Park Authority

Title: Park Services Division Intern – Business Strategy and Administration
Department: Park Services Division
Location: Herrity Building (Fairfax)/Mount Vernon Rec Center

Position Summary: This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to community engagement efforts, agency process improvements, and impactful events while gaining valuable skills in park services management. The Park Services Division Intern will support the implementation of strategic business and administrative functions within the Park Services Division. The intern will analyze and support the implementation of agency process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery. Additionally, the intern will contribute to outreach events and play an active role in the reopening of the Mount Vernon Rec Center. This position requires evening and weekend availability. 

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Analysis

• Assist in implementing and monitoring division initiatives for recreation centers.
• Conduct research and propose recommendations to improve equity, access, and efficiency in recreation services.
• Analyze agency strategies, operational and financial data to identify rec center connections, inefficiencies, and opportunities for growth.

Event and Outreach Support

• Represent the Park Services Division at community outreach events countywide, promoting programs, memberships, and rental opportunities.
• Support and evaluate outreach efforts that targets the Mount Vernon Rec Center service area

Mount Vernon Rec Center Reopening

• Provide support for the reopening of the Mount Vernon Rec Center, including logistical coordination, promotional efforts, and operational setup.
• Assist with marketing initiatives, community communication, and stakeholder engagement for Summer 2025.

Agency Process Change Implementation

• Collaborate with staff to analyze current processes and identify areas for improvement.
• Support the implementation of process change initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Collect and analyze data to evaluate the effectiveness of changes and recommend further adjustments as needed.

Administrative Support

• Assist in preparing reports, tracking project timelines, and creating presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain records of outreach efforts, event participation, and related documentation.

Flexible Availability: Attend evening and weekend events, meetings, and activities as necessary for successful evaluation and to support the division’s initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Educational Background: Enrolled in a degree program in Business Administration, Recreation Management, Public Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
• Skills
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with data visualization tools.
  • Ability to analyze data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
  • Adaptability in a dynamic environment and ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Experience: Experience or coursework in process improvement, change management, event planning, community engagement, or recreation services is preferred.

Benefits:

• Gain practical experience in public administration, strategic planning, process analysis, and community outreach.
• Participate in high-impact events and contribute to a major facility reopening.
• Build professional networks within the recreation and parks field.
• Flexible scheduling options to accommodate academic commitments.

To apply: please send your resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Position Title: Engineering/Survey Technician Intern
Location: Herrity Building; 12055 Government center parkway, Fairfax, VA.  
Hours: 24 to 32 hours per week in-person (office and field work). 
Salary: $16 to $23 per hour. 

Overview: under general supervision of the section chief, does technical and survey work of a semi-professional nature in the office or field, as well as automated survey technical support, exercising in-dependent judgement and initiative, and does related work as required.

Duties: 

FIELD DUTIES

• Help carry equipment.
• Setup and operate total station, or gps equipment.  Measure properly with chain or tape measurer. 
• Performs the duties of other crew members when necessary. 
• Prepares proper, legible, and accurate field notes with sketches of the project site.  
• Use magnetic locator to recover property corners and monuments.
• Drive pipes, stakes, and hubs with sledgehammer. 
• Setup tripods, total station, and prisms.  
• Operates rods, and prism poles. 
• Assists in keeping notes.  Cuts brush when required. 
• Cleans and cares for survey equipment.  
• On-load and off-load equipment. 
• Clean and provide maintenance of survey vehicles when required.

OFFICE DUTIES

• Perform mathematical computations necessary to reduce and adjust field notes, prepares pre-liminary research for survey projects, evaluating available data, interpreting legal descriptions, engineering designs, plats, topographic maps, and field data. Perform land records research.  Assists in preparing technical reports. Perform survey computations.  Maintains files.
• Make prints and prepare copies.  Upload and download points and raw data from data collectors. Use excel, word, and cad.

OTHER DUTIES

• Maintains supplies.  Recommend new equipment. 
• May attend pre-construction meetings. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Preferred Major or Program(s) of Study: civil engineering, land surveying, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• May include hiking through stream valleys and properties of varying terrain.
• Operation of vehicles.
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to carry up to 50 pounds of equipment unassisted.

