office (College)

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania
$17.38 Hourly
dental insurance, vision insurance, parental leave, vacation time, paid time off, paid holidays, sick time, retirement plan
United States, Pennsylvania, Harrisburg
Jan 08, 2026

THE POSITION

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!


DESCRIPTION OF WORK

As an Environmental Intern with the Outdoor Programming Services (OPS) Division, you will gain valuable experience in environmental education and interpretation-related aspects of Pennsylvania State Park operations. You will have the opportunity to shadow and assist staff in various areas of bureau environmental education and interpretation programming such as lesson plan development, delivery of education programs, and educational program support. This includes assisting park staff and working alongside field educators while planning, researching, and developing educational lesson plans.

Within this role, you will become oriented to OPS rules and regulations, work rules and policies, emergency protocols, the Rachel Carson State Office Building's (RCSOB) safety program and procedures, the division's core principles, and the mission statements for the department and the bureau. Additional areas of focus will entail data collection and record keeping, media project development, and assisting OPS staff with facilitating a range of training opportunities for staff and educators. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills are essential, as you will be interfacing with other professionals and the public on a frequent basis.

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 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch. Hours and shifts will vary depending on assigned work and duties.
  • Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, on a schedule that aligns with the supervisor so they are in the office on the same days. No full time telework will be approved. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
  • 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.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS
Internship Requirements:

  • Enrollment in good academic standing as a FULL-TIME student in a two-year, bachelor's, or advanced degree program in:
    • Biology
    • Education
    • Environmental Science
    • Natural Resources
  • 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.


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