Varies

Job Title: Scientists in Parks, over 100 positions available 

Organization: National Park Service

Location: Varies: Acadia National Park, Arches National Park, Fire Island National Seashore, Glacier National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, and more.

Every year, the Scientists in Parks work experience program places hundreds of aspiring professionals across the National Park System to work on natural resource management needs. Past projects have mapped sand dunes at Fire Island National Seashore, surveyed towering cacti at Saguaro National Park, and protected nesting sea turtles at Padre Island National Seashore. Others assessed pika populations at Rocky Mountain National Park, measured soils beneath the mangrove forests of Everglades National Park, and restored colorful corals beneath the waves at the National Park of American Samoa.

The program is committed to providing all aspiring professionals—especially those underrepresented in science—with a unique opportunity to work on important real-world projects while building professional experience and a life-long connection to America’s national parks.

Position Descriptions: The Scientists in Parks work experience program supports the management of natural resources by funding interdisciplinary projects in the biological sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, communications & education.

Projects address a wide array of topics, including—but not limited to—air quality, climate change, geology, hydrology, night skies, paleontology, and soundscapes. Some projects may also address resources or topics not traditionally aligned with natural resources management, including—but not limited to—archaeological resources, economics, ethnographic resources, facilities, historic structures, museum collections, and visitor services.

Scientists in Parks projects vary widely in location, length, focus and complexity, affording opportunities for individuals with equally diverse levels of education, experience, and skill. Aspiring professionals are encouraged to review all current opportunities to find relevant projects of interest.

Benefits: All Scientists in Parks participants receive a stipend $400-$640 per week, and free housing (or a housing stipend) for the duration of the project. In addition, successful participants are granted special hiring authorities that provide a potential pathway into federal employment.