Individual Placement- Natural Resource & Recreation Management (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

Location:New Bethlehem, PA
Program Dates: May 11, 2026 - August 28, 2026
Schedule: 40 hours/week (weekends and federal holidays off)
Compensation: $350/week living allowance + Housing Allowance: $800/month (pre-tax)

Candidates local to the Pittsburgh area are encouraged to apply!

Position Summary 

Mahoning Creek Lake, located in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, is a 279-acre reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Pittsburgh District. Constructed in 1941, its primary goal is flood control for the lower Allegheny River Valley and upper Ohio River.

Additionally, the dam was retrofitted in 2012 for hydroelectric power generation, producing 6 MW of renewable power, and the lake provides varied recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. Interns may assist in maintaining the dam, managing the surrounding 2,900 acres of federal lands, patrolling boundary lines, and performing repairs. They also conduct environmental stewardship activities and partner with state agencies for wildlife management and debris cleanup.

Additional Benefits 

• Defensive Driving Training
• Interpretive Skills
• Off-Road Vehicle Safety
• AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Implement the Corps Water Safety Program.

• Protect and preserve natural resources.
• Provide interpretive assistance through direct and indirect contacts, both on and off-site.
• Update bulletin boards and create interpretive displays.
• Stock and distribute informative materials.
• Staff information centers during high visitation periods.
• Give interpretive talks and lead interpretive programs.
• Interact with visitors daily, aiding and updating them on lake and weather conditions.
• Conduct trail maintenance, and boundary surveys.
• Support special events.
• Perform light maintenance, painting, and repair tasks in recreation areas.
• Share the story and mission of the Corps with the public.
• Assist with boat patrols

Marginal Duties 

Required Qualifications 

• Must be 18 years of age;
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license;
• Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent;
• Must have the ability to effectively speak, read, and write in English;
• Must have the ability to work outdoors and lift up to 40 pounds

Preferred Qualifications 

• Public service experience;
• Natural resource management experience.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

No housing provided.

Compensation  

• Living Allowance: $350/week
• Housing Allowance: $800/month (4 payments)
• Commuting Allowance: $75/week
• up to $650 in reimbursable expenses for relocation

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

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.