Park Ranger Mounted Unit Intern (Unpaid Internship)

Who We Are: 
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Who We Are as an Employer:

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreation facilities we care for – strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs please visit www.mass.gov/dcr or contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov

Job Opening:

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks applicants for Park Ranger Mounted Unit Intern (Unpaid Internship). Dates 6-1-26 to 8-19-26.  In person location - 705 Hillside Street, Milton, MA

This internship is unpaid and designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field.  Candidates may be eligible to earn academic credit through their college or university.

DUTIES:

Rangers, Stable Aides and their horses are looking for qualified intern(s) to join the team who are interested in learning the many aspects of the equine, environmental, and enforcement aspects of a mounted park patrol unit. The intern(s) who fills the position(s) should expect to learn the inner workings (“behind the scenes”) of what is involved to prepare a mounted park ranger to perform his/her duties out in a public park setting on patrol, during a program, at a special event, a ceremonial function, as well as partnering with other agencies under mutual aid

Stable Aide duties including mucking, bedding, grooming, clipping, sheath cleaning, picking paddocks, and tack cleaning. Assist with park special events, programs and stable tours. Perform administrative tasks including data entry.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Equestrian Requirements: Walk, trot, canter, and lateral movements ringwork, lungeing and round penning, along with natural horsemanship and trail riding exercises. Level 2 Dressage or better required. Ability to mount from the ground a preferred. Note: Dressage Saddle and Bridles used. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Tools (excel, Word, power point, publisher, etc.) and Acrobat Pro.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Please see Preferred Qualifications.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100%25 of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.