Yellowstone National Park is currently recruiting for the 2015 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program, a residential work and education program for young men and women between the ages of 15 and 18. The program is designed to develop an appreciation for the nation’s natural resources and heritage through unique educational, recreational, and work experiences, according to a statement released by the park’s public affairs office.
Yellowstone recruits youth from all social, economic, ethnic, and racial backgrounds for the YCC program. Corps members work together under adult leadership to complete conservation projects such as rehabilitation of trails, campground restoration, and a wide variety of resource management, visitor support services, and maintenance projects.
Participants and staff develop their job and leadership skills while further exploring personal values, gaining self-esteem, expanding their awareness of work ethics, and learning firsthand about environmental and conservation issues. Corps members will also participate in evening and weekend recreational activities and discover the many options for careers in the National Park Service and other land management agencies.
Yellowstone will offer two, month-long YCC sessions, June 14 to July 15, and July 19 to August 19. Sixty youth will be selected from across the country to participate in the program.
No previous wilderness experience is required, but a willingness and ability to work in a physically active outdoor program, getting along well with others, and maintaining a positive attitude are essential for success.
Participants will be required to live on location, and room and board will be provided at a minimal cost. Wages will be set at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Applicants must be citizens of the United States and be 15 years of age by June 14, but not over 18 years of age by August 19.
Questions may be directed to the park’s YCC Program Manager at (307) 344-2256. Completed application materials must be received no later than March 1, 2015.
The Yellowstone YCC Program is funded by park entrance fees and the Yellowstone Park Foundation.
For further information and application materials visit www.nps.gov/yell/parkmgmt/yccjobs.htm.