To Apply: Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. 

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Position Title: Trails Intern
Location: Herrity Building, 12055 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA and FCPA sites across Fair-fax County. 
Hours: Up 40 hours per week. 
Salary: Starting at $16.49 to $25.00 

Overview: The Park Authority Mission is to enrich quality of life for all members of the community through an enduring park system that provides a healthy environment, preserves natural and cultural heritage, offers inspiring recreational experiences, and promotes healthy lifestyles.

This internship is primarily field-based but will incorporate an office component in support of FCPA’s Trails Program. The intern will work on trail planning projects across the Fairfax County Park Authority. The intern will conduct hard and natural surface trail conditions assessment surveys to collect trail da-ta using FCPA trail standards and field protocol. The intern will be trained on FCPA’s trail standards and surveying trail conditions. The intern will input their results into a GIS database and update exist-ing assessment data. These trail condition surveys are critically important to FCPA Trails Program in prioritizing trail projects and determining new projects to further examine. In addition, the intern will work on developing a wayfinding trail signage plan for the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail (GCCCT), a 42-mile trail from Great Falls National Park on the Potomac River to the serene Occoquan River. The intern will determine and collect signpost locations and wayfinding context for specific sign locations along the GCCCT. Opportunities to implement signage will be based on timing and resources. The in-tern will also perform trail analysis of FCPA’s current trail network to help determine missing trail con-nectivity and identify potential trail project opportunities. This internship is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in trail planning and development at Park agencies.

Preferred Major or Program(s) of Study: Planning, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Outdoor Recreation, Government

Minimum Qualifications: Valid Driver’s License, experience working outdoors
Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of trail planning and development

To Apply: Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. 

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Fairfax County Farmers Market Intern – Green Spring Gardens

Green Spring Gardens and Fairfax County Farmers Markets invite undergraduate students to apply for our 2025 Food Security Internship. The intern will assist with farmers market operations with a special focus on the SNAP at Market Program. The goal of the program is to increase food security providing affordable fresh and local produce to the
community. The intern will receive training, network with nonprofits, and develop community engagement skills. Visit our website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets/. Occasional Saturday or Sunday work will be required.

Additional Information: 

The Farmers Market Food Security Intern Duties may include: Attend market weekly to assist Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers and perform SNAP transactions; help plan and facilitate events for Farmers Market Week; engage the community through marketing, outreach, and customer surveys, drive county vehicle to
deliver supplies to market. Attend and report on Fairfax Food Council and Urban Ag Working Group meetings; manage data, Excel spreadsheets, and perform additional tasks as assigned. Complete Drive Cam training. Complete an
independent project on themes including, but not limited to, food security, local food systems, community nutrition, sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, equity.

Qualifications:

Applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year college and be able to provide written enrollment verification. Students who graduated within the 2024-25 academic year are still eligible. A qualified applicant must be passionate about local foods, community health and nutrition, and equity in food systems. Must be available August 3-9 for
Farmers Market Week events. Must be able to interact respectfully with customers and de-escalate customer complaints.

Applicants must provide for their own transportation, stand or sit for market duration, lift 50 pounds, work outdoors in rain and humidity and other adverse weather conditions, be able to communicate orally and in writing and perform monetary transactions. Applicants should have familiarity with social media platforms and be able to learn new software.

Benefits: The intern will be a temporary, part-time employee of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49/hour
for up to 300 hours. Applicants should be able to work a flexible schedule of 15-20 hours per week.

To Apply:  Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. Open until filled.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Historic Resources Intern

Description:

Green Spring Gardens is a 31-acre public garden with a 1784 Historic House that offers themed gardens for enjoyment, education, and inspiration. Visit our website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring. The intern will assist with all aspects of daily operations of the Historic House, including interpretation of the house and its historic landscape for daily visitors, taking program reservations, and assisting as needed with historic programs. The internship will involve researching and documenting various aspects of the site’s history and local history as it relates to Green Spring. The intern will also assist in researching for and developing historical interpretive programs for the public, and developing exhibits. Occasional Saturday or Sunday work will be required.

Compensation: Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49/hour for up to 300 hours. Start and end dates are negotiable.

Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two or four-year history, museum studies or similar degree program, must be able to lift more than 20 lbs, ability to communicate verbally and in writing, must be able to climb stairs and have dexterity to operate a personal computer. Internship responsibilities include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities, and presenting a written and /or oral project report.

To Apply:  Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. Open until filled.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Job Title: Urban Agriculture Intern

Description: The Urban Agriculture Intern will assist with the administration of Fairfax County’s Garden Plot Rental Program. Interns will be exposed to project planning and administration and gain skills in communicating with a diverse audience. Interns will also enhance their knowledge of vegetable and fruit gardening.

Green Spring Gardens is a 31-acre public garden with a 1784 Historic House that offers themed gardens for enjoyment, education, and inspiration. Visit our website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring/.

Duties will include physical clearing of vacant plots for new tenants, conducting spot checks as part of garden plot site inspections, data entry and statistics, and promoting the program through short writing assignments and social media posts. Special projects will be assigned.

Compensation: Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49 per hour for up to 300 hours. Start and end dates are negotiable.

Hours: 15 hours per week (telework not an option.) Three workdays required with times negotiable. Start Date: April 1 but no later than June 1. End Date: August 2 with possible extension up to August 23.

Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year horticulture, botany, environmental education, or similar degree program; ability to communicate verbally and in writing; be able to lift 40 lbs.; ability to traverse uneven ground; tolerate heat and humidity working outdoors; and have their own transportation.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience with data collection and reporting. Microsoft Office skills including Word and Excel. Legible handwriting. Botanical knowledge helpful but not required. Photography and social media skills a plus.

To Apply:  Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. Open until filled.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Job Title: Youth & Family Education Intern

Description: Green Spring Gardens is a 31-acre public garden with a 1784 Historic House that offers themed gardens for enjoyment, education, and inspiration.

The intern will assist with planning and conducting nature-based programs for children and families, including summer camps. The intern will learn how to develop nature-based education programs for different age groups, how to create program lesson plans within budget, how to manage instruction outdoors, how to create and use education manipulatives, and gain feed-back on presentation skills. Description of Hazard(s): Contact with suspected-to-be/may-be infected members of the public within 6 for more than 15 minutes, during routine instruction, training, or presentations.

Compensation: Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49/ per hour for up to 300 hours. Start and end dates are negotiable.
 
Requirements:   Preference is given to applicants enrolled in a two or four year education program in environmental education, horticulture, botany, or a similar degree program. Preferred applicants will have experience with and/or commitment to educating children. Applicants need dexterity to operate personal computer and have ability to traverse uneven ground. Internship responsibilities may include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities, garden maintenance, and presenting a written and oral project report.

To Apply:  Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. Open until filled.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  
 

Job Title: Horticultural Intern

Description: Green Spring Gardens is a 31-acre public garden with a 1784 Historic House that offers themed gardens for enjoyment, education and inspiration. 

The internship will provide a hands-on horticulture introduction to a small public garden. The intern will work in a variety of gardens, learning basic maintenance activities such as watering, weeding, and mulching. The internship will help to hone plant identification skills and provide opportunities to work with experienced horticulture staff and
volunteers. Safety and operations training will be provided. Other duties may be assigned. Occasional Saturday or Sunday shift will be required.

Compensation: 

This internship is generously funded by the Friends of Green Spring (FROGS).

Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49/hour for up to 300 hours. Start and end dates are negotiable.

Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two or four-year horticulture, botany, environmental education or similar degree program. Applicants must be able to lift more than 50lbs and traverse uneven ground.

To Apply:  Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. Open until filled.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Job Title: Horticultural Intern– Virginia Native Plant Garden

Description: Green Spring Gardens is a 31-acre public garden with a 1784 Historic House that offers themed gardens for enjoyment, education, and inspiration.

The internship will provide a hands-on horticulture introduction to a small public garden. The intern will work in a variety of gardens with a focus on Virginia native plants, learning basic maintenance activities such as watering, weeding, and mulching. The internship will help to hone plant identification skills and provide opportunities to work with experienced horticulture staff and volunteers. Safety operations training will be provided. Other duties as assigned. Occasional Saturday and Sunday shift will be required.

Compensation:

The internship is generously funded by the Potowmack Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society.

Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49/hour for up to 300 hours. Start and end dates are negotiable.

Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two or four-year horticulture, botany, environmental education or similar degree program. Applicants must be able to lift more than 50 lbs and traverse uneven ground. Internship responsibilities include writing an article about the internship for the VNPS Potomack Chapter’s newsletter.

To Apply:  Send resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. Open until filled.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Title: Golf Operations Intern  
Salary: $16-20/hour, June 1st - August 15th, 2025. No Benefits
Location: Twin Lakes Golf Course 6201 Union Mill Rd, Clifton, Virginia, 20124
Hours: 8:30AM- 4:30PM Monday to Friday approximately. Golf Operation hours vary over weekends, nights, sunrise and sunset. Applicants can expect a dynamic schedule that will adjust depending on the events, tournaments, and daily play at the golf course. 

Description: Spend a summer at one of the largest 36-Hole facilities in the Northern Virginia area! Twin Lakes Golf Course is a Fairfax County Park Authority site that boasts two 18-Hole golf courses. The site hosts tournaments, leagues, daily play, special events, and weddings. Twin Lakes is also the host site for multiple high school golf teams, VSGA events, and many other junior events. The operation is host to many high school championships, corporate outings, and is a VSGA Member Club. 

Golf operations interns will aid the golf staff across multiple areas of the operation. Special events, tournaments, maintenance, food and beverage, and merchandising are some of the areas that you can expect to focus on. Interns will be able to get a taste of each area of the golf industry which will allow for a better understanding of the many different careers the industry offers. Interns will gain valuable experience and skills in communication, vendor relations, high volume workflow, customer service, and industry standards. This internship is a great opportunity for someone that is interested in the golf industry but doesn’t quite know where they will fit. Interns will be able to see a wide variety of career opportunities, all underneath the Park Authority umbrella. 

Requirements: 
Applicants must be willing to work evenings and weekends depending on event schedules. Applicants must be willing to learn customer service standards and have a positive attitude. College students or graduates preferably with a related degree. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to complete assigned tasks, communicate in person and in writing. Successful candidates will have some experience in either events, golf, golf operations, or related fields. Experience in customer service is preferred. Applicants should have a basic understanding of Microsoft office and outlook. 

Additionally, all successful applicants must agree to a criminal background check including fingerprinting, attend mandatory training, possess current or acquire first aid and CPR certifications before the start of the internship. Valid Driver's License. 

To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume and three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please notify the hiring supervisor if they need to verify employment/internship, provide weekly or monthly updates, or communicate with your advisor. If selected, you will be notified of additional procedures to begin employment. Interested candidates should forward resumes to Kara Spain, General Manager, Twin Lakes Golf Course at kara.spain@fairfaxcounty.gov

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Interpretive Land Use Intern at Hidden Oaks Nature Center
 
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is seeking an Interpretive Land Use Intern at Hidden Oaks Nature Center (HONC) to be a part of one of the most highly regarded park systems in the country. Hidden Oaks Nature Center is nestled inside the 52-acre Annandale District Park and provides programming for a diverse population with over 30,000 visitors per year.
 
Description: Work with HONC management team to design a plan to best use the space behind our nature center for interpretive programming, and to improve the use of our Nature Playce area for preschool nature play and programs. The area behind the center was previously the location of a carved tree sculpture that was the centerpiece for outdoor learning during COVID. The tree was recently removed due to decay, and park staff seek to renovate the area. The intern will assess the programming needs and the natural resources of the area, in coordination with the development of our Site Interpretive Plan, and produce a design that fulfills this objective. Nature Playce is a 1/3-acre, unstructured woodland play area near the Nature Center. Nature Center staff would like to expand preschool field trip experiences to include activities in this area. The intern will assess this fenced-in area as well as the nearby seating area, pond, etc., and determine what improvements can be made to rejuvenate the area and provide more opportunities for its visitors (typically preschoolers and younger elementary students) to enjoy outdoor natural play and experience nature in a safe environment. 
 
Duties can include: 

• Research, data collection, and analysis, including gathering input from park stakeholders
• Develop written and/or visual plans for land use in a park setting.
• Develop program ideas or elements for preschool students to enhance nature play. 
• Oversee implementation of plan or parts thereof, as possible
• Promote a sense of wonder in park visitors 
• Write an article for FCPA social media and HONC newsletter describing the summer internship.

