Scientists in Parks Internship Program
Scientists in Parks is a National Park Program that places hundreds of college students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals across the National Park System to serve on natural resource management needs. Each opportunity with the SIP Program affords a distinct and memorable experience with projects that vary based on location, length, focus, and complexity. Past positions include mapping sand dunes at Fire Island National Seashore, surveying towering cacti at Saguaro National Park, and protecting nesting sea turtles at Padre Island National Seashore.
The SIP Program is best fit for aspiring professionals interested in science. Position requirements range from entry to advanced-level skillsets.
- Engage in conservation science projects at our national parks
- Translate your skills into long-term career growth
- Build relevant career experience by addressing current natural resource management needs of national parks
All applicants must:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. legal permanent resident
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be able to successfully complete and pass federal background check
- Must not have served 4 previous AmeriCorps terms
Direct Hire Authority (DHA) Applicants:
- Must be currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program
- Certificate programs are not qualifying degree programs
- Must subsequently graduate after the position term ends
- Positions must occur in the summer months for 11 weeks
Benefits
Hands-On Experience
Participants will serve in a national park (unless the position is remote) and will gain a deeper understanding of the park’s natural resources, management challenges, and priorities through supervision and mentorship from experienced NPS staff.
Professional Development
Enhance your skills and knowledge in various scientific disciplines by collaborating on projects like data collection and analysis, interpretation, field surveys, and more! Some positions offer professional development opportunities like conference attendance and presenting their SIP research in professional settings. Additionally, all participants are invited to attend monthly virtual training sessions.
Interdisciplinary Learning
The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing participants from different backgrounds and disciplines to collaborate on projects that address complex conservation and management challenges.
Contribution to Conservation
Make a meaningful impact by contributing directly to the research, management, and understanding of park conservation efforts to preserve the variety of life and natural landscapes of national parks.
Providing Meaningful Service
SIPs are also AmeriCorps Members and through this program they can learn and grow while giving back to the community. AmeriCorps Members receive numerous benefits including a living allowance, loan deferment, and upon successful completion of the position, a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award.
Other Benefits:
- Paid experience with relocation allowance, uniform stipend, and opportunities for professional development
- If available, on-site housing is provided at no cost. If on-site housing is not available, a housing stipend is included in weekly pay.
- Some positions are eligible for either the Public Lands Corps Hiring Authority or Direct Hire Authority – Resource Assistant
- Healthcare insurance (52-week positions only)
The next open application cycle will be in early December for summer 2027 positions.