Individual Placement- Natural Resource Management at Houston Parks and Recreation

Position Summary 

The Natural Resources Division manages natural resources under the purview of the Houston Parks and Recreation Department. Our work consists of Forest management, prairie management and restoration, riparian management and creation, plant propagation, community volunteer plantings, and other various tasks.

Hosting Organization

City of Houston Parks and Rec Dept.

Location 

Houston, TX

Schedule 

October 5, 2026 - March 19, 2027

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Location: Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Division: Greenspace Management

GENERAL SUMMARY:
The intern will assist Division staff with a variety of tasks that help manage natural resources under the Department. Work involves conservation, management, protection, preservation, and community outreach activities.


RESPONSIBILITIES:
Interns will assist Natural Resources Management Program staff with tasks that help manage natural resources under the Department. Work involves conservation, management, protection, preservation, and community outreach activities. Responsibilities include:

• Conducting habitat restoration within City of Houston parks.
• Working in the HPARD greenhouse to propagate plants for habitat restoration projects.
• Conducting invasive species removal using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Participates in community outreach events.
• Maintains, calibrates, and operates technical equipment.
• Participates in online and hands-on training.
• Performs related work as assigned in a field team setting.


KNOWLEDGE & TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES:
This internship opportunity will provide:
• Experience in environmental quality, natural resources, and botany.
• Training in native plant propagation and habitat restoration techniques.
• Hands-on training on chemical and mechanical removal methods.
• Safety practices and techniques for habitat restoration field work and the operation of city parks.
• Skills in the operation and maintenance of environmental equipment and in using computers and applicable software.
• Experience in conducting site inspections, preparing reports, and communicating effectively.

Marginal Duties 

• Assisting in technical data collection, research, analysis, evaluations, inspections, or surveys.
• Assists in field studies and in making technical evaluations.

Required Qualifications 

No prior experience needed.  

Preferred Qualifications 

Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in environmental science, Biology, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.

Local candidates are preferred.

General Physical Requirements

Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies. 

Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program. 

Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, and appropriate footwear. Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others. 

Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time. 

Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others. 

Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions. 

Able to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration throughout program time.

• If using prescription medications, able to self-administer medications by following the prescribed dosage, usage, and timing without supervisor assistance. If prescription medication is administered via injection, able to self-administer the injection.

Working Conditions

Work schedules and project assignments may change on short notice and may involve evolving priorities. The position requires the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Work is performed primarily in outdoor natural environments and regionally significant locations, requiring respect for the land, natural resources, and local communities. Duties may be performed in a variety of weather conditions, including heavy rain, flash flooding, high winds, fog, reduced visibility, lightning, and poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke or smog. The position may also require working in extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 110°F or higher, as well as cold weather conditions with temperatures as low as -20°F, accompanied by wind, snow, and sleet. Outdoor work may involve exposure to natural hazards, including poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, disease-carrying ticks and mosquitoes, insects, snakes, bears, and other wildlife.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Members are responsible for their own living accommodations.

Compensation  

$850/week living allowance

$2,000 duty-related reimburseable expenses

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

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.