State Park Intern

THE POSITION

Are you an energetic and enthusiastic student who is motivated to conserve Pennsylvania's cultural and historical 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 programming while assisting visitors in enjoying the unique history 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 intern in this role, you will acquire valuable experience in various aspects of facility operations, resource management, and information services.  You will have the opportunity to collaborate with staff at the Jennings Environmental Education Center and assist with a range of initiatives designed to enhance visitor engagement and stewardship of park historical resources.  

Specific duties involve learning how to assist with archiving and collections management and historical research and programming development for the Old Stone House (reconstructed early 19th century stage coach tavern/inn), Foltz School (late 19th century restored original one room schoolhouse), Brydon Mine (ruins of mid 20th century abandoned coal mine), and other historical and cultural resources and research.  Additional assignments may entail processing collections (artifacts, documents, photographs, digital media); arranging and describing collections; digitizing, preservation, and conservation efforts; researching sources; assisting with program and exhibit development; and engaging with the public to deliver exceptional customer service.

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.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS
Internship Requirements:

• Enrollment in good academic standing as a FULL-TIME student in a bachelor's or advanced degree program in:
  • History
  • Master of Library and Information Science
  • Archival Studies
• 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.