Position Summary 

This internship will allow members to be exposed to a wide variety of recreational activities on the Sierra NF. Members will assist with developed recreation site inventories, Rec Residence site visits and inspections, campground inspections, and facility maintenance. Members will also share information about recreational opportunities with visitors both at VIS locations and while in the field; Members may be asked to help out with volunteer projects and special events in the OHV Department. Members may assist with inspections of Special Use Permit facilities such as resorts and campgrounds. Members may assist with compiling statistics on forest recreation and entering data into forest data bases.

Location 

Prather, CA

Schedule 

May 18, 2026 - October 30, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Primary duties include restroom maintenance at campgrounds and trailheads. This includes painting, cleaning, stocking supplies and garbage pick up
• There is potential for a great deal of public contact while performing these duties, so knowledge of the Forest and the rules and regulations for responsible use is expected
• Members will be expected to safely drive Forest Service vehicles on a daily basis

Marginal Duties 

• Work with the Recreation Residence Permit Administrator to assist with inspections
• Learn how to perform campground inspections
• Become familiar with the many types of Special Use Permitted activities on the Forest: Work with the Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) staff and volunteers on projects and events
• Assist with staffing of VIS locations as needed.

Required Qualifications 

• Must have their own vehicle to commute to their work area.
• Must have a current Driver's License and be able to safely drive full sized trucks on narrow mountain roads.
• Must have good public skills and a great attitude.
• Must be comfortable working outdoors and hiking on uneven terrain.
• Familiar with the use of various hand/mechanical tools (shovels, rakes, drills, saws, etc.)
• Able to communicate verbally and in writing

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications 

• A local candidate with their own housing in the immediate commute area.
• Knowledge of various types of recreation is helpful but not required.
• Must be willing to have a somewhat flexible schedule to participate in volunteer activities.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

If available, housing will be shared barracks on Forest Service lands. Barracks are alcohol and drug free at all times.

Compensation  

$450/week living allowance

$1,100 travel allowance

SCA Leased Housing (USFS barracks)

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

Bear Safety

Defensive Driver Training

First Aid/CPR

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

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.