Employment | Colorado State Forest Service

Current employment openings

Full-time employment

Forester - Ongoing Recruitment - All 18 Field Offices

Nurturing forests, empowering communities: Your journey as a forester begins with us!

Join the Colorado State Forest Service and play a key role in forestry! We’re seeking dynamic foresters to lead various CSFS programs, from forest management to wildfire mitigation. Administer grant programs, provide expert assistance on forest health and contribute to government projects. If you have a strong background in silviculture, pest management and wildfire mitigation and are passionate about professional service and education, join our team! Contribute to healthy forests and vibrant communities with us. Apply now!

Field office locations: Boulder, Fort Collins, Franktown, Frisco, Golden, Cañon City, La Veta, Rifle, Woodland Park, Alamosa, Durango, Gunnison, Montrose, Salida, Grand Junction, Granby, Steamboat Springs, Colorado State Forest (Gould)

Salary range: $50,000 – $55,000 (Based on experience)

Why choose Colorado State Forest Service?

We not only value our forests; we also value our employees. Joining our team comes with incredible benefits:

Boot allowance: Receive a boot allowance every two years to ensure you’re equipped for the field.
Identity wear stipend: Personalize your work wear with our identity wear stipend.
Flexible schedules: Enjoy work-life balance with flexible scheduling options.
Cellphone allowance: Stay connected with a cell phone allowance or provided work cell.
Excellent healthcare benefits: We prioritize your well-being with comprehensive healthcare benefits.
Generous leave: Earn 15 days of sick leave and 24 days of annual leave each year.
Retirement plan: Benefit from a 12% employer contribution to your retirement plan.
Employee assistance program: Access well-being resources through our Employee Assistance Program.
Professional development: Enhance your skills with access to professional training through CSU.
Education credits: Receive 9 hours of education credits per year through CSU.
Tuition discounts: Enjoy a 50% tuition discount for your children, partner and spouse.
Moving expense allowance: We support your transition with a moving expense allowance.
Paid administrative leave: Contribute to your community with paid administrative leave for volunteering.

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. MT, Dec. 31, 2025.

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Finance specialist

Finance Specialist

Support Colorado’s forests through fiscal stewardship – join us as a finance specialist!

Do you have a talent for numbers, attention to detail, and a passion for making an impact? The Colorado State Forest Service is seeking a Finance Specialist to help manage the financial health of programs that protect and sustain Colorado’s forests. Apply today!

Location: Fort Collins, CO – with the flexibility of a hybrid schedule!

Salary: $65,000 – $68,500 (based on experience)

Essential duties

Provide financial guidance to staff across the agency on budgets, expenditures and reporting.
Assist in managing grant closeouts, reconciliations and cost-share tracking.
Train and support staff in CSU financial systems and compliance requirements.
Help oversee the financial operations of 400+ agency accounts and programs.
Collaborate closely with CSU’s Office of Sponsored Programs on sponsored projects.
Identify and resolve budgetary challenges while supporting strategic fiscal decisions.

This position is a key part of the CSFS Finance Team—a collaborative group dedicated to ensuring efficiency, transparency and consistency in financial operations across the agency. You’ll work independently, think critically and help empower teams statewide to manage resources effectively.

Why you’ll love this role

Be part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to stewarding Colorado’s forests.
Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities to learn and grow.
Collaborate with passionate professionals across diverse forestry programs.
Enjoy a flexible hybrid schedule and supportive team culture.

Minimum qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, communications or a related field
Minimum of two years of professional finance or accounting experience
Strong written communication and organizational skills

Why choose the Colorado State Forest Service?

We not only value our forests; we also value our employees. Joining our team comes with incredible benefits:

Identity wear stipend: Elevate your professional image with a stipend for personalized wear.
Connectivity privilege: Stay seamlessly connected with either a cell phone allowance or a provided work cell.
Premium healthcare benefits: Prioritize your well-being with access to exclusive and comprehensive healthcare benefits.
Time-off: Recharge with 15 days of sick leave and 24 days of annual leave earned each year.
Retirement plan: Secure your financial future with a remarkable 12% employer contribution to your retirement plan.
Assistance program: Access premium well-being resources through our Employee Assistance Program.
Professional development: Enhance your skills through personalized professional training opportunities facilitated by CSU.
Educational empowerment: Receive 9 hours of education credits annually through CSU.
Tuition privileges for family: Secure your family’s future with 50% off tuition for children, partner, and spouse.
Community leadership initiative: Give back to your community with paid administrative leave dedicated to volunteering.

For full consideration, applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. MT on December 1, 2025.

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Lead project forester

Lead forestry projects that shape Colorado’s future – join us as a lead project forester in Alamosa!

The Colorado State Forest Service is hiring a lead project forester to guide and manage complex forestry programs that directly impact Colorado’s forest health, wildfire mitigation, and community resilience. Based out of our Alamosa Field Office, this position plays a key role in leading collaborative, high-impact projects that strengthen partnerships, engage communities, and protect landscapes. Apply now to make a lasting difference!

Location: Alamosa

Salary: $60,000 – $65,000 (based on experience)

Key responsibilities

Lead and manage forestry programs in one or more of the following areas:
- Community Wildfire Protection Plans and wildfire hazard mitigation
- Forest agriculture
- Forest stewardship planning
- Good Neighbor Agreements
- Outreach and engagement
- Collaborative partnerships
Serve as the primary contact for local officials, landowners and key partners
Manage project budgets and oversee program implementation
Develop and administer grants and agreements
Lead area work teams, mentor foresters and support field operations
Contribute to strategic work planning and identify emerging forestry issues
Serve as acting Supervisory Forester when needed

Required expertise

Silviculture and forest management best practices
Wildfire mitigation and community protection strategies
Timber harvest operations and contract oversight
Insect and disease identification and response
Navigating partnerships, collaboratives and stakeholder relationships
CSFS and area-level operational planning

Why choose the Colorado State Forest Service?

We not only value our forests; we also value our employees. Joining our team comes with incredible benefits:

Identity wear stipend: Elevate your professional image with a stipend for personalized wear.
Work-life harmony: Achieve optimal work-life integration through tailored and flexible scheduling options.
Connectivity privilege: Stay seamlessly connected with either a cellphone allowance or a provided work cell.
Premium healthcare benefits: Prioritize your well-being with access to exclusive and comprehensive healthcare benefits.
Time-off: Recharge with 15 days of sick leave and 24 days of annual leave earned each year.
Retirement plan: Secure your financial future with a remarkable 12% employer contribution to your retirement plan.
Assistance program: Access premium well-being resources through our Employee Assistance Program.
Professional development: Enhance your skills through personalized professional training opportunities facilitated by CSU.
Educational empowerment: Receive 9 hours of education credits annually through CSU.
Tuition privileges for family: Secure your family’s future with 50% off tuition for children, partner and spouse.
Community leadership initiative: Give back to your community with paid administrative leave dedicated to volunteering.

For full consideration, applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. MST on Dec. 8, 2025. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Supervisory forester - 2 positions

Supervisory forester – hiring TWO positions!

Lead Colorado’s forestry efforts as a supervisory forester – hiring for TWO locations!

The Colorado State Forest Service is seeking a driven Supervisory Forester to oversee and manage critical forestry programs and projects. This role includes direct oversight of planning, program execution, and day-to-day operations, with policy-level decisions elevated to senior leadership as needed.

As a member of the Area Operations Team, the Supervisory Forester collaborates to allocate resources, ensure cohesive program delivery, and achieve agency goals on time and within budget. This position also serves as a liaison to related functional divisions and program areas, helping to implement agency priorities at the field level. Apply Now!

Key responsibilities

Lead one primary functional area (Science & Data, Communications & Communities, or Forest Planning & Implementation) and support others as needed.
Supervise and coach staff, manage workloads, and support professional development.
Oversee project and program implementation, ensuring alignment with CSFS goals and policies.
Manage project budgets (ranging from $5,000–$1 million), contracts, grants, and agreements.
Coordinate with partners, local officials, landowners, and Area leadership to deliver cohesive, effective program work.
Support annual work planning, record-keeping, and reporting for your Field Office and Area Operations Team.

Minimum qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resources, or related field
Four years of professional forestry experience
Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain)

Preferred qualifications

Experience supervising staff and leading forestry projects
Strong skills in partnership-building, public engagement, budgeting, and grant/contract management
Knowledge of western U.S. forest management practices and field forestry techniques
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, ArcGIS, GPS, and geospatial tools
Professional certifications such as SAF Certified Forester or ISA Certified Arborist

Salary: $65,000 – $70,000 (based on experience)

Location: Hiring for two positions: Golden and Steamboat Springs
*Please specify in your cover letter which location you are interested in.

Why choose the Colorado State Forest Service?

We not only value our forests; we also value our employees. Joining our team comes with incredible benefits:

Identity wear stipend: Elevate your professional image with a stipend for personalized wear.
Work-life harmony: Achieve optimal work-life integration through tailored and flexible scheduling options.
Connectivity privilege: Stay seamlessly connected with either a cell phone allowance or a provided work cell.
Premium healthcare benefits: Prioritize your well-being with access to exclusive and comprehensive healthcare benefits.
Time-off: Recharge with 15 days of sick leave and 24 days of annual leave earned each year.
Retirement plan: Secure your financial future with a remarkable 12% employer contribution to your retirement plan.
Assistance program: Access premium well-being resources through our Employee Assistance Program.
Professional development: Enhance your skills through personalized professional training opportunities facilitated by CSU.
Educational empowerment: Receive 9 hours of education credits annually through CSU.
Tuition privileges for family: Secure your family’s future with 50% off tuition for children, partner, and spouse.
Community leadership initiative: Give back to your community with paid administrative leave dedicated to volunteering.

For full consideration, applications must be received no later than 11:59pm MST on Dec. 31, 2025. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Jan. 5, 2026: Colorado State University is transitioning to a new hiring system. Thank you for your patience while we navigate the new process, and be sure to check back soon for new postings and links to ongoing recruitments.

Ongoing recruitment postings are used to gather applications for multiple job openings in multiple parts of the state. They remain open, collecting applicants, on the CSU Jobs website for three, six or 12 months. At the end of this period, current applications are deactivated and applicants are invited to reapply to the next ongoing recruitment cycle if applicable.

Once an applicant has applied to an Ongoing Recruitment posting, their application materials will be reviewed every time a new vacancy becomes available. CSFS positions can and may be filled year-round. For open positions, applicants should mark the area(s) of Colorado where they’re willing to work.

If at any time you would like to update your information or remove yourself from the pool, please contact Tina Little at [email protected] or (970) 491-8662 so she can reactivate your application or remove you.

Part-time employment

Admin Assistant II

Admin Assistant II (Part-time)

Support Colorado’s forest stewardship – join us as a part-time administrative assistant in Woodland Park!

Do you enjoy helping others, keeping operations running smoothly, and supporting meaningful conservation work? The Colorado State Forest Service is seeking a part-time administrative assistant to support our Woodland Park Field Office and its important programs. Apply now!

Location: Woodland Park

Schedule: Part-time position

Salary: $1660.50 – $1992.50 Monthly (Part-time 20 hours per week)

In this role, you’ll…

Serve as the friendly and professional first point of contact for walk-in visitors and phone calls
Support staff working in forest management programs, seedling tree plantings and forest agriculture
Assist with public relations, document creation/editing and data management
Coordinate meeting logistics and take minutes as needed
Process mail, payments and financial transactions
Work with vendors—including coordinating services, processing payments and accepting payments
Maintain and operate office equipment
Provide administrative and accounting support as assigned by the Southeast Area Accounting Technician II and Area Manager

Why you’ll love this role

Be part of a mission-driven team serving Colorado’s forests and communities
Support field staff and conservation programs that make a real impact
Enjoy a mix of administrative, customer service and behind-the-scenes support work
Help keep a small, dedicated office running efficiently and effectively

Position details

Part-time appointment as a Colorado State University employee
Pre-employment background check required
Primarily office-based with regular public interaction
Standard business hours with occasional flexibility as needed

Why choose the Colorado State Forest Service?

We not only value our forests; we also value our employees. Joining our team comes with incredible benefits:

Identity wear stipend: Elevate your professional image with a stipend for personalized wear.
Work-life harmony: Achieve optimal work-life integration through tailored and flexible scheduling options.
Premium healthcare benefits: Prioritize your well-being with access to exclusive and comprehensive healthcare benefits.
Generous leave package: Recharge with a comprehensive sick leave and annual leave benefit.
Retirement plan: Secure your financial future with a remarkable retirement plan through PERA Colorado.
Assistance program: Access premium well-being resources through our Employee Assistance Program.
Professional development: Enhance your skills through personalized professional training opportunities facilitated by CSU.
Educational empowerment: Receive 5 education credits annually through CSU.
Tuition privileges for family: Secure your family’s future with 50% off tuition for children, partner and spouse.
Community leadership initiative: Give back to your community with paid administrative leave dedicated to volunteering.

For full consideration, applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. MST on December 29, 2025. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

AmeriCorps positions

The CSFS has ongoing collaborations with AmeriCorps partners, which have allowed us to establish AmeriCorps positions throughout Colorado. These are full-time community service positions, and each AmeriCorps member is directly supervised by a CSFS employee. Members each receive a bi-weekly allowance and, upon completion of the service term, will receive an education award that can be used for current educational expenses or student loans. A full-service term requires 1,700 hours to be completed over the course of about a year.

Coming in January 2026: AmeriCorps positions in Alamosa, Cañon City, Fort Collins and Leadville

Specific duties will vary by field office, and primary duties may include the following:

Forest treatment monitoring
Lay out and administer forest treatments such as timber sales or reducing hazardous fuels.
Urban forestry, tree planting, forestry education and community engagement
Expanding drone use within forestry
Winter snow measurements

Memberships will vary in length from a summer field season to a full year, thereby increasing the potential for current and former students to seek these opportunities. Anticipated start time is early February for full-time memberships and late May for quarter-time (3-4 months) members.

Alamosa: 1 full-time
Cañon City: 1 full-time
Fort Collins: 1 full-time, 1 quarter-time
Leadville: 1 three-quarter time

The CSFS is seeking early-career natural resource professionals with backgrounds in biology, forestry, natural resources, human dimensions, ecology and other related disciplines. For full-time positions, preferred candidates have recently graduated and are hungry to contribute to the management of private and public lands across Colorado. Preferred quarter-time applicants are current students looking for summer opportunities that will benefit their educational journey. Applicants should be prepared to provide a cover letter, resume and references.

Minimum requirements for all AmeriCorps positions

18 years of age
High school diploma or G.E.D.
Citizen, national or lawful permanent resident of the U.S.
Pass a criminal background check

Contact Kristen Switzer for more information.

Internships

The CSFS offers paid undergraduate internship opportunities each summer that run from May to August. The Warner College of Natural Resources Dean’s Office at Colorado State University has partnered with the CSFS to fund certain internship opportunities, which are only available to WCNR students. All other internships are available to all Colorado undergraduate students.

The application period for 2026 internships closes Feb. 6, 2026. Contact Kristen Switzer for more information about CSFS internships.

Internship opportunities for ALL Colorado undergraduate students

**Jan. 5, 2026: Colorado State University is transitioning to a new hiring system. Thank you for your patience while we navigate the new process, and be sure to check back soon for new links to submit your applications.

Alamosa Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Alamosa Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Alamosa Field Office (Alamosa, CO)

SUPERVISOR: Sam Scavo, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through Aug. 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500708T

Land acknowledgement

Colorado State University acknowledges, with respect, that the land we are on today is the traditional and ancestral homelands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Ute Nations and peoples. Read the rest of the Colorado State University Land Acknowledgement on the CSU website.

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. Low-cost housing options with partner organizations include the USFS Bunkhouse in South Fork and Adams State University in Alamosa.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Alamosa Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Alamosa Field Office in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Forester Sam Scavo. The Alamosa Field Office is one of 18 field offices in Colorado, serving the San Luis Valley, including Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, Rio Grande and Saguache counties. The office is staffed by three foresters and a supervisory forester of Communications and Communities. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants who demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major
Good written and oral communications
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management
Experience with and/or exposure to wildland fire behavior and management
S130/S190 certification
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.)
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass and GPS units
Experience with ArcGIS and FieldMaps

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assist with inventory, layout and administration of Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) small sales and projects on the Rio Grande National Forest and San Luis Valley BLM GNA projects.
Assist with planning and layout of State Trust Land and State Wildlife Area big game habitat management projects.
Data acquisition and management.
Utilize FieldMaps to map and assess wildfire risk on developed and undeveloped lots.
Create maps in ArcGIS Pro using data collected in the field.
Public interaction with landowners on factors affecting defensible space and forest health.
Assist adjacent field offices with project work as necessary.
Assist Alamosa Field Office staff with ongoing project layout and implementation.
The proposed internship is predominantly field-based but may have office time associated with it. Office opportunities may include GIS mapping, partner meetings, and contract and scope of work development.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to First Aid/CPR Certification, U.S. Forest Service insect and disease training, collaborations with nearby CSFS field offices, CO Wildland Fire and Incident Management Academy, Assessing Structure Ignition Potential Training (ASIP) and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026, through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500708T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
- The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Alamosa Field Office Intern.
- Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Communications and Communities intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Communications and Communities Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: State Office, Communications and Communities Division (Fort Collins)

SUPERVISOR: Danielle Ardrey, Conservation and Youth Education Specialist

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026, through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500709T

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The CSFS partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities.” Student interns prepare two written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Communications and Communities Intern. This intern will be based out of the Communications and Communities Division at the CSFS State Office in Fort Collins and is directly supervised by Danielle Ardrey (Conservation and Youth Education Specialist). This intern will also work occasionally out of the CSFS Urban and Community Forestry Hub at the CSU Spur campus in Denver. The Communications and Communities Division is staffed by 10+ employees working communications, statewide outreach efforts, conservation education, youth education and career exploration, and urban and community forestry. The main focus of this internship will be education and outreach, with opportunities to learn from and support other programs within the division, such as Urban and Community Forestry and Communications.

