Individual Placement- Grounds And Natural Landscapes

The Student Conservation Association is offering an internship for Grounds and Natural Landscapes in Johnston, IA, from May 18 to August 28, 2026. Interns will assist USACE Park Rangers in maintaining recreation areas, performing groundskeeping, natural resource management, and operational support. Responsibilities include mowing, trash removal, and invasive species management. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license. Housing is not provided.
Position Summary

This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to assist USACE Park Rangers and volunteers in maintaining recreation areas of the Saylorville Lake Project located in Johnston, IA. Interns will be vital in ensuring our parks, campgrounds, and trails remain in excellent condition for the public. Key responsibilities will involve a variety of tasks including groundskeeping, natural resource management, and operational support. Interns are expected to begin work from 0730-1600 (Mon-Fri), first checking in with staff on daily projects and tasks. Intern’s will often be working in tandem with natural resource staff & volunteers and may on occasion be instructed to work independently depending on the work. Interns will engage in a wide array of work including but not limited to mowing, tree planting, painting, playground inspections, trash removal/collection, invasive species management and assisting with interpretive program/events.

Location

Johnston, IL

Schedule

May 18, 2026 – August 28, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The intern’s primary responsibility will be the upkeep and beautification of the park, involving groundskeeping duties such as mowing, string trimming, trash removal, painting and cleaning of facilities. This role also includes more technical landscape management, like assisting with prairie management, invasive species management, tree removal, chipping, and pruning with chainsaws and pole saws. While the core of the position is centered on this vital maintenance work, the intern will also gain a broad range of experience by supporting other operational needs.

Marginal Duties

Other duties may include assisting with recreational services like campground management, staffing fee booths and the interpretive visitor center, helping with volunteer programs, maintaining navigational buoys, and contributing to environmental objectives such as invasive species management and habitat improvement.

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old on start date.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Must complete defensive driving training provided by the government.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have the ability to effectively speak, read, and write in English.
• Must have the ability to work outdoors and lift up to 40 pounds.
• Must wear SCA provided attire while on duty.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience using Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) is preferred but not required. We are looking for self-motivated individuals who are eager to learn and are interested in a career in natural resource management field.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing is not provided.

Compensation

$560 – weekly Living Allowance

$75 – weekly Commuting Allowance

$800 – monthly Housing Allowance

$650 – Relocation Travel Grant (based on actual expense, capped at $650)

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits

Defensive Driving Training
Off-Road Vehicle Safety
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

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.