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Paid Conservation Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of New York

Conservation Crew Coordinator

Bronx, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

ONLY OPEN TO CURRENT FULL-TIME ANNUALLY PAID PARKS EMPLOYEES* NYC Parks is a design award-winning ... apprentices and interns. Track staff time and activities, interview applicants and develop ...

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How much do paid conservation internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for paid conservation internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or tasks I might work on during a Paid Conservation Internship?

As a paid conservation intern, you may participate in a variety of hands-on and research-based projects such as habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, invasive species removal, and public education initiatives. Your daily responsibilities could include fieldwork like planting native species, collecting environmental data, and assisting with ecological surveys, as well as supporting conservation staff with data entry and reporting. Interns often collaborate closely with biologists, park rangers, and volunteers, gaining practical experience and valuable networking opportunities in the conservation field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Paid Conservation Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paid Conservation Intern, you typically need a background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, along with a genuine passion for conservation work. Familiarity with data collection tools, GIS software, and basic field equipment is often required, and certifications like First Aid/CPR may be beneficial. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability help interns collaborate effectively and handle varying field conditions. These skills ensure that interns can safely and efficiently contribute to conservation projects while gaining valuable hands-on experience.

What is the difference between Paid Conservation Internship vs Conservation Technician?

AspectPaid Conservation InternshipConservation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or college coursework in environmental science or related fieldsOften requires a degree or relevant certifications in environmental science, biology, or related areas
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research projects, and educational activities, often seasonal or temporaryFieldwork, site management, and hands-on conservation tasks, usually full-time
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by NGOs, government agencies, and conservation programs for entry-level roles and internshipsEmployed by conservation organizations, parks, and agencies for ongoing field support roles

While both roles involve outdoor conservation work, Paid Conservation Internships are typically short-term, educational opportunities for students or early-career individuals, whereas Conservation Technicians are more permanent or long-term roles requiring relevant skills and experience.

What is a paid conservation internship?

A paid conservation internship is a temporary position that offers hands-on experience working in conservation, environmental protection, or natural resource management, while providing a stipend or hourly wage. Interns may assist with fieldwork, research, education, or outreach projects under the supervision of professional conservationists. These internships are designed to help students or recent graduates gain practical skills, build professional networks, and explore careers in conservation. Compensation varies by organization, location, and the nature of the work involved. Many internships are offered by non-profits, government agencies, or research institutions.
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What cities are hiring for Paid Conservation Internship jobs? Cities with the most Paid Conservation Internship job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Paid Conservation Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Paid Conservation Internship jobs are:
Paid Conservation Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paid Conservation Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 90% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Urban Green - Philadelphia Youth Conservation Crew Member

Urban Green - Philadelphia Youth Conservation Crew Member

Student Conservation Association

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$11/hr

Temporary

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Since 1957, program participants have protected and restored national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.
SCA's Urban Green Philadelphia Youth Conservation Crew is based at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum. The Summer 2026 Youth Conservation Crew will be led by 2 Field Leaders, ages 21+, and consist of 10 youth Crew Members, ages 15 to 18. The Crew will meet in a central location in Philadelphia each workday and transportation will be provided to project sites. This program is an entry-level position with the goal of connecting young people with nature.
The Crew will work 6 weeks in the Summer, July through August. Crew Members will work Mondays to Fridays at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and in various sites throughout Southwest Philadelphia. The program is 50-75% conservation field work, such as improving trails and gardens, managing invasive species, and planting native plants and trees, and 25-50% environmental education, leadership development, environmental recreation, and workforce readiness.
For the second week of the Summer, July 13-17, the Crew will be tent-camping overnight for 5 days, 4 nights (Monday, July 13th to Thursday, July 16th) in the Poconos as part of the Delaware River Watershed Stewardship Internship Program "Watchers on the Water" offered through the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC). As part of this program, Crew Members will be kayaking or canoeing, camping, and conducting water quality testing, under the supervision of 2 PEEC staff and 3-4 SCA staff. All SCA staff are Wilderness First Responder certified and PEEC staff are CPR, AED, and First Aid trained, trained in the program, receive re-training annually, and follow strict river and water safety protocol. Food, camping supplies, and personal protective equipment will all be provided free of charge and personal protective equipment (including floating devices) are required to be worn.
Location
Philadelphia, PA and Poconos, PA
Schedule
July 6, 2026 - August 14, 2026
Note that July 13-17th is overnight in the Poconos
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Attend Week 2, the Delaware River Watershed Internship Program, in the Poconos (a 5-day, 4-night) tent-camping and canoeing/kayaking experiential education and training component of the program.
Abide by all risk and safety protocols, including wearing proper uniform, boots, gloves, eyewear, and hard hats for required work projects, and PFDs (personal floating devices) during any water-based activity.
Communicate and collaborate with Crew Leaders and Crew Members.
Actively participate in conservation service tasks as assigned.
Use hand tools and work outside to complete conservation service projects.
Arrive at work prepared for the workday, be able to attend all programming, and communicate any absences (unplanned or planned) in advance.
Marginal Duties
  • Engage and contribute to environmental education and job readiness lessons and activities.
  • Speak and engage with the public at community events.

Required Qualifications
  • Current high school student between the ages of 15 - 18.
  • Participants need no prior experience but do need to have a desire to work outside in all weather conditions, and willingness to engage in team-building activities.
  • Must have the ability to legally work in the US.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong preference for local candidates, especially Southwest Philadelphia.

Hours
33 per week
Mondays to Thursdays 9am-4pm
Fridays 9am-2pm
Living Accommodations
Not provided, except for during the Delaware River Watershed Internship Program, where tents, food, and gear will be provided.
Compensation
  • Hourly position paying $11/hour, about 33 hours a week.
  • Member is paid bi-weekly.

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
No personal vehicle required.
Additional Benefits
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.

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