We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institute of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry, natural resource, or environmental education fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Skill in engaging diverse audiences and effectively conveying information
Experience planning, setting up, and managing outreach booths or similar public engagement at events, festivals, or community gatherings
Experience delivering education programs to varied age groups
Basic understanding of trees and forests in western U.S.
Experience and/or coursework in tree identification
Demonstrated ability to use email and other digital communication methods effectively

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Ability and willingness to work long hours with occasional evening and weekend duties (work based on a 40-hour work week).
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Education and Outreach
- Host outreach booths at events and festivals aligned with CSFS mission
- Lead forest education activities with support from Project Learning Tree materials and Smokey Bear (e.g., second Saturdays with CSU Spur in Denver)
- Deliver public educational resources to promote wildfire readiness and defensible space (e.g., Live Wildfire Ready materials)
- Promote youth natural resource career exploration with activities from Project Learning Tree
- Mentor high school students interested in environmental education and natural resources
- Support Project Learning Tree professional development events- material distribution, logistic coordination, event marketing, data tabulation, content development and delivery
- Review and develop education and outreach materials and kits
Urban and Community Forestry
- City tree Inventories
- Community forestry projects with our UCF Hub at CSU Spur (e.g., planting, pruning, etc.)
Communications
- Social media projects
- Communications content creation
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, Project Learning Tree trainings, conferences and trainings offered through the Colorado Science Educator’s Network, conferences and trainings offered through the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500709T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Communications and Communities Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Durango Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Durango Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Durango Field Office (Durango)

SUPERVISOR: Josh Braun, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 18, 2026 through June 26, 2026 (6 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500710T

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The CSFS partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Durango Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Durango Field Office in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Josh Braun (Forester). The Durango Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and is staffed by four full-time foresters, a Supervisory Forester, a statewide marketing & utilization forester, four inventory foresters responsible for conducting the Forest Inventory and Analysis Program in southwestern Colorado, and an administrative assistant. The Durango Field Office services 5 counties in SW Colorado including La Plata, Archuleta, Montezuma, Dolore, and San Juan counties. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Preference is given to students in a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips to CSFS field offices, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assisting with and aiding in the expansion and productivity of:
- Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) forestry projects with the U.S. Forest Service and National Forest Foundation to treat insect and disease infected trees, reduce hazardous fuels, and other activities to improve and restore forest and watershed health, including wildlife habitat.
- Inventory, boundary layout, and mapping for project implementation and forest management plans.
- Other duties, including sick tree calls, wildfire mitigation, and urban and community forestry.
Virtual and in-person meetings with local and federal partners, collaboratives, and private landowners.
Learn about ponderosa pine, pinon-juniper, and mixed-conifer forest management techniques through exposure in the field, as well as reviewing and participating in written forest management plans (FMPs).
Learn through FMPs about wildlife habitat improvement, endangered species identification, wetland delineation and hydrology, soil types, and Best Management Practices (BMPs).
Set up forest inventories using ArcGIS, Avenza, and Excel.
Conduct forest inventories using laser range finders, tablets, D-tape, clinometer, GPS, increment borer, and other assessment tools and techniques.
Data analysis using Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS).
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, basic wildland fire fighting training, forestry insect and disease identification training, and other natural resource management networking opportunities.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026 either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 18, 2026 through June 26, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500710T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Durango Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Forest Legacy Program intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Forest Legacy Program Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Northeast Area, CSU SPUR Campus (Denver)

SUPERVISOR: Katie Rose Levin, Forest Legacy Program Specialist

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500711T

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The position title of this internship is CSFS Forest Legacy Program Internship. This intern will be based out of the CSU SPUR Campus (Denver, CO) in the CSFS Northeast Area and is directly supervised by Katie Rose Levin (Forest Legacy Program Specialist). The Forest Legacy Program (FLP) conserves environmentally, economically and socially important forests through land acquisition or the establishment of conservation easements. FLP also maintains GIS databases of participating properties, and performs annual inspections to ensure successful forest management. The intern will be involved in a range of tasks and projects associated with the summer monitoring season, including working in ArcGIS Pro to digitize management areas and infrastructure, perform on the ground verification of maps, visit sites to inspect forest management, and other tasks as assigned.

We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in GIS, forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major, preferably with a GIS component
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability to walk long distances (over 6 miles a day) over rough terrain at high elevation carrying packs and equipment
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-4 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Data digitization and management
- Intern will work collaboratively with supervisor using ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS online to translate paper maps, deeds and aerial photographs into digital layers. Intern will then help field verify the digital layers on various FLP properties across the state
- Intern will analyze maps and layers to ensure compliance with FLP documents
FLP compliance and management
- Intern will travel to sites to ensure compliance with annual forest management plans and conservation easements
- Intern will help promote FLP projects and work with various groups on translating materials to new and important audiences
Interaction with landowners and other CSFS employees
- Intern will travel all over the state and may be required to meet with various group collaboratives, private landowners and other CSFS employees to guide them through the monitoring process. In addition to their supervisor, interns may be asked to engage with others as part of monitoring and verification while in the field, and may need to contact landowners to gain access to certain properties.
Travel
- This position will require extended travel, usually 6 weeks of the internship. Hotel rooms, campsites and meals will be paid for during travel. Interns will return to CSU SPUR by the end of each week
- Further we may switch to car camping for certain projects, especially if there are no reasonably-priced hotels close to our work sites. This will be dependent on projects selected for monitoring, but camping is something that we may do occasionally throughout the summer. There may be one trip which requires backpacking into a site.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500711T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Forest Legacy Program Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Grand Junction Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Grand Junction Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Northwest Area, Grand Junction Field Office (Grand Junction)

SUPERVISOR: Hallie Flynn, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500712T

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. Seasonal housing may be available at the CSU Western Research Campus bunkhouse. Please indicate if you desire to be considered for a room. Note that consideration does not guarantee a room will be available.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Grand Junction Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Grand Junction Field Office (Grand Junction, CO) in the CSFS Northwest Area and is directly supervised by Hallie Flynn (Forester). The Grand Junction Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and serves Delta and Mesa counties. The office is staffed by a Forester which works closely with the Two Rivers Wildfire Coalition and CSFS staff from other offices and divisions. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and motivated. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.
Basic experience with ArcGIS Pro

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to strenuous outdoor working environments, long days in the field and driving, steep uneven terrain, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, long pants, long sleeve shirts, rain gear, and other personal items related to hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Intern will serve as a field technician supporting multiple forestry and fuels reduction initiatives in Mesa County, including spruce-fir timber sales, defensible space projects, and mastication operations. Intern will begin by shadowing the forester during inspections and gradually transition to performing regular field inspections independently. Regular check-ins with the direct supervisor will ensure quality assurance and provide opportunities for clarification and feedback. Primary duties include:
- Review project documentation: Examine contract scopes of work and specifications to understand treatment objectives and performance standards.
- Conduct field inspections: Evaluate contractor work for compliance with project specifications, focusing on treatment quality and adherence to safety protocols.
- Document field activities: Capture photographs, take detailed notes, and collect GPS data to record contractor performance and treatment progress.
- Report findings: Provide regular updates to the direct supervisor, highlighting contractor performance, challenges, and any corrective actions needed.
Assist with:
- Timber sale preparation: Support the Grand Junction Forester in preparing GNA and Private Lands timber sales. Tasks include reconnaissance of sale areas, GPS mapping and boundary marking, and timber cruising using Mobile Map software.
- Wildfire Risk Assessments: Collaborate with the Executive Director of the Two Rivers Wildfire Coalition to conduct Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) and defensible space assessments. The intern will use a rapid assessment tool to evaluate risk and assist with treatment layout.
Office duties may include field equipment maintenance, finalizing project inspection reports, analyzing cruise data, creating maps using GIS, literature searches and professional development related to project scopes, data management, and more.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, safety orientation for field work, Assessing Structure Ignition Potential training, S-212 or other chainsaw training, ATV/UTV Safety Training, Field Learning Opportunities, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026 either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500712T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Grand Junction Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

La Veta Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS La Veta Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southeast Area, La Veta Field Office (La Veta)

SUPERVISOR: Ashley Selee, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500713T

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. The USFS has housing available for an affordable stipend.

