What's your teenager doing this summer? Here's a great idea!

Need some help?

You can join an upcoming Zoom session to view a walk-through of the application process and get your questions answered.  

Session 2: April 12, 4-5 p.m. https://kingcounty.zoom.us/j/83592437835

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Are you a high school student interested in learning about the environment?

Do you want to earn money and have fun while learning, meeting new people, and challenging yourself?

Then look no further, this is the opportunity for YOU!

King County Parks Youth Conservation Corps (kcpyouthcorps.org) is offering 10 incredible paid student internship opportunities for high school students to gain hands-on experience in environmental leadership, restoration practices, and completing group and individual projects. This is a six-week program that runs from Monday, July 10 –Wednesday, August 16, 2023.

Who are we?
Be part of King County Parks! King County parks consists of more than 200 parks, 175 miles of regional trails, and 215 miles of backcountry trails. The Youth Conservation Corps began in 2021 with the mission to build pathways for a new generation of park and environmental leaders who represent the diversity of King County’s communities.   We believe in developing a more diverse environmental field, and this is one strategy to build a more just movement.   Learn more at kcpyouthcorps.org and kingcounty.gov/parks.
And check us out on the socials at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Flickr.

Who should apply?
We are looking for high school aged youth from King County interested in learning about parks and the environment to join the Youth Conservations Corps (YCC). No previous experience in conservation or environmental topics is required.  We welcome teens of all identities to apply; and the lived experiences, perspectives, and expertise of Black, Indigenous, and youth of color are especially essential to the success of this work.  People identifying as LGBTQ+ and people living with disabilities are also encouraged to apply.  

Job Duties

What will interns do?

• Learn about ecological restoration practices through hands-on outdoor work in parks.  
• Network with Parks staff, community leaders, and environmental professionals.
• Engage in discussions about the intersections of race and the environment.
• Participate in workshops about local environmental challenges.
• Explore solutions to problems impacting human and environmental health.
• Develop and build-upon career skills such as writing, public speaking, and interviewing.
• Complete creative independent and group projects.
• Present on a relevant topic of your choice to Parks staff and partners.

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

Required Qualifications:

• Must be at least 15 when programs begins and entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student in King County.
• Resides in King County.
• Has interest in learning about Parks and/or the environment.
• Able to attend entire 6-week internship program (July 10 –August 16, 2023).
• Open-minded, inclusive, and enjoys working on a team.
• Ability to work outdoors on uneven terrain with or without accommodation

The Successful Candidate Will Have the Following Competencies:‍

• Action Oriented: Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with high energy and enthusiasm.
• Ensures Accountability: Holds self accountable to meet commitments.
• Collaborates: Works collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Interpersonal Savvy: Relates openly with diverse groups of people.
• Self-Development: Actively seeks new ways to grow and be challenged.
• Demonstrates Self-Awareness: Uses a combination of feedback and reflection to gain insight into personal strengths and weaknesses.

Supplemental Information

Working Conditions:

• Work Location: Thurnau Park/TAF Bethaday Community Learning Space, 605 SW 108th St, Seattle, WA 98146.
• Transportation: Interns will be responsible for their own transportation to and from Thurnau Park each day. Orca cards can be provided upon request. Interns will travel together in a 15-person passenger van to various project sites and for weekly field trips.
• Work Schedule: Work hours are Monday – Thursday each week as follows:
• Monday: 9 am – 1 pm meet at Thurnau Park
• Tuesday: 9 am – 4 pm meet at Thurnau Park
• Wednesday: 9 am – 4 pm meet at Thurnau Park
• Thursday: 9 am – 1 pm meet virtually from personal computer
• Computers/Virtual Work: Interns must have access to a computer and internet for virtual sessions and independent work each Thursday.  If you do not have a computer or access to WIFI, program staff will work with you to find a solution for virtual work days.

Application and Selection Process: Application materials will be screened for clarity and completeness. A cover letter and resume are NOT REQUIRED for this application.  Please do not send and instead complete the required supplemental questions to convey why you are interested in the Youth Conservation Corps and what you hope to gain from this experience.  We require one reference from a non-related adult (e.g. coach, teacher, or mentor).  Please include their name and contact information in the application.  The most competitive candidates will be invited to participate in a panel interview.

• Applications due by April 16, 2023.
• All applicants can expect to hear if they were selected for an interview by Friday, April 28, 2023.
• Interview will be scheduled the week of May 8, 2023.
• References called/emailed for applicants that receive an interview

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