NPS Conservation and Outdoor Recreation (COR) Program
The National Park Service (NPS) – Conservation and Outdoor Recreation (COR) Program supports community-led natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation projects across the nation. Their national network of conservation and recreation planning professionals partner with community groups, nonprofits, tribes, and state and local governments to design trails and parks, conserve and improve access to rivers, protect special places, and create recreation opportunities.
HAF and the NPS COR program have partnered to provide long-term professional fellowships for Latino young professionals interested in pursuing careers in fields related to public land management, program coordination, outdoor recreation, and community engagement.
HAF will recruit, select and oversee highly motivated recent grads or young professionals to work alongside NPS staff nationwide. Throughout these opportunities, fellows will participate in substantive assignments in their areas of expertise, collaborating closely with NPS staff day-to-day and receive additional mentoring and support through HAF.
Project Goal & Objectives
The partners’ long-term goal for this project is to build a strong number of inspired, skilled, culturally, ethnically, and economically diverse young professionals who have experienced conservation careers. This will result in a diverse workforce of conservationists that reflects the composition of the population.
Through this program, HAF will select and oversee a cohort of highly motivated fellows, ages 18 to 30 (or up to 35 for veterans), who will be introduced to conservation and outdoor recreation careers through 11 months paid fellowships involving hands-on work and training by NPS professionals. Each fellow will receive a weekly stipend of $480 based on a 40-hour workweek. A housing stipend will be provided if on-site or local housing is needed. Local interns are eligible for a transportation/commuting stipend. Travel expenses to/from NPS sites will be covered. Interns will participate in a HAF Cohort Conference planned in 2021.
After completing the fellowship, fellows are eligible for the Public Land Corps (PLC) non-competitive hiring authority. PLC status provides special hiring status when applying for future NPS or Dept of Interior positions.
2020 Hosting Sites
- 3 new positions starting in 2021 are live now.
Application Deadline & Timeframe
Each applicant must submit an application, resume, and requested materials for consideration. Writing samples will be required for communications specific positions. Resumes must include professional and educational experience, along with any certifications, awards or volunteer activities.
Applications for other COR fellowships starting in 2021 are currently posted on our website.
Basic Eligibility
- Completed Bachelors or Masters degrees
- Ages 18 to 30, up to 35 for veterans
- Possess US citizenship, or permanent residency in the US. Fellows must undergo a government background check if selected.
- Available to work full-time (40 hours weekly) for the entire fellowship term (11 months)
Selection criteria
Intern selection will be based on best fit with the unique requirements of each site. Final candidates will undergo a background check before beginning their assignment. Applications will be reviewed and rated according to the following criteria: relevant education and work/professional experience, writing samples, volunteer experience and activities, awards, certifications or licenses, application content, and responses.