The position title of this internship is CSFS La Veta Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the La Veta Field Office (La Veta, CO) in the CSFS Southeast Area and is directly supervised by Ashley Selee (Forester). This office serves Huerfano and Las Animas counties and is staffed by the Southeast Area Manager, Supervisory Forester, Lead Project Forester, and Forester. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications, public speaking experience.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assist with wide range of programs within the CSFS agency, including private and public landowner projects, including:
- Project layout assistance (timber/boundary marking)
- Shadowing project administration
- Timber cruising
- Grant administration
- Landowner property walkthroughs
- Insect and disease assessments
- Hands-on work with potential slash piling, chipping, and other field activities as assigned
Office work will include:
- Shadowing all levels of programmatic functions
- Assisting in data processing and entry
- Management recommendation development
- Spatial data work and GeoTracks recording
- Landowner and public outreach
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, chainsaw training, Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) training, forest measurements, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026 either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500713T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS La Veta Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Salida Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Salida Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Salida Field Office (Salida)

SUPERVISOR: Kellie Solis, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

CSU Job Posting: 202500714T

Land acknowledgement

Colorado State University acknowledges, with respect, that the land we are on today is the traditional and ancestral homelands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne and Ute Nations and peoples. Read the rest of the Colorado State University Land Acknowledgement on the CSU website.

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. There may be dorm-style housing available through Colorado Firecamp that is significantly cheaper than other options.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Salida Field Office Internship. This intern will be based out of the Salida Field Office (Salida, CO) in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Kellie Solis (Forester). The Salida Field Office is one of 18 field offices of the CSFS, and serves Lake and Chaffee counties. The CSFS office in Leadville is a satellite office of the Salida Field Office. This office is staffed by three Foresters, two Lead Foresters, a Supervisory Forester, a Seasonal Forester, an Accounting Technician, and the Southwest Area Manager. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Complete planning steps for the RCPP program, including:
- Attend initial site visits with private landowners to gauge their interest and offer treatment options.
- Develop maps in ArcPro for the inventory.
- Collect inventory data using tools such as a compass, laser range finder, tablet, diameter tape, clinometer, increment borer, and calipers.
- Data acquisition and management in Excel, Access and FVS (Forest Vegetation Simulator).
- Write a forest management plan using the condensed RCPP template.
- Paint trees for removal where necessary (i.e. ponderosa pine stand).
- Lay out unit boundaries for harvest.
Other anticipated tasks:
- Attend weekly and monthly staff calls, as well as bi-weekly and monthly calls with partners in the area such as NFF, USFS, and NRCS.
- Utilize GPS, tablets and phones to map and rate wildfire risk on occupied lots.
- Public interaction with landowners on factors affecting Home Ignition Zone by modifying the Defensible Space (≥100 ft around a home or building that has been treated to lower the fire risk).
- Assist adjacent field offices with project work.
- Attend monthly Tree Board meetings.
- Assist with projects other than RCPP (site visits, layout, administration).
- Assist with Lake County projects. This will introduce interns to forest management in lodgepole pine stands that are not as widespread in Chaffee County.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, U.S. Forest Service training for identifying forest insects and disease, Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) training, S-130/190 classes, S-212, chipper operation experience, ATV/UTV training, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026 either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, through the CSU Job Search Portal using the CSU Job Posting number 202500714T. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Salida Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Internship opportunities for Warner College of Natural Resurces undergraduate students

Alamosa Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Alamosa Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Alamosa Field Office (Alamosa)

SUPERVISOR: Sam Scavo, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 pm MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10512716

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The position title of this internship is CSFS Alamosa Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Alamosa Field Office in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Sam Scavo (Forester). The Alamosa Field Office is one of 18 field offices in Colorado, serving the San Luis Valley, including Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, Rio Grande, and Saguache counties. The office is staffed by three Foresters and a Supervisory Forester of Communications and Communities. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience with and/or exposure to wildland fire behavior and management.
- S130/S190 certification
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.
Experience with ArcGIS and FieldMaps.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assist with inventory, layout and administration of Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) small sales and projects on the Rio Grande National Forest and San Luis Valley BLM GNA projects.
Assist with planning and layout of State Trust Land and State Wildlife Area big game habitat management projects.
Data acquisition and management.
Utilize FieldMaps to map and assess wildfire risk on developed and undeveloped lots.
Create maps in ArcGIS Pro using data collected in the field.
Public interaction with landowners on factors affecting defensible space and forest health.
Assist adjacent field offices with project work as necessary.
Assist Alamosa Field Office staff with ongoing project layout & implementation.
The proposed internship is predominantly field-based but may have office time associated with it. Office opportunities may include GIS mapping, partner meetings, and contract and scope of work development.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, U.S. Forest Service insect and disease training, collaborations with nearby CSFS field offices, CO Wildland Fire & Incident Management Academy, Assessing Structure Ignition Potential Training (ASIP), and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10512716. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Alamosa Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Communications and Communities intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Communications and Communities intern

LOCATION: State Office, Communications and Communities Division (Fort Collins)

SUPERVISOR: Danielle Ardrey, Conservation and Youth Education Specialist

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10512871

Land acknowledgement

Overview

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry, natural resource, or environmental education fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Skill in engaging diverse audiences and effectively conveying information
Experience planning, setting up, and managing outreach booths or similar public engagement at events, festivals, or community gatherings
Experience delivering education programs to varied age groups
Basic understanding of trees and forests in western U.S.
Experience and/or coursework in tree identification
Demonstrated ability to use email and other digital communication methods effectively

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Ability and willingness to work long hours with occasional evening and weekend duties (work based on a 40-hour work week).
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Education and Outreach
- Host outreach booths at events and festivals aligned with CSFS mission
- Lead forest education activities with support from Project Learning Tree materials and Smokey Bear (e.g.- second Saturdays with CSU Spur in Denver)
- Deliver public educational resources to promote wildfire readiness and defensible space (e.g. – Live Wildfire Ready materials)
- Promote youth natural resource career exploration with activities from Project Learning Tree
- Mentor high school students interested in environmental education and natural resources
- Support Project Learning Tree professional development events- material distribution, logistic coordination, event marketing, data tabulation, content development and delivery
- Review and develop education and outreach materials and kits
Urban and Community Forestry
- City tree inventories
- Community forestry projects with our UCF Hub at CSU Spur (e.g., planting, pruning, etc.)
Communications
- Social media projects
- Communications content creation
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, Project Learning Tree trainings, conferences and trainings offered through the Colorado Science Educator’s Network, conferences and trainings offered through the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10512871. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Communications and Communities Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Durango Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Durango Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Durango Field Office (Durango)

SUPERVISOR: Josh Braun, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 18, 2026 through June 26, 2026 (6 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10512929

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities.” Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Durango Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Durango Field Office in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Josh Braun (Forester). The Durango Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and is staffed by four full-time foresters, a Supervisory Forester, a statewide marketing & utilization forester, four inventory foresters responsible for conducting the Forest Inventory and Analysis Program in southwestern Colorado, and an administrative assistant. The Durango Field Office services 5 counties in SW Colorado including La Plata, Archuleta, Montezuma, Dolores, and San Juan Counties. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Preference is given to students in a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips to CSFS field offices, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assisting with and aiding in the expansion and productivity of:
- Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) forestry projects with the U.S. Forest Service and National Forest Foundation to treat insect and disease infected trees, reduce hazardous fuels, and other activities to improve and restore forest and watershed health, including wildlife habitat.
- Inventory, boundary layout, and mapping for project implementation and forest management plans.
- Other duties, including sick tree calls, wildfire mitigation, and urban and community forestry.
Virtual and in-person meetings with local and federal partners, collaboratives, and private landowners.
Learn about ponderosa pine, pinon-juniper, and mixed-conifer forest management techniques through exposure in the field, as well as reviewing and participating in written forest management plans (FMPs).
Learn through FMPs about wildlife habitat improvement, endangered species identification, wetland delineation and hydrology, soil types, and Best Management Practices (BMPs).
Set up forest inventories using ArcGIS, Avenza, and Excel.
Conduct forest inventories using laser range finders, tablets, D-tape, clinometer, GPS, increment borer, and other assessment tools and techniques.
Data analysis using Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS).
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, basic wildland fire fighting training, forestry insect and disease identification training, and other natural resource management networking opportunities.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 18, 2026 through June 26, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10512929. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Durango Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Forest Legacy Program intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Forest Legacy Program Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Northeast Area, CSU SPUR Campus (Denver)

