POSITION SUMMARY

The Water Economy Workforce Fellowship Program is a partnership between Cuyahoga County, the Student Conservation Association, and the NOAA Climate Ready Workforce Internship program. The Watershed Education & Community Engagement Intern will gain hands-on experience in watershed conservation and environmental education at Doan Brook Watershed Partnership, working directly with community stakeholders and partner organizations including schools, Cleveland-area neighborhoods, and local environmental groups. The intern will spearhead things like social media campaigns to increase public awareness of watershed and stormwater issues, design interactive educational activities, and support community events. The intern will also assist with Brook & Bloom in rain garden installations and school outreach. The primary goal of this position is to engage directly with diverse community members to increase understanding of watershed health and inspire collective action.

Schedule

May 26, 2026 - August 15, 2026

Regular schedule will be Tuesday - Saturday

Hours: 40 hours per week

Some weekend and evening work is required

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Interns will work directly with their host site at Doan Brook Watershed Partnership on projects related to watershed education, stormwater management, and community engagement. Internship work will vary by project, and may include but is not limited to: Design and creation of sustainability-focused infographics and social media content; development of engaging posts, graphics, and videos for digital platforms; community engagement and education at public events; supporting youth fishing programs and outdoor access initiatives; assisting with watershed hikes, stream cleanups, and environmental monitoring; conducting school outreach; design and fabrication of interactive educational activities; event planning, setup, and facilitation; assisting with rain garden installations; communications and public inquiry responses; and development and deployment of accessible educational materials for diverse audiences.

MARGINAL DUTIES

Participate in NOAA Climate Ready Workforce learning and certification opportunities; Attend Fresh Water Institute convenings; Support Doan Brook Watershed Partnership staff in activities that advance the organization's mission; Meet with other participants in the Water Economy Fellow cohort as applicable.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Must be a recent high school graduate, currently enrolled college student, or recent college graduate; Must be a minimum of 18 years of age; Must have the ability to legally work in the US; Must be able to meet SCA's criminal background check standards; Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation; Ability to lift and carry 25-50 lbs and navigate uneven terrain; Ability to work some weekend and evening events

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Currently enrolled in college or recent graduate; Interest in or coursework related to environmental science, sustainability, education, communications, graphic design, or related fields; Aspiration to work in the environmental field (degree not required); Experience with graphic design software or social media content creation; Familiarity with data analysis or digital communication tools; Interest in or experience with accessible science education and equitable community engagement; Hands-on experience with event coordination, community outreach, or outdoor education; Experience with hand tools, fabrication, or field work; Familiarity with the Doan Brook watershed and Cleveland communities; Connection to Cleveland Municipal School District or Cleveland-area neighborhoods; Strong passion for environmental education, flexibility, and enthusiasm for learning; Strong communication skills, particularly in working with community partners and diverse audiences.

Age

Adults 18 or older

Compensation

$850/week living allowance • $1000/month housing allowance (3 disbursements) All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Living Accommodations

No housing provided on site. A monthly housing stipend is provided.

Additional Training and Certifications Available

• Cohort-based networking and learning opportunities;
• Intercultural Competency certification;
• Water quality monitoring training;
• Stormwater infrastructure and maintenance training;
• OSU Stone Lab workshops: https://ohioseagrant.osu.edu/education/stonelab/courses/workshops
• OSU Stone Lab courses: https://ohioseagrant.osu.edu/education/stonelab/courses/cxfg1/water-quality-management

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.