Sierra National Forest Wilderness Ranger Intern

Position Summary 

Wilderness Ranger Participants are integral members of the Wilderness team, learning and practicing necessary skills under the guidance of experienced Wilderness Rangers. Participants become proficient in Leave No Trace principles and help communicate those ethics, along with forest rules and regulations, to educate forest visitors. They work as members of a trail crew, using traditional forestry tools, trail maintenance theory and techniques to maintain trails. Participants also help inventory and rehabilitate campsites, pick up trash, install and maintain signage, collect data, and produce trail reports. Every summer Wilderness Rangers contribute to the conservation of wilderness resources and help facilitate recreational use on the Sierra National Forest.

Location 

Prather, CA OR North Fork, CA

Schedule 

June 1, 2026 - September 4, 2026 (14 weeks)

(12-week option may be available as well - please inquire during interview) 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Offer an interpretative service to Forest Visitors regarding rules, regulations and best practices
• Trail Maintenance, including, but not limited to: using a crosscut saw as part of a team to clear down trees from trail corridors, building and maintaining erosion control features, cutting back overgrown brush, moving rocks, debris, and repairing tread
• Rehabilitation of campsites and popular use areas.

Marginal Duties 

• Successful completion of required training as needed
• Performing inventories, collecting data and producing trail reports
• Installation and maintenance of signage

Required Qualifications 

• No prior experience or education is required.
• It is a physically strenuous position: the ability to backpack, self-supported with tools, and work in steep terrain at high elevation for up to 8 days at a time is required.
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively with both coworkers and members of the public.
• Vehicle needed to get between the office and housing. All travel to work sites will be in a government vehicle.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Hiking, backpacking or other wilderness travel experience.
• Basic computer and office skills.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Government housing is provided for non-local candidates

Compensation  

• Living allowance - $450/week
• Round Trip Travel Allowance- $1,100
• USFS Housing Provided on site

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

Bear Safety

First Aid/CPR

Interpretive Skills

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.