SUPERVISOR: Katie Rose Levin, Forest Legacy Program Specialist

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513018

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The position title of this internship is CSFS Forest Legacy Program Internship. This intern will be based out of the CSU SPUR Campus (Denver, CO) in the CSFS Northeast Area and is directly supervised by Katie Rose Levin (Forest Legacy Program Specialist). The Forest Legacy Program (FLP) conserves environmentally, economically and socially important forests through land acquisition or the establishment of conservation easements. FLP also maintains GIS databases of participating properties, and performs annual inspections to ensure successful forest management. The intern will be involved in a range of tasks and projects associated with the summer monitoring season, including working in ArcGIS Pro to digitize management areas and infrastructure, perform on the ground verification of maps, visit sites to inspect forest management, and other tasks as assigned.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in GIS, forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major, preferably with a GIS component
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability to walk long distances (over 6 miles a day) over rough terrain at high elevation carrying packs and equipment
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-4 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Data digitization and management:
- Intern will work collaboratively with supervisor using ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS online to translate paper maps, deeds and aerial photographs into digital layers. Intern will then help field verify the digital layers on various FLP properties across the state
- Intern will analyze maps and layers to ensure compliance with FLP documents
FLP compliance and management
- Intern will travel to sites to ensure compliance with annual forest management plans and conservation easements
- Intern will help promote FLP projects and work with various groups on translating materials to new and important audiences
Interaction with landowners and other CSFS employees
- Intern will travel all over the state and may be required to meet with various group collaboratives, private landowners and other CSFS employees to guide them through the monitoring process. In addition to their supervisor, interns may be asked to engage with others as part of monitoring and verification while in the field, and may need to contact landowners to gain access to certain properties.
Travel
- This position will require extended travel, usually 6 weeks of the internship. Hotel rooms, campsites and meals will be paid for during travel. Interns will return to CSU SPUR by the end of each week
- Further we may switch to car camping for certain projects, especially if there are no reasonably-priced hotels close to our work sites. This will be dependent on projects selected for monitoring, but camping is something that we may do occasionally throughout the summer. There may be one trip which requires backpacking into a site.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513018. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Forest Legacy Program Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Forest Monitoring Program intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Forest Monitoring Program Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: CSFS State Office, Science and Data Division, Fort Collins

SUPERVISOR: Tori Hunter, Forest Monitoring Program Measurement Specialist

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513165

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities.” Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Forest Monitoring Program Intern. This intern will be based out of the Forest Monitoring Program at the CSFS State Office in Fort Collins, CO and is directly supervised by Tori Hunter (Forest Monitoring Program Measurement Specialist). The Forest Monitoring Program is staffed with 4 full-time employees with a range of field-based monitoring experience, silviculture knowledge, and experience in forest health projects. The intern in this position will be involved in field data collection for wildfire risk mitigation and forest health projects. The intern will function as 1 of 4 field technicians. Our normal fieldwork staffing will be 2 crews of 3 people each. Each crew will consist of 2 field technicians and a full-time monitoring employee acting as a crew leader. Crew compositions will vary throughout the summer. Interns will also help with data entry and management and have opportunities to interact with landowners. Intern training opportunities include but are not limited to: Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) training, Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) training, Colorado Forest Restoration Institute (CFRI) training, in-house resume writing, Wilderness First Aid certification, and ESRI/in-house ArcGIS training.

The forest monitoring program is part of the Science and Data Division within the Colorado State Forest Service. We primarily monitor projects associated with the Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation (FRWRM) grant program, which represents a substantial commitment to private lands management in Colorado, with a yearly allocation of 7 million dollars to forest management and capacity building for private lands in the state. Our field monitoring protocol assesses over and understory stand structure, fuel loading, canopy cover, ground cover and other ocular estimates of forest understory structure pre and post-treatment, to assess how stated project goals and objectives are met through this reimbursement program. The monitoring program represents adaptive management in Colorado, wherein we learn from what we are doing to enable continual checks on our assumptions, as well as improve efficacy of treatments in the future. This program is relatively new to the CSFS, but aims to provide young career professionals leadership and field-work experience to help develop the next cohort of natural resource professionals.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, clinometer, , hypsometer, etc.). Completion of F230 (Forestry Field Measurements) is especially preferred.
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.
Experience with ocular vegetation cover estimates.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student will be exposed to poisonous plants, the full range of Colorado weather conditions, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 4-8 day-long trips, requiring stays in hotels and car camping. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).
Intern will typically travel for 4 or 8 day hitches, depending on the project location, and typically will camp, but hotel stays are likely early in the season before summer is in full-swing.
Typically, interns work 10-hour days, 40 hours a week, providing them mostly 3 day weekends on 4-day hitches. On 8-day hitches, interns will have 6 days off.
Interns will be asked to carry a large amount of gear while working in the field, but all measurement gear will be provided and they are not expected to bring their own. Interns will need to supply the typical items needed to be happy and healthy in the woods (rain gear, water bottles, gloves, hiking boots, etc.).
For car camping, interns will be responsible for most of their gear that they already own, but extra gear may be provided in instances where interns do not have certain items (e.g. tents, etc.).
- Generally for car camping, interns may choose to participate in “group dinners” or interns can choose to make their own meals.
- When traveling, interns will receive per diems. Per diem amounts are independent of the amount actually spent on food, so this usually results in extra funds to support the purchase of personal gear.
- The monitoring program has general kitchenware for camping, along with stoves and fuel.
- The monitoring program car camps usually in designated campgrounds or sometimes in dispersed camping areas, so backpacking is not required for any monitoring projects.

Duties and responsibilities

Field Data Collection: The intern will be responsible largely for field data collection. This will include implementing the FRWRM Monitoring protocol which includes the following measurements:
- Tree height and diameter
- Tree species ID
- Tree crown base height
- Insect/disease presence and relative severity
- Crown class and live crown ratio
- Brown’s fuels transects (1, 10, 100, 1000hr fuels)
- Litter and duff depth
- Regeneration spins for seedlings and saplings
- Transect establishment
- Ground cover
- Canopy cover
- Vegetative habit (relative cover of given functional types based on different strata)
- Fuel model identification
- Plot photos
Implement field data collection protocol for both pre- and post-treatment areas that received money from the Forest Restoration and Wildlife Risk Mitigation (FRWRM) grant program.
Travel across the state to take part in assessing changes as a result of treatment and learn to identify how management projects do or do not meet stated objectives.
Use tablets and ESRI FieldMaps to navigate to field plots and record data within ESRI FieldMaps.
Possibly gain experience with serving as ground crew for drone flights, which includes setting up ground control points, linking a base station to the drone to correct its global positioning, serving as visual observers who communicate with the pilot via walkie-talkie or voice, and flying the drones themselves under supervision of a remote pilot in command who has a part 107 drone operator license.
Data management: data cleaning, QA/QC using Microsoft Excel.
Interactions with landowners and other CSFS staff/offices.
Use ArcGIS Pro, Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS), and other programs.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, Wilderness First Aid, drone flight time, Forest Vegetation Simulator training/experience, GIS training, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513165. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Forest Monitoring Program Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Grand Junction Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Grand Junction Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Northwest Area, Grand Junction Field Office (Grand Junction)

SUPERVISOR: Hallie Flynn, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513206

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. Seasonal housing may be available at the CSU Western Research Campus bunkhouse. Please indicate if you desire to be considered for a room. Note that consideration does not guarantee a room will be available.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Grand Junction Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Grand Junction Field Office (Grand Junction, CO) in the CSFS Northwest Area and is directly supervised by Hallie Flynn (Forester). The Grand Junction Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and serves Delta and Mesa counties. The office is staffed by a Forester which works closely with the Two Rivers Wildfire Coalition and CSFS staff from other offices and divisions. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and motivated. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.
Basic experience with ArcGIS Pro

