Big Bend Lake Sharpe Water Safety Intern

Position Summary 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is the leading Federal provider of outdoor recreation and attracts over 335 million visitors annually at 403 water resources development projects operated in 43 states. Visitor safety as well as stewardship of the natural resources are several of the primary missions in the management of these projects. Interns will assist park rangers with water safety outreach and visitor related duties.

Location 

Fort Thompson, SD - Lake Sharpe

Schedule 

May 11, 2026 - August 28, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

The intern supports daily campground and recreation area operations with an emphasis on facility and grounds maintenance, cleanliness, and visitor assistance and support. Primary duties include operation of Recreation One Stop system, visitor assistance duties, inspecting and maintaining campsites and common areas; repairing and maintaining signs, picnic tables, fire pits, and minor infrastructure; painting; litter removal; restroom and comfort station cleaning between contractor services; playground and safety equipment inspections; cleaning fire pits; inspecting vacated campsites for damage; replenishing supplies; and assisting with weed and pest control through approved spraying methods. The intern also assists with routine safety checks of equipment, maintains records of completed work, and reports maintenance or safety concerns to staff.

Marginal Duties 

In addition to operational support, the intern may assist staff by collecting, preparing, and organizing routine environmental and biological data consistent with their level of training. Duties may include assisting with field data collection alongside professional staff; using GPS to help locate, identify, or document; compiling information from office files, published sources, and other agencies; preparing simple maps, charts, tables, and summaries for environmental documents; and assembling reports or project materials. The intern interacts with visitors by providing general information and educating the public on campground rules, safety practices, and applicable laws and regulations. Other tasks may include supporting water safety programs, maintaining bulletin boards and informational displays, assisting with guided facility tours of the Power Plant, data collection, ANS and other duties as assigned. The position primarily supports the upkeep, safety, and functionality of recreation facilities while professionally representing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Required Qualifications 

Must be 18 years of age; Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license; 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 

Applicants with an interest in outdoor recreation, natural resources, environmental studies, or a related field are preferred. Experience working with the public, performing manual labor outdoors, and strong communication skills are highly desirable. The ideal candidate demonstrates a positive attitude, the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and an interest in supporting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation mission while providing excellent service to visitors and assisting with the operation and maintenance of project recreation areas.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Housing is not provided.

Compensation  

Living Allowance: $350/week; Housing Allowance: $1,200/month (4 months); Commuting Allowance: $90/week; up to $650 in reimbursable expenses for relocation

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Driving Training

First Aid/CPR

Interpretive Skills

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.