Sedge Island Volunteer
Sedge Island Summer College Program
at the Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center
Volunteer internship for college students
Spend an incredible summer in a one-of-a-kind salt marsh setting where you will share and expand your knowledge and enthusiasm about the environment. This volunteer-based internship offers college students the opportunity to gain resume building experience, develop public speaking skills, work both as an individual and team member, all while teaching and learning about New Jersey’s salt marsh environment through hands-on activities.
Position Duration: June-August 2026, with weekends in May, September, and October if available. Mandatory Training Weekend: May 22 arriving at 5:00 p.m. to May 24 departing at 12:00 p.m. Schedules will be developed before the training weekend and can accommodate if you have another job or family obligations.
General Description: The Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center conducts one-day and overnight hands-on environmental education programs for summer camps, environmental groups, educators, and the public. Groups learn about the natural and cultural history of Barnegat Bay and explore the marine environment through kayaking, seining, fishing, shellfish restoration, and getting muddy exploring the marsh. College students will share the staff room in the Sedge House and be required to stay overnight with groups as needed. Groups typically stay for three days, two nights. To view the facility, click here.
Job Duties: • Assist with and lead education groups, teaching adults and students about New Jersey’s marine natural resources in an outdoor classroom. • Lead activities including seining, clamming, fishing, kayaking, and salt marsh walks. • Stay overnight with groups as needed. • Maintain program equipment and assist in keeping the Sedge House organized. • Occasionally assist with on-going research projects, including northern diamondback terrapin and osprey.
Qualifications: • Must be rising Freshman, Sophomore or Junior year of college, working towards a degree in marine science, natural resource management, environmental studies, environmental education, education, or related field. • Must possess a valid driver’s license and personal vehicle. • Ability to communicate and work well with others and independently. • Comfortable working long, hot days outside, in the water, and with biting insects. • Passion for teaching students of all ages. • Experience in kayaking, fishing, crabbing, clamming, and birding, a plus but not required. • Must be 18 years or older. • Ability to lift 40 lbs.
Benefits: While this is an unpaid, volunteer internship, you will: • gain resume building experience in environmental education. • gain experience leading and teaching groups of all ages. • develop public speaking skills. • learn about New Jersey’s salt marsh flora and fauna. • interact with some of New Jersey’s biologists. • earn college credit, if applicable, to your school and degree program.
To Apply: Send your resume and cover letter to Karen Byrne at karen.byrne@dep.nj.gov. Deadline to apply February 13, 2026