Education & Outreach Intern, Transportation and Natural Resources

Join Travis County Transportation and Natural Resources as an Education & Outreach Intern for the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and gain hands-on experience supporting conservation, education, and community engagement initiatives. In this internship, you will work alongside Balcones Canyonlands Preserve staff to promote environmental stewardship, assist with outreach programs, and support efforts that connect the public with the unique natural resources of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. This opportunity provides valuable exposure to conservation and public service while helping you develop communication, education, and project coordination skills.
 

Common degree plans eligible for the Education & Outreach Internship (majors and/or minors):

• Environmental Studies
• Environmental Science
• Natural Resource Management
• Wildlife Biology
• Sustainability Studies
• Parks and Recreation Management
• Communications
• Education
• Public Relations
• Public Administration

Responsibilities

The Education & Outreach Intern will gain hands-on experience developing a communications plan for our education & outreach program. The intern will be expected to work 2-3 days a week on their primary project. The remainder of their time will be spent assisting outreach staff with preparing for community events or assisting in biological monitoring.  This will include guided hikes, school programs, restoration workdays, rare plant surveys, and working in the greenhouse. They will also be invited to attend community meetings with partners including Austin Travis County Wildfire Coalition and BCP neighbor outreach event at the future site of the Visitor Center. 

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting Preserve staff with education, outreach, and community engagement activities.
• Assisting with the development and delivery of a communications plan for our education & outreach program.
• Participating in outreach events, volunteer activities, and public engagement opportunities.
• Assisting with communication efforts, including content development and outreach materials.
• Supporting program coordination, data collection, and reporting activities.
• Attending staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university and have completed at least 30 credit hours.
• Pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Wildlife Biology, Sustainability Studies, Parks and Recreation Management, Communications, Education, Public Relations, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrated interest in environmental education, conservation, community outreach, public engagement, natural resource stewardship, or local government operations.

Licenses, Registrations, Certifications, or Special Requirements

This position may require a valid Texas Driver’s License and the ability to travel to Preserve sites and outreach events as needed.
 

Skill in:

• Verbal and written communication
• Public speaking and presentation delivery
• Developing educational and outreach materials
• Researching, gathering, and summarizing information
• Building relationships with diverse audiences
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
   

Ability to:

• Manage time effectively and prioritize multiple tasks
• Meet deadlines and complete projects in a timely manner
• Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community members
• Communicate complex environmental and conservation topics in an engaging manner
• Research, compile, analyze, and interpret information
• Demonstrate active listening and openness to feedback
• Support colleagues on shared projects and initiatives
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders
• Attend Leadership Training
   

Benefits

• Practical experience in environmental education, conservation, and community outreach
• Professional mentorship and networking opportunities
• Exposure to local government and natural resource stewardship
• Contribution to meaningful projects that support conservation and community engagement