Contracted Student Interns - Park Interpretation and Education (UNPAID)

Position Information:

Contracted Student Internship:  Park Interpretation and Education Intern

Start/End Date: 2/1/2027 - 4/18/2027

Salary Rate:  $0.00 (UNPAID Internship)

Weekly Hours:  10 hours

Number of Openings:  1 position

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 most 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 recreational 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 a Park Interpretation and Education Intern - (Unpaid Contracted Student Interns) for 2027 Winter Semester to perform the following duties:

Please submit a cover letter and resume as part of the application process.

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

General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities:

This internship gives an undergraduate student experience exploring how Mount Holyoke Range State Park welcomes visitors, shares its stories, and helps people connect with the resources of the range. Working with the Visitor Services Supervisor at the Notch Visitor Center, the intern will choose one project involving interpretation, visitor information, program marketing, or community outreach. Possible projects include developing exhibit concepts, improving welcome materials, or exploring ways to share park programs with families, students, and community groups. Through staff shadowing, research, writing, design, and feedback, the student will learn to communicate with different audiences and connect their coursework with a park setting. This unpaid learning opportunity will not replace an interpretive position or provide staffing coverage.

Detailed Duties and Responsibilities:

This internship gives an undergraduate student experience exploring how Mount Holyoke Range State Park welcomes visitors, shares its stories, and helps people connect with the resources of the range. Working with the Visitor Services Supervisor at the Notch Visitor Center, the intern will choose one project involving interpretation, visitor information, program marketing, or community outreach. Possible projects include developing exhibit concepts, improving welcome materials, or exploring ways to share park programs with families, students, and community groups. Through staff shadowing, research, writing, design, and feedback, the student will learn to communicate with different audiences and connect their coursework with a park setting. This unpaid learning opportunity will not replace an interpretive position or provide staffing coverage.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Undergraduate student studying Natural Resources Conservation, Environmental Science, environmental education, communications, marketing, or a related field. 

• Interest in conservation, state parks, and helping people discover outdoor learning and recreation opportunities. 

• Basic writing and research skills and a willingness to explain ideas in clear, engaging ways. 

• Curiosity about and willingness to engage with different audiences, including families, college students, first-time visitors, and community groups. 

• Ability to stay organized, ask for guidance, and follow an agreed schedule. 

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Canva, or similar tools is helpful. 

• Previous design or outreach experience is not required.

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.