Skill development:  resource assessment, land use planning, interpretive program development, project management skills, resume building, and completed project.

Compensation: Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.49- $22 per hour, depending on prior experience, for up to 440 hours. May-August. Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday -Friday (telework not an option.)
 
Start Date: May (No later than May 27). End Date: August (No later than August 31).
 
Requirements: Microsoft Office skills including Word and Excel. Applicants must be enrolled in a Bachelors or master’s program in environmental education, landscape architecture, natural resource management, environmental science, or other related field. Strong organizational abilities and ability to work independently. Strong verbal and written communication skills in English. Ability to do moderate lifting (up to 20lbs), walking and hiking on rough unpaved, or off-trail surfaces. Ability to stand or sit for long periods to conduct field work or to perform office tasks. Work location 7701 Royce Street, Annandale, VA. 

Preferred Qualifications:  Experience in working with diverse populations and within a diverse team. Experience in preschool education and/or outdoor nature education. Multi-lingual. National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide certification or higher.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

To apply: Send your resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. 

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY.  

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Natural Resource Branch IMA Program Internship

Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority, Natural Resource Management and Protection Branch
Job title: Invasive Management Area Program Internship
Location: Fairfax County, VA
Hours and compensation: $15/hour. Complete 50 hours from June 25th – August 10th. Holidays and leave are unpaid. A vehicle will be provided for fieldwork from headquarters in Fairfax. Must have a valid driver’s license.
Application deadline: April 4th, 2025

This internship will provide support directly to the Invasive Management Area (IMA) Volunteer Site Leaders.

Organization overview: The Fairfax County Park Authority maintains approximately 24,000 acres of public land including natural areas, cultural resources, and recreational facilities. The Natural Resource Branch (NRB) falls under the Resource Management Division of the Park Authority and is responsible for land stewardship and implementation of the agency’s Natural Resource Management Plan. For more information please visit: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/resources/resources-nrp.htm

We are looking for someone to bring diverse lived experience of underserved communities. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are supported by the One Fairfax Program.

Mission: To improve the natural environment of Fairfax County Parks by removal of non-native invasive (NNI) plants and restoration of wildlife habitat.

Responsibilities:

• Learn to identify the common non-native invasive (NNI) plants in the area, as well as some Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) species.
• Learn why NNIs are problematic and the appropriate removal process for those plants.
• Learn about healthy wildlife habitat and high-quality forests through the Non-Native Invasive Assessment Protocol.
• Work with and support one or more IMA Site Leaders.
• Control invasive plants using manual control techniques in one or more Park Authority parks.
• Participate in volunteer invasive plant removal events.
• Help with locating and removing EDRR species when needed.
• Project may include helping to restore native habitat.
• Assess an area of parkland and come up with a plan for removal of non-native invasive plants (management plan) and native plant restoration through native planting if needed. The intern will then have the opportunity to move forward with the management plan and will be able to assess the results of their work.
• Support Natural Resource Branch in other projects as needed.

Training Required (provided by FCPA):

• IMA PowerPoint Presentation
• FCPA Online Volunteer Training
• FCPA Online Outdoor Training
• Drive Cam Training

Considerations:
This internship is primarily field-based and the intern may or may not require a vehicle for transportation. A vehicle will be provided for fieldwork from headquarters in Fairfax. Interns will be permitted to use hand tools after receiving training and practice with Park Authority staff. Interns are not allowed to use power tools or chemicals. The Park Authority will provide Personal Protective Equipment, tools and gloves.

Interns will have the opportunity to participate in other field and educational activities conducted by the Natural Resource Branch as events arise. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in the field of natural resources and develop technical skills.

How to apply: Please email a letter of interest, resume (may include volunteer experiences), and contact information for two references (school, work, or club organizations) to Gloria Medina at Gloria.Medina@fairfaxcounty.gov by April 4th, 2025. Call for more information: 703-324-6525.

