ACE - Conservation Internship

Location(s): Flagstaff, Arizona, St. George, Utah, or Santa Cruz, California including travel to various project locations throughout the internship.  Conservation interns will be given accommodation at one of ACE’s houses in Flagstaff, St. George, or Santa Cruz where they will return for their off days when not working in the field.

Overview: American Conservation Experience (ACE) is a non-profit conservation corps offering unpaid, team-based internships for both American and International youth (18+) to take part in challenging outdoor projects in many of the most beautiful National Parks, National Forests and Wilderness areas in the Western United States. ACE also offers paid internships for individual placement positions based out of Salt Lake City, Utah.

ACE is dedicated to providing professional development and service learning opportunities for emerging land managers, environmental stewards, and conservation-minded corps members in culturally diverse and naturally inspiring settings. ACE members embody an ethic of environmental stewardship, learn practical conservation skills, and explore career options while accomplishing vital conservation projects in many of America’s most spectacular open spaces.

ACE conservation interns participate in small teams on direct service projects for the National Forest Service, National Park Service and other land management agencies throughout the American West. Typical projects include sustainable trail construction and maintenance, non-native species removal, fence construction, erosion control, and wilderness restoration. Conservation interns contribute their positive energy and enthusiasm to a production-oriented atmosphere in which participants are encouraged to take pride in their team's accomplishments.

Position Description: Conservation interns typically work and camp for up to 8 days at a time, getting their hands dirty with conservation projects in the most beautiful locations in the American West.

            Essential Functions:

• Following verbal and written instructions from all ACE, USFS, and other agency staff.
• Understanding and respecting all wilderness regulations and policies.
• Following strict safety guidelines, including the responsible use of personal protective gear, and insuring that all tools, equipment, vehicles and other co-workers are working safely in all conditions.
• Working as a part of a team while maintaining a professional demeanor and good communication.
• Desire and ability to work outdoors and hike long distances, at times in inclement weather and terrain. Willingness to perform frequent and continuous physical activity such as bending, lifting, and carrying heavy weights.
• Willing and able to spend up to six consecutive weeks in the backcountry.
• Ability to work hard with a positive mental attitude.
• Capacity to take care of oneself during challenging work days by monitoring personal hydration, energy levels, and safety procedures.

            Remuneration/Benefits:

• Free housing in Flagstaff, St. George, or Santa Cruz during off-days
• Free food and individual tents during project days
• Free transportation to and from project locations
• Opportunity to obtain a paid individual internship within our Salt Lake City Internship program
• Opportunity to progress within the organization and obtain a paid position
• Practical, hands-on experience that will enhance resume/leadership building
• Networking opportunities with projects partners (USFS, NPS, etc..)
• Leadership and guidance from ACE staff
• Job skills training, career development, and service learning opportunities
• Unique experience that leaves plenty of time for members to explore the American West with fellow outdoor enthusiasts from a wide range of backgrounds

            Qualifications:

• Proof of health insurance and US citizenship
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and an interest/background in conservation
• A 12 week minimum commitment is required.

Dates of Employment: ACE has flexible start dates with a 12 week commitment.

How to Apply:

1. Visit www.usaconservation.org
2. Complete our online registration form at www.usaconservation.org/Registration/american_register.html
3. Submit a motivational statement stating your goals, background, and reasons for wanting to participate in our program.

Contact information: