Contracted Student Interns - First Peoples Stewards Partnership Intern

Position Information:

Contracted Student Intern: First Peoples Stewards Partnership Intern (UNPAID)

Start/End Date:  1/19/2027 - 4/19/2027

Salary Rate:  $0.00 (UNPAID Student Internship)

Weekly Hours:  20 hours (part-time)

Number of Openings:  1 position

Who We Are:
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Who We Are as an Employer:

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreation facilities we care for – strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs please visit www.mass.gov/dcr or contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov

 Job Opening:

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks applicants for First Peoples Stewards Partnership Intern (Unpaid Contracted Student Interns) for 2027 Winter Semester to perform the following job duties:

This internship is unpaid and designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field.  Candidates may be eligible to earn academic credit through their college or university.

General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities:

The intern will provide administrative support to the DCR Indigenous People's Partnership Coordinator in developing and launching the First People, First Stewards program, a program that creates reciprocal relationships between DCR, Tribal governments and the Indigenous community stakeholders. They will learn about the tribes that are Indigenous to the Commonwealth, best practices for tribal engagement and communications strategies for working with Indigenous community stakeholders.

Detailed Statement of Duties and Responsibilities:

The intern will develop DCR facing program materials, graphics and content, organize information, maintain databases, take meeting notes, and interface with various DCR staff to support the communications of the program. Some writing and research may be required.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:

• Content creation (i.e. newsletters and graphics) through platforms like Canva or Adobe Suite, excel, strong written and verbal communication. 

• Preferred academic coursework in Indigenous/First Nations Studies or anthropology; or first hand experience working in and with American Indian/Native American tribes and communities. 

• Selected candidate will report to the assigned office location (Boston, MA) and occasional site visits accompanied by their supervisor/manager.  This is to provide enhanced educational opportunities and hands-on exposure and work experience.