The population of Fairfax County is very diverse where 38.7% of residents speak a language other than English at home (Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and others) and we encourage candidates bilingual in English and a foreign language to apply to this opportunity.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Title: Fishing Education Intern 
Salary: $16-20/hour, June 1st - August 15th, 2025. No Benefits
Location: Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA 22066
Hours: 8:30AM- 4:30PM Monday to Friday approximately, schedule may vary based on week, no more than 40 hours per week.

Description: Spend a summer on the river! Riverbend Park is FCPA’s only staffed riverfront park. Riverbend offers diverse summer programming, including summer camps for campers age 4-15, family programs, and outdoor recreation classes. Benefits of working here include a community of supportive staff and opportunities to participate in outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking.  Play your part by working in and preserving this beautiful park! 

Fishing education interns will assist park naturalists and summer camp teachers in leading various camp programs at Riverbend Park and other Fairfax County Park Authority sites as needed.  Interns will gain experience working with children and teens, while learning and developing outdoor, educational, interpretive, and leadership skills. You will be responsible for communication with campers, and their families and FCPA staff while, maintaining a safe and fun environment. This internship is an excellent opportunity for someone with an interest in outdoor, environmental or non-traditional education.

Requirements: Must enjoy and have enthusiasm for working with children and stewardship. College students or graduates preferably with major in Education, Biology, Environmental Science, or Parks and Recreation.  Successful candidates will also demonstrate the ability to carry out assigned tasks, communicate orally and in writing, to all staff and emergency personnel. Successful candidates will have freshwater angling experience, working knowledge of fishing equipment, techniques, and handling. Ability to paddle a canoe and/or kayak. Introductory training will be required.  Experience with children, paddlesports, fishing and outdoor skills are preferred.

Additionally, all successful applicants must agree to a criminal background check including fingerprinting, attend mandatory training, possess current or acquire first aid and CPR certifications before the start of camps, and have never been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor related to abuse, neglect, exploitation or other barrier crimes as listed on the Sworn Disclosure Statement of the Criminal Record Check. Valid Driver's License. 

To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume and three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please notify the hiring supervisor if they need to verify employment/internship, provide weekly or monthly updates, or communicate with your advisor. If selected, you will be notified of additional procedures to begin employment. Interested candidates should forward resumes to Casey Tinius, Riverbend Park by email to Casey.Tinius@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Title: Outdoor Education Intern 
Salary: $16-20/hour, June 1st - August 15th, 2025. No Benefits
Location: Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA 22066
Hours: 8:30AM- 4:30PM Monday to Friday approximately, schedule may vary based on week, no more than 40 hours per week

Description: Spend a summer on the river! Riverbend Park is FCPA’s only staffed riverfront park. Riverbend offers diverse summer programming, including summer camps for campers age 4-15, family programs, and outdoor recreation classes. Benefits of working here include a community of supportive staff and opportunities to participate in outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking.  Play your part by working in and preserving this beautiful park! 

Outdoor education interns will assist park naturalists and summer camp teachers in leading various camp programs at Riverbend Park and other Fairfax County Park Authority sites as needed.  Interns will gain experience working with children and teens, while learning and developing outdoor, educational, interpretive, and leadership skills. You will be responsible for communication with campers, and their families and FCPA staff while, maintaining a safe and fun environment. This internship is an excellent opportunity for someone with an interest in outdoor, environmental or non-traditional education.

Requirements:  Must enjoy and have enthusiasm for working with children and stewardship.  College students or graduates preferably with major in Education, Biology, Environmental Science, or Parks and Recreation.  Successful candidates will also demonstrate the ability to carry out assigned tasks, communicate orally and in writing to all staff and emergency personnel. Experience working with children and participating in outdoor recreation or environmental science preferred. 

Additionally, all successful applicants must agree to a criminal background check including fingerprinting, attend mandatory training, possess current or acquire first aid and CPR certifications before the start of camps, and have never been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor related to abuse, neglect, exploitation or other barrier crimes as listed on the Sworn Disclosure Statement of the Criminal Record Check. Valid Driver's License. 

To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume and three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please notify the hiring supervisor if they need to verify employment/internship, provide weekly or monthly updates, or communicate with your advisor. If selected, you will be notified of additional procedures to begin employment. Interested candidates should forward resumes to Casey Tinius, Riverbend Park by email to Casey.Tinius@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.