Individual Placement – CT State Parks Ambassador

The State Park Ambassador position at the Student Conservation Association in Hartford, CT, involves engaging the public and enhancing accessibility in Connecticut State Parks. Responsibilities include conducting trail assessments, supporting park programs, assisting with adaptive recreation equipment, and promoting environmental stewardship. The role requires outdoor work, strong communication skills, and a commitment to conservation. This is a physically active position scheduled from May 27 to August 3, 2025.
Position Summary

The State Park Ambassador position offers a unique opportunity for individuals to contribute to major public engagement, accessibility, and environmental stewardship efforts across Connecticut State Parks. Members will work directly with DEEP staff, community partners, and members of the public to improve outdoor access, support programming, and promote responsible park use. This is a public-facing, physically active role that provides meaningful training and career exposure in public lands management, conservation, and environmental education.

Location

Hartford, CT

Schedule

May 27, 2025 – August 3, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct trail assessments and assist with clearing, surfacing, and removing obstacles to improve accessibility at priority park sites.
• Support the implementation of trail projects funded through the Bronco Wild Fund, including hands-on labor and coordination with DEEP staff.
• Assist with the setup, maintenance, and user support of all-terrain wheelchairs at Wadsworth Falls and Stratton Brook State Parks.
• Provide visitor orientation and assist park users in safely and effectively using adaptive recreation equipment.
• Participate in routine trail monitoring and record conditions to help track accessibility goals and maintenance needs.
• Assist with outreach and engagement for the ParkConneCT program, including event logistics, registration support, and direct visitor communication.
• Support No Child Left Inside® (NCLI) events by helping with site setup, participant engagement, wayfinding, and event breakdown.
• Help develop or distribute materials related to outdoor accessibility, program visibility, and community partnerships.
• Engage with park visitors, families, and youth in a professional manner, representing DEEP’s mission to expand outdoor access for all.
• Operate hand tools such as rakes, shovels, hand saws, and other trail equipment under staff supervision.
• Collaborate with DEEP staff and SCA mentors to advance conservation goals and ensure smooth program delivery.

Marginal Duties

• Assist in preparing public-facing outreach and event materials.
• Help collect feedback or data on visitor engagement and trail usage.
• Participate in basic park beautification and volunteer support.
• Contribute to digital content, photos, or program stories.

Required Qualifications

• Interest in environmental access, stewardship, or conservation careers.
• Ability to work outdoors in various conditions and terrain.
• Strong communication skills and a willingness to engage the public.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfort using hand tools and walking several miles on trails.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in outdoor or public service settings.
• Bilingual or multilingual (Spanish, ASL, etc.).
• Familiarity with Connecticut parks, youth programs, or accessibility tools.
• Experience with trail maintenance, visitor engagement, or event logistics.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing is not provided for this position.

Compensation

Living Allowance – $650/week;
Commuting Allowance – $40/week;
AmeriCorps Education Award – valued at $1,565 and based upon successful completion of the position.

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits

Defensive Drive Training
AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional

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.