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to strenuous outdoor working environments, long days in the field and driving, steep uneven terrain, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, long pants, long sleeve shirts, rain gear, , and other personal items related to hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Intern will serve as a field technician supporting multiple forestry and fuels reduction initiatives in Mesa County, including spruce-fir timber sales, defensible space projects, and mastication operations. Intern will begin by shadowing the forester during inspections and gradually transition to performing regular field inspections independently. Regular check-ins with the direct supervisor will ensure quality assurance and provide opportunities for clarification and feedback. Primary duties include:
- Review project documentation: Examine contract scopes of work and specifications to understand treatment objectives and performance standards.
- Conduct field inspections: Evaluate contractor work for compliance with project specifications, focusing on treatment quality and adherence to safety protocols.
- Document field activities: Capture photographs, take detailed notes, and collect GPS data to record contractor performance and treatment progress.
- Report findings: Provide regular updates to the direct supervisor, highlighting contractor performance, challenges, and any corrective actions needed.
Assist with:
- Timber sale preparation: Support the Grand Junction Forester in preparing GNA and Private Lands timber sales. Tasks include reconnaissance of sale areas, GPS mapping and boundary marking, and timber cruising using Mobile Map software.
- Wildfire Risk Assessments: Collaborate with the Executive Director of the Two Rivers Wildfire Coalition to conduct Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) and defensible space assessments. The intern will use a rapid assessment tool to evaluate risk and assist with treatment layout.
Office duties may include field equipment maintenance, finalizing project inspection reports, analyzing cruise data, creating maps using GIS, literature searches and professional development related to project scopes, data management, and more.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, safety orientation for field work, Assessing Structure Ignition Potential training, S-212 or other chainsaw training, ATV/UTV Safety Training, Field Learning Opportunities, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513206. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Grand Junction Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Gunnison Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Gunnison Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Gunnison Field Office (Gunnison)

SUPERVISOR: Dylan Eimer, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10519663

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. The Gunnison Field Office will be able to provide rustic living quarters in a camper trailer on Miller Ranch SWA at no cost to the intern. Restrooms, WiFi, and kitchen area are provided in the adjacent Miller Ranch House.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Gunnison Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Gunnison Field Office in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Dylan Eimer (Forester). The Gunnison Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS, and serves Gunnison and Hinsdale counties. The office is staffed by a Supervisory Forester, three Foresters, two Forest Inventory and Analysis Foresters, and one Forest Carbon Specialist. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants who demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, clinometer, increment borer, GPS, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, a compass, and GPS units.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation, such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
The Gunnison Field Office will be able to provide rustic living quarters in a camper trailer on Miller Ranch SWA at no cost to the intern. Restrooms, WiFi, and a kitchen area are provided in the adjacent Miller Ranch House.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting/stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assist with Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) projects – project layout, boundary tree marking/cut or leave tree marking, timber cruising, and project administration (contract compliance).
- Lost Canyon GNA Timber Sale
- Illinois Creek Stewardship Project
- Lottis Creek Stewardship Project
- Taylor Park-Tincup Fuels Mitigation Project Phase 2
- Gray Ranch BLM GNA Fuels Mitigation Project
Assist with private land fuels mitigation and home ignition zone (HIZ) projects throughout the Gunnison basin.
Increase capacity of field office for data collection, mapping, project layout, and tree painting on Ute Mountain Ute Tribal lands projects.
Layout and project administration on various projects:
- Red Mountain Ranch FRWRM grant-funded project.
- Slate River Stewardship & Nemanic Timber Sale
- Western Bark Beetle Projects
Assist with Forest, Inventory, and Analysis (FIA) work and learn precise data collection methods.
Use and articulate Avenza GPS Maps for field work
Data collection using forestry equipment (diameter tape, clinometer, increment borer, etc.)
Insect and Disease surveys and sick tree calls
Fire mitigation outreach and education
Create and design ArcGIS Pro maps for project work
Tree planting
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, ArcGIS trainings, Society of American Forester Convention and meetings, timber cruising training, Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) training, and more.
Basic facility maintenance (routine workshop & vehicle cleaning)
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10519663. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Gunnison Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

La Veta Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS La Veta Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southeast Area, La Veta Field Office (La Veta)

SUPERVISOR: Ashley Selee, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513627

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. The USFS has housing available for an affordable stipend.

The position title of this internship is CSFS La Veta Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the La Veta Field Office (La Veta, CO) in the CSFS Southeast Area and is directly supervised by Ashley Selee (Forester). This office serves Huerfano and Las Animas counties and is staffed by the Southeast Area Manager, Supervisory Forester, Lead Project Forester, and Forester. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications, public speaking experience.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assist with wide range of programs within the CSFS agency, including private and public landowner projects, including:
- Project layout assistance (timber/boundary marking)
- Shadowing project administration
- Timber cruising
- Grant administration
- Landowner property walkthroughs
- Insect and disease assessments
- Hands-on work with potential slash piling, chipping, and other field activities as assigned
Office work will include:
- Shadowing all levels of programmatic functions
- Assisting in data processing and entry
- Management recommendation development
- Spatial data work and GeoTracks recording
- Landowner and public outreach
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, chainsaw training, Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) training, forest measurements, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513627. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS La Veta Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Montrose Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Montrose Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Montrose Field Office (Montrose)

SUPERVISOR: Cooper Griffith, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10515930

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The position title of this internship is CSFS Montrose Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Montrose Field Office in the CSFS Southwest Area and is directly supervised by Cooper Griffith (Forester). The Montrose Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and serves Montrose, Ouray, and San Miguel counties. The office is staffed by a Supervisory Forester of Forest Planning and Implementation, a Lead Forester, and two Foresters. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to hike long distances.
Ability to drive pickup trucks on rough roads.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Field work for Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) timber sale, including cruising and marking timber The Montrose field office is prepping a large timber sale in the Black Mesa area. This will be the primary area of work, including cruising and marking timber.
Integrate timber cruise data into Forest Vegetation Simulator.
Create maps on ArcGIS Pro.
Attend site visits as needed, ranging in scale from a few acres to hundreds, covering all timber types in Southwestern Colorado.
Assist other foresters with projects as needed, including a Russian olive and tamarisk removal project in downtown Montrose, and several private land projects.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, Colorado Wildland Fire and Incident Management Academy courses, qualified cruiser training, wildfire ready home assessor training, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10515930. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Montrose Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Salida Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Salida Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southwest Area, Salida Field Office (Salida)

SUPERVISOR: Kellie Solis, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10515898

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. There may be dorm-style housing available through Colorado Firecamp that is significantly cheaper than other options.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree at a Colorado institution of higher education. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Pursuing a forestry or natural resource-related major.
Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Complete planning steps for the RCPP program, including:
- Attend initial site visits with private landowners to gauge their interest and offer treatment options.
- Develop maps in ArcPro for the inventory.
- Collect inventory data using tools such as a compass, laser range finder, tablet, diameter tape, clinometer, increment borer, and calipers.
- Data acquisition and management in Excel, Access and FVS (Forest Vegetation Simulator).
- Write a forest management plan using the condensed RCPP template.
- Paint trees for removal where necessary (i.e. ponderosa pine stand).
- Lay out unit boundaries for harvest.
Other anticipated tasks:
- Attend weekly and monthly staff calls, as well as bi-weekly and monthly calls with partners in the area such as NFF, USFS, and NRCS.
- Utilize GPS, tablets and phones to map and rate wildfire risk on occupied lots.
- Public interaction with landowners on factors affecting Home Ignition Zone by modifying the Defensible Space (≥100 ft around a home or building that has been treated to lower the fire risk).
- Assist adjacent field offices with project work.
- Attend monthly Tree Board meetings.
- Assist with projects other than RCPP (site visits, layout, administration).
- Assist with Lake County projects. This will introduce interns to forest management in lodgepole pine stands that are not as widespread in Chaffee County.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, U.S. Forest Service training for identifying forest insects and disease, Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) training, S-130/190 classes, S-212, chipper operation experience, ATV/UTV training, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10515898. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Salida Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Seedling Nursery intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Seedling Nursery Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: CSFS State Office, Seedling Nursery Program (Fort Collins)

