The Forest Service has many opportunities for young people to work with us while learning about natural and cultural resources careers. Here are some ways you can get involved:
Students and Recent Grads
YCC crewmembers in Kootznoowoo Wilderness, Alaska. Photo credit: U.S. Forest Service
Pathways Programs provide paid employment opportunities with the Federal government for high school students, undergraduates, post-graduates and recent graduates:
- Pathways Internship Program - Designed to provide students with opportunities to explore Federal careers while still in school, students may be hired on a temporary basis for up to one year (NTE Intern) or for an indefinite period (Indefinite Intern).
- Pathways Recent Graduate Program - Is available to individuals who have completed qualifying degree or certificate programs within the previous two years. Qualified veterans may have an extended application period due to military service.
- Pathways Presidential Management Fellows Program – This program is for individuals who have completed an advanced degree within the past two years.
For more information, read the FAQs, read the Forest Service Pathways Programs brochure, and search for current Pathways jobs with the Forest Service on USAJOBS.gov.
Eligibility Requirements
Pathways Intern candidates will meet the qualification requirements consistent with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) qualification standards applicable to the position being filled. In addition, the following eligibility requirements apply:
- Currently has and maintains at least an overall 2.9 GPA.
- Is a United States citizen.
Additional information can be found on the OPM Hiring Information - Students and Recent Graduates website.
21st Century Conservation Service Corps
21st Century Conservation Service Corps is a bold national effort to put thousands of America’s young people and veterans to work protecting, restoring, and enhancing America’s great outdoors. For a complete list of partners providing opportunities in this endeavor, visit 21csc.org. Also, see programs below supporting this initiative.
Youth Conservation Corps
Members of the YCC crew in Angoon Alaska hard at work. Photo credit: U.S. Forest Service
You can find paid summer work experience on many national forests and grasslands through our Youth Conservation Corps. U.S. citizens or legal residents ages 15 to 18 are encouraged to apply to be considered for an opportunity to:
- Work outdoors with other young people on crews
- Learn about conservation stewardship
- Get training in restoration skills necessary for field work
- Develop work ethic and interpersonal communication skills
Apply for featured positions here.
To learn more about Youth Conservation Corps projects, contact the Forests and Grasslands.
The Resource Assistants Program is geared towards current students and recent graduates who want to learn more about Forest Service careers while contributing to the agency’s mission. The program provides a rigorous and immersive paid work and learning experience on Forest Service units with partner organizations designed to prepare the next generation for careers as public lands stewards.
Resource Assistants Program
Learn a career, earn a diploma
Job Corps is a free education and training program that helps low-income young people 16 or older learn a career, earn a high school diploma or GED, and find and keep a good job.
- Learn life-changing skills
- Live and learn in beautiful surroundings
- Learn trade or conservation-related skills
Related blogs:
Youth Conservation Corps Programs Make a Difference
Employment and Mentoring Opportunities Support Youth and Veteran Programs Across the U.S.