Calling the Next Generation of Conservation Stewards
Exciting opportunities are available with the U.S. Forest Service for the next generation of dynamic conservation stewards to get outdoors, gain paid work experience, explore careers, receive education and training, and launch internships to preserve our natural, cultural, and historical resources.
Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS)
The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) is the largest virtual internship program in the world! This year we will offer 1,500 positions with 50+ federal agencies. VSFS offers unique mentoring and exposure to job opportunities within the U.S. government.
Put your skills to work!
21st Century Conservation Service Corps
The 21st Century Conservation Service Corps puts thousands of young people, veterans and emerging professionals
to strengthen America’s infrastructure, boost local economies, and modernize the way government works. The 21CSC
initiative supports partner organizations and service, training, education and employment opportunities for young people
to learn and work on lands, waterways, and cultural heritage sites across the country. 21CSC includes Public Lands
Corps, a work and education program for young people and veterans.
Youth Conservation Corps
The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is an exciting summer youth employment program
that engages teenagers, ages 15 to 18, in meaningful work experiences on forest lands and
prairies, national parks, wildlife refuges, and fish hatcheries.
Resource Assistants Program
The Resource Assistants Program is a rigorous, immersive work and learning experience
for young people, ages 17 and up, interested in conservation and/or natural and cultural
resources, environmental management, research and development, and other career
opportunities with federal land and water management agencies.
Pathways
Pathways Programs provide paid employment opportunities with the Federal government for high school students,
undergraduates, post-graduates and recent graduates:
- Internship Program – Opportunities for students 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). - Recent Graduates Program - 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. - Presidential Management Fellows Program – For individuals who have completed an advanced degree
within the past two years.
Job Corps
Job Corps is a residential education and career training program for qualifying young people
ages 16 through 24. Job Corps members learn a marketable skill, may earn a high school
diploma or GED, make lifelong connections, and learn citizen stewardship values while
succeeding in today’s demanding workforce. Maximum age limits may be waived if an
applicant has a documented disability.
Related blogs:
USDA Offers Tribal Students Career-Track Scholarships in Agriculture
From Internship to Public Service Career: A HACU Success Story
Job Corps Student Overcomes Health Barriers to Realize Forestry Dream
First Employee Hired Under New Direct Hire Authority for Resource Assistants
Job Corps Centers Recognized for Excellence
Employment and Mentoring Opportunities Support Youth and Veteran Programs Across the U.S.