SUPERVISOR: Cameron Taylor, Nursery Program Specialist

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513667

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The position title of this internship is CSFS Seedling Nursery Program Intern. This intern will be based out of the CSFS State Office (Fort Collins, CO) and is directly supervised by Cameron Taylor (Nursery Program Specialist). The Colorado State Forest Service Nursery grows and supplies affordable, locally adapted tree and shrub seedlings (containerized and bareroot) to support partnering agency and individual landowner conservation, reforestation, and restoration efforts across Colorado. Its mission is to promote healthy forests and sustainable land management through the production of high-quality plant materials and technical assistance to landowners and partners. Additionally, the CSFS Nursery provides no-cost seedlings and oversight in support of the CSU donor-funded Restoring Colorado’s Forests Fund (RCFF), to landowners who have lost forested acres due to natural disturbances, primarily wildfires. The CSFS Nursery is also anticipating the completion of our brand new facility in Spring 2026 and will be ramping up the production of our usual suite of native seedlings soon thereafter. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Excellent professional written and oral communication skills as it relates to program coordination and public outreach/education.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry, natural resources management, and/or ecological restoration (mainly post-fire) principles.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, forklifts, skidsteers, and/or UTVs/ATVs.
Ability to (or willingness) to navigate in varying, potentially offroad, road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying native trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience (or willingness to learn) navigating with app based digital maps, compass, and GPS units.
Basic understanding of GIS web-based applications and use of aforementioned field mapping tools.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels in support of varying CSFS divisions. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Assist in daily nursery operations (grading seedlings, weeding, watering, seeding, order prep)
Restoring Colorado’s Forest Fund (RCFF) coordination and support.
- Monitor inboxes, coordinate and respond to landowner applicant questions
- Coordinate and conduct site visits with awardees and prospective applicants of the program to monitor reforestation efforts and provide ongoing guidance
  - This includes use of digital maps (FieldMaps) to map out planted areas
- Develop outreach materials, in coordination with the CSFS C&C division, related to the promotion of the program for applicants and donors
- Deliver seedlings to other CSFS Field Offices across the state
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: General nursery operations, Forklift certification, GIS courses, SAF/SER Membership, local seed collection, non-profit engagement, First Aid/CPR and other NOLS Certifications,
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513667. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Seedling Nursery Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

State Forest Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS State Forest Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Northwest Area, State Forest Field Office (Gould)

SUPERVISOR(S): Blair Rynearson, State Forest Manager, Nolan Edler, Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513700

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The position title of this internship is CSFS State Forest Field Office. This intern will be based out of the State Forest Field Office (Gould, CO) in the CSFS Northwest Area and is directly supervised by Blair Rynearson (State Forest Manager). The State Forest Field Office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and is staffed by a State Forest Manager and two Foresters. The State Forest is about 71,000 acres and ranges in elevation from 8,000 to 12,900 feet on the top of Clark Peak. The office maintains an active timber program and works with external partners to implement cross-boundary forest management projects. In addition to commercial timber sales, the office also manages a variety of stewardship projects focusing on forest health, wildfire resilience, and wildlife habitat. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, prism, clinometer, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Dormitory-style housing and utilities are provided by the State Forest Field Office at the Colorado State Forest at no cost to the intern.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Treatment preparation and monitoring. Re/flagging boundaries (treatment, SMZ, etc), checking on contractors, post-treatment surveys, etc.
Projects:
- Michigan Ditch Phase 1 Fuel Removal Project
- Michigan Ditch Phase 2 COSWAP Project
- Conventional timber sales
- Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) Projects
- Miscellaneous treatments; mastication, thinning, etc.
Cruising, in relation to the projects listed above. As time allows, permanent staff will perform maintenance on CSFS facilities and interns would be expected to provide assistance.
Thinning, Fuels Reduction, and Firewood processing. Removing hazardous fuels around CSFS facilities, cutting and splitting firewood for use in the houses & office boiler during the winter.
Maintaining & repairing hand tools, cruising equipment, chainsaws, and other miscellaneous equipment.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, timber cruising training, tree and plant identification training, basic insect and disease training, urban forestry training, plant identification and forest monitoring experience with Colorado Fire Restoration Initiative, harvesting systems training, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513700. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS State Forest Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Upper South Platte Partnership intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Upper South Platte Partnership Intern

LOCATION: Northeast Area, Upper South Platte Partnership (USPP) (Golden)

SUPERVISOR: Audrey Miles-Cherney, USPP Watershed Coordinator

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026, through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10537680

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) is a service and outreach agency of the Warner College of Natural Resources (WCNR). The CSFS provides technical forestry assistance, wildfire mitigation expertise, and outreach and education to help landowners and communities achieve their forest management goals. Our mission is to achieve stewardship of Colorado’s diverse forest environments for the benefit of present and future generations.
The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities.” Student interns prepare two written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Upper South Platte Partnership (USPP) Intern. This intern will be based out of the Golden Field Office in the CSFS Northeast Area and is directly supervised by Audrey Miles-Cherney (USPP Watershed Coordinator). This intern position will be asked to support work with USPP’s collaborative partners in any part of the USPP landscape and adjacent lands within the shared fireshed. The USPP covers nearly 1.2 million acres west/southwest of Denver and includes a landscape that crosses into the counties of Jefferson, Douglas, Park, Teller, and El Paso. USPP consists of about 20 active organizations and 45 individuals, including West Metro, Evergreen, Conifer, and Elk Creek fire protection districts, Stewardship West, Coalition for the Upper South Platte and other entities. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative and energetic with an interest in working on a variety of projects in coordination with USPP partnering entities who are focused on forest health, wildfire mitigation and drinking watershed protection. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants who demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Good written and oral communications.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience using forestry equipment (diameter tape, loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass and GPS units.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions. Prior S-130/190 training is helpful but not required.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, wildlife and other potential hazards during field work.
Field work will require the ability to hike on and off trails.
Laptops are provided for work use during the internship period and must be returned at the conclusion of employment. Computer-based work may be done remotely with supervisor approval.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to hiking and camping or working outdoors.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels or in a tent. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

The following are examples of potential work tasks depending on intern interests, experience, and available training opportunities:
- Mix of computer-based assignments and fieldwork is expected for all summer interns
- Vegetation monitoring following CO Forest Restoration Institute’s protocols
- Assist wildland fire mitigation specialists with fuels moisture sampling and/or defensible space home assessments and inspections
- Assist volunteer ambassador programs in landowner/homeowner outreach efforts
- Assist mitigation specialists and other forestry professionals with community education efforts
- Assist forestry professionals with project layout as appropriate to skill level and training (i.e., flagging and marking boundaries and treatments, measuring forest metrics, tree/plant ID, field data collections such as slope, aspect, basal area factor, collecting monitoring photos at sample sites, supporting Forest Ag program tasks, etc.).
- Assisting with debris hauling and chipping, and/or slash piling for wildfire mitigation efforts.
- Participate in USPP meetings that overlap with the internship term; participate in event planning and logistics, set-up/clean-up, note taking, share out/report as appropriate to skill level and agenda topics, etc.
- Program data entry and file management to assist with program and grant reporting.
- Project database management and ArcGIS/mapping (as applicable to skill level)
- Photo/video documentation of field and training experiences
- Graphic design and editing of visual communication elements (if applicable to skill level/prior training, and interests)
- Website content development and editing (if applicable to interests and/or skills) including researching topics, writing blog post narratives, updating content as assigned.
- Develop professional and effective communication skills (verbally, written and/or visual digital formats); the intern will develop a project or provide a brief presentation or written report for USPP partnering entities at the end of the term. It may be on a research topic of interest and/or summarizing accomplishments achieved, skills developed, and/or knowledge gained.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, S-130/190, S-212, NFPA’s Assessing Structural Ignition Potential training, Four National Incident Command modules, and more. Specific training opportunities vary each year.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026 either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, CO or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026, through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10537680. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
- The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Upper South Platte Partnership intern.
- Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:
Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Woodland Park Field Office intern

POSITION TITLE: CSFS Woodland Park Field Office Intern (1 position)

LOCATION: Southeast Area, Woodland Park Field Office (Woodland Park)

SUPERVISOR: Samuel Mitchell, Lead Project Forester

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18 per hour

EMPLOYMENT DATES: May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (12 weeks + orientation days in May)

CLOSING DATE: Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026

Handshake Announcement #: 10513738

Land acknowledgement

Overview

The Colorado State Forest Service partnered with the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) in 2018 to develop the CSFS Internship Program that offers paid summer internships to undergraduate students. Intern positions provide students with in-depth learning and work experiences in natural resources. Internships include a 15-85% split between training for the student and hourly work for the CSFS, as defined below under “Duties and Responsibilities”. Student interns prepare 2 written documents throughout their internship period to advance professional writing skills and encourage self-reflection. They also receive one-on-one mentoring and evaluations from their CSFS supervisor(s). A small professional development stipend will be made available to support costs/fees associated with trainings, workshops, conferences, and other applicable opportunities during the internship period. A housing stipend will be offered to interns to mitigate the cost of living in Colorado. Rentals are available locally in Colorado Springs and Woodland Park, with most employees of this office commuting from Colorado Springs.

