Park Naturalist Interns officially work as Park & Recreation Aides—full-time, seasonal positions with New York State Parks.

Duration: Beginning in May – 40 hours/week – 600 hours total

Hourly salary: $15.50/hr

Qualifications: 

• Coursework in environmental science, fish and wildlife, animal science or related field.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• A valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to commute to the park each day (housing is not provided for this internship).
• Willingness to work as part of a team.
• Ability to work weekends.

Position Description:

• PARK OPERATIONS – 60% of duties. Assist in all phases of park operations, assisting park visitors, safety and security, trail work and park improvement projects. 
• PROGRAMMING – 20% of duties. Assist in the planning, promotion, and execution of park programs and events such as guided hikes and roving interpretive programs.
• RESEARCH and PARK IMPROVEMENT - 20% of duties. Develop and implement a personal interest research or park improvement project on a subject of your choosing.