EPIC U.S. Forest Service (USFS)

Program Overview

Individual placement (internship) opportunities are perhaps the most effective tool currently available to those seeking direct experience within our public lands management agencies. The EPIC USFS Division works with the US Forest Service (and some non-federal partners) to place individuals in a variety of positions and Ranger Districts, encouraging professional development and experiential learning for individuals interested in a career in public lands. Positions with the EPIC USFS Division are available year round, with an emphasis on the summer season, and typically last between 3-12 months. A majority of these opportunities are in the Western United States.

The US Forest Service (USFS) and ACE EPIC are looking to engage the next generation of land managers and conservation professionals. Through these placements, individuals will gain insight and awareness of management practices of our federal public lands. 

By exposing individuals to environmental and land management careers and techniques within the USFS, they will gain valuable direct professional experience, enhance their skills sets, and enhance their future career opportunities. Through this program, ACE and the USFS are looking to find passionate individuals from various backgrounds. 

What We Do

EPIC USFS works to provide opportunities in a number of disciplines, including but not limited to: Wilderness monitoring, wildlife biology, archaeology, forestry, visitor services, botany, trails, range, recreation and more.

Where We Work

EPIC USFS typically works in the Western United States with a majority of projects located throughout California, Oregon, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. 

Why Individual Placements?

Individual placements offer the opportunity to work directly with various land and environmental managers and provide participants the ability to gain hands-on experience in fields that interest them. Direct experience in these programs allows participants the opportunity to expand their resume, their skillset and network with existing professionals. 

Benefits

Beyond direct experience, all ACE positions are paid opportunities, with participants being provided a weekly living allowance during their terms of service. These living allowances vary based on the position, so check each position description for additional information. Participants may also be eligible to earn an AmeriCorps education award, as well as special hiring statues for federal placements. Check with the listed point of contact on each description for more information.

Selection Criteria

ACE reviews all applications for positions. Applications will be reviewed and rated according to the following criteria – relevant educational and work experience, oral and written communication skills, maturity, professionalism, technical knowledge and expertise, evidence of adaptability and adventurousness, and ability to work effectively with diverse audiences. Final candidates will be required to undergo a background check before beginning their assignment.

What to Expect/FAQ
  • Who should I address my cover letter to?
    • Each position description should include an ACE EPIC point of contact. Cover letters can be addressed to this person or be addressed to ACE EPIC or “To Whom It May Concern”
  • How long until I should hear back about my application? 
    • Applications may take up to a month to review. If you are unsure of the status of your application, please reach out to the ACE representative listed at the bottom of the opportunity posting. 
  • What does the interview process look like?
    • ACE Staff will reach out to set up initial interviews with candidates and go over basic information regarding the position. Once initial interviews are completed, top candidates will be sent to the Forest partner who will typically do second interviews before selecting a candidate. Depending on the position, this process can take a few weeks. 
    • Once selected for a position, members will receive background check information, onboarding paperwork, uniforms, and be put in contact with their Forest supervisor.
  • Does ACE or USFS cover relocation/travel expenses?
    • Members are required to arrange their own transportation to the location of the placement if relocating. 
  • Will housing be provided?
    • Some positions will include Forest Service housing for little to no cost to the member. Other positions may provide a housing allowance and others will not have provided housing. Check the opportunity posting for more information or reach out to the listed point of contact for more information regarding housing.
  • Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
    • Each position description will have a listed point of contact at the bottom section of each posting. 
Minimum Requirements
  • Members must be US citizen or Permanent Resident, as required to comply with U.S. government contracts
  • Members must be 18-30 (Applicants between 31 and 35 may be considered based on veteran status)
  • Ability to undergo a federal criminal history check
  • Some positions may require you to drive an ACE or agency vehicle. Members must have a valid driver’s license, clean driving record with ability to provide required documentation; (Driving record checks will be completed during on-boarding process. (Members must be 21+ to drive ACE/Agency vehicles)
USFS Members
USFS Members
USFS Members
USFS Members
USFS Members
USFS Members
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