Job Summary
Under the supervision of the Community Program Director at Parkway, the Dos Rios State Park Intern will work alongside California State Parks staff at Dos Rios State Park to support projects in environmental science, cultural resources, public safety, visitor services, interpretation, and park operations.
This 15-week internship offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed to build skills in park stewardship, ecological restoration, public engagement, and technical services. Interns will rotate through various departments and park program areas, gaining a comprehensive understanding of career pathways in California State Parks. Through this internship, interns will be contributing to mission-driven, safe, and meaningful projects on the San Joaquin and Tuolumne River Parkways.
Most of the work will take place outdoors in the field and park environments.
Time Commitment
Internship duties will average 12-16 hours per week, depending on availability (approximately 6–8 hours/day,1-2 days per week) Friday attendance at Dos Rios is required; duration for this position is 15 weeks. Some weekend or evening hours may be required for special events.
Learning Opportunities and Responsibilities May Include
Natural & Cultural Resources (Weeks 1–3)
● Shadow environmental scientists on research/ data collection and field work.
● Assist with vegetation management, including sensitive plant surveys and invasive species removal.
● Participate in restoration site surveys, GPS mapping, and photo documentation.
● Learn California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) processes and Native American Tribal consultation procedures.
● Review park planning and operational documents.
● Attend a Resource Collaboration meeting between DPR and River Partners.
Public Safety & Visitor Services (Weeks 4–6)
● Explore public safety operations through hands-on experiences, including a ride-along with a State Park Peace Officer.
● Provide visitors with information about park rules, permits, and resources.
● Support lifeguards during public safety presentations. Welcome and orient park visitors alongside park aides.
Interpretation & Education (Weeks 7–9)
● Learn program preparation, marketing, and interpretive best practices.
● Assist with interpretive programs, Junior Ranger activities, nature walks, and educational events.
● Learn volunteer management and deliver at least one interpretive program.
Facilities & Grounds Maintenance (Weeks 10–12)
● Assist with facility restoration, housekeeping, and groundskeeping.
● Operate small equipment and tools following safety procedures.
● Support maintenance staff with ongoing maintenance programs.
Certifications & Skills Development (Weeks 13–15)
● Opportunities may include Certified Interpretive Guide, Wilderness First Aid, Cal OSHA training, FEMA ICS, chainsaw certification, herbicide/pesticide certification, and Leave No Trace Instructor Certification.
General Duties Throughout Internship
● Participate in training, shadowing opportunities, and daily collaboration with State Parks staff and Parkway Trust team members.
● Assist in maintaining program equipment, tools, and supplies.
● Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to uphold the values and mission of the San Joaquin River Parkway & Conservation Trust.
● Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
● High School Diploma or equivalent; some college coursework in environmental sciences, parks/recreation, or related fields preferred.
● Interest in parks, environmental conservation, and public engagement.
● Bilingual Spanish or Hmong preferred.
● Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and on uneven terrain. `
● Valid driver’s license and transportation, or reliable means to travel to the park.
● Ability to work Fridays and Saturdays.
● Must be able to lift 40 lbs.
Pay: $19.99 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