The position title of this internship is CSFS Woodland Park Field Office Intern. This intern will be based out of the Woodland Park Field Office in the CSFS Southeast Area and is directly supervised by Samuel Mitchell (Lead Project Forester). This office is one of 18 field offices at the CSFS and serves El Paso and Teller counties, as well as Park County west and south of Kenosha Pass. The office is staffed by a Supervisory Forester, three Foresters, and a Lead Forester. We are seeking student interns who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. The applicant should enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different viewpoints. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members.

Minimum requirements

Undergraduate student pursuing a degree in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. Students can be any year or major.
Students graduating in the spring of 2026 or later are eligible for an internship in the summer of 2026.
Good academic standing with undergraduate institution (GPA > 2.0).
Demonstrated career interest in forestry or natural resource fields.
Must have a valid driver’s license, the ability to obtain a driver’s license, or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
Experience working as an effective team member and clear communicator.
Exhibits a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred experience

Good written and oral communications.
Field experience and/or exposure to forestry and natural resources management.
Experience operating chainsaws, including official certification in chainsaw operation such as S-212.
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate 4-wheel drive vehicles, manual transmission vehicles, and UTVs/ATVs in variable weather and road conditions.
Experience using forestry equipment (loggers tape, GPS, increment borer, clinometer, rangefinder, etc.).
Experience identifying trees, grasses, forbs, and shrubs in the western U.S.
Experience navigating with maps, compass, and GPS units.

Conditions of employment

Housing stipends up to $1,500 are available for each student to support costs associated with rent and utilities for the duration of the internship.
Small professional development stipends are available for each student to help with costs associated with conferences, workshops, trainings, etc.
Student might be exposed to hazardous weather, difficult terrain, poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife during field work.
Ability to provide suitable work gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag, and other personal items related to camping and hiking.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Colorado for 1-3 day-long trips, potentially requiring stays in hotels. Approved lodging and per diem expenses are covered (see GSA CONUS rates for Colorado).

Duties and responsibilities

Field-based work includes:
- Unit layout
- Stand exams
- Using GPS devices
- Assisting with project administration
- Assisting with requests from homeowners/landowners about forest management
- Assisting with Forest Ag inspections
- Assisting with forest management on state lands
Office work includes ArcGIS projects, writing silviculture prescriptions, and paperwork.
Training opportunities may include but are not limited to: First Aid/CPR Certification, Society of American Foresters Convention and events, wildland firefighting training, OHV training, and more.
Work with supervisor(s) to prepare a summer work plan, set goals and learning objectives, and evaluate progress.
Complete two professional writing assignments throughout the summer.
Attend a mandatory 1.5-day orientation session on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, 2026, either in person at the CSFS State Office on the Foothills Campus in Fort Collins or virtually. There may also be optional First Aid/CPR courses offered that week regionally.
Hourly internship duties will occur from May 26, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

To apply

Please submit applications by 11:59 p.m. MST on Friday, February 6, 2026, using Handshake Announcement #10513738. You must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in being considered for, but can use the same cover letter for all applications (see specific information required in the cover letter below). Include the following information in your application packet:

Cover letter – The cover letter must include the following information:
1. The CSFS internship position(s) you are applying for (indicate each specific position title listed in the overview). The above position description is for CSFS Woodland Park Field Office Intern.
2. Your interest in and qualifications for each of the positions for which you are applying. Please provide at least 2-3 sentences for each position explaining why you are applying for that position.
Resume
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
Names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications missing any of the above information or submitted after the deadline will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the position or program, please contact:

Kristen Switzer
Experiential Learning Specialist
Colorado State Forest Service
[email protected]
(802) 345-7523

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Job shadowing

The CSFS has opportunities for high school and college students to participate in job shadowing our employees. Such opportunities vary each summer, but involve spending a day with a professional observing their work and learning about their responsibilities firsthand. Positions within the CSFS that may be available to shadow include the following:

Associate director
Communications specialist
Contracts and agreements manager
Education specialist
Experiential learning specialist
Forest carbon specialist
Forest monitoring measurement specialist
Forester
Forestry technician
GIS technician
Nursery program specialist
Watershed Coordinator

Contact Kristen Switzer with questions.

Job shadowing directory

These CSFS employees/offices are willing to host individuals for job shadowing experiences. Please use this directory to reach out to anyone you are interested in shadowing. Be sure to include your name, contact information, availability, where you are located, your age/level of education and your interests.

Employee name	Job title	Location	Shadowing topics
Mark Wagner	Forester	Alamosa	Tree identification Forest ecology Insect & Disease ID and treatment Vegetation management projects (recon & layout; Implementation & administration) Silvicultural prescriptions Community education and outreach
Audrey Miles-Cherney	Upper South Platte Partnership watershed coordinator	Broomfield, Golden, Franktown, Colorado Springs, Woodland Park	Strategic partnerships (federal, state and local governments; non-profits, fire protection districts, utilities, etc.) Cross-boundary collaboration Grant management Networking and career development
James Lucero	Associate director of policy and legislative affairs	Denver	Policy analysis Legislation development Advocacy
Andrew Clements	Forest Inventory and Analysis supervisory forester	Durango	Forest Inventory and Analysis projects, inventory data collection, data management
Josh Braun	Forester	Durango	Tree identification Forest ecology Fire science Vegetation management projects (Recon and layout; Implementation and administration) Silvicultural prescriptions Community education and outreach
Amanda West Fordham	Associate director of science and data	Fort Collins	Leadership Strategic plan development in natural resources Career development Applied research and connecting academia to practitioners
Cameron Taylor	Nursery program specialist	Fort Collins	Nursery operations Seedling production Post-fire reforestation Landowner outreach
Danielle Ardrey	Conservation and youth education specialist	Fort Collins	Environmental education Outreach events Project Learning Tree
Katie Rose Levin	Forest legacy program specialist	Denver, statewide	GIS analysis Conservation easement management Site inspections Landowner and municipal outreach and engagement
Kristen Switzer	Experiential learning specialist	Fort Collins	Administering a summer internship program Tabling for the CSFS and outreach to university students Teaching an online applied forest ecology course
Luke Dittrich	Lead project forester	Fort Collins	Project layout Contract administration Silvicultural prescriptions
Max Erickson	Supervisory forester	Fort Collins	CSFS Fort Collins Field Office programs/projects
Nic Kotlinski	Geospatial data and analysis program manager	Fort Collins	Geospatial data management and analysis Colorado Forest Tracker, GeoTracks, Forest Atlas
Rachel Richardson	Contracts and agreements manager	Fort Collins	How to contract for forestry projects Contracting and agreements processes/flow Contracts and agreements reviews
Sarah Osborne	Supervisory GIS specialist	Fort Collins	Geospatial data management and analysis ArcGIS Pro support for CSFS employees
Tori Hunter	Forest monitoring measurement specialist	Fort Collins, statewide fieldwork	Field measurements to evaluate forest treatement effectiveness (overstory trees, regeneration, understory plants, dead and down wood) Fieldwork planning (travel itineraries, logistics, field technician supervision) Data analysis and management (FVS, Excel, R, GIS)
Weston Toll	Watershed program specialist	Fort Collins	Watershed health and management projects Partnership with Colorado water providers
Maegan Aldous	Forester	Golden	Project layout (flagging unit boundaries, tree marking, etc.) Forest inventory Contract development Silvicultural prescriptions GIS mapping for projects Grant/Forest Ag admin
Mitch Dahlke	Forester	Gunnison	Timber cruising Wildfire mitigation site visits Administering forestry projects Semiochemical implementation
Dylan Eimer	Forester	Gunnison	Good Neighbor Authority projects Project layout, boundary tree marking, project administration Wildfire risk mitigation and fuels reduction projects
Ashley Prentice	Forest carbon specialist	Gunnison	Forest carbon accounting and reporting Data analysis Harvested wood product carbon tracking Biomass quantification and utilization
Lauren Lomonoco	Forester	Montrose	Timber sale preparation and administration Forest ecology/silviculture
Matthew Mastalir	Forester	Rifle	Project layout and development: Forest health, wildfire mitigation, watershed health Contract development and administration GIS mapping for projects (ArcGIS Pro, field maps) Cruising and stand inventory
Pete Albrecht	Lead forester	Leadville	Timber cruising Timber sale prep Common stand exams Sale admin
Francisco Murphy-Garcia	Lead project forester	Summit County	Forest management (planning and implementation) Working with local HOAs, towns, private landowners and fire departments in terms of forest management Conduct home ignition zone assessments Participate in different councils and working groups regarding fire mitigation and forest management
Eric Gehrke	Forester	Woodland Park	Timber cruising Timber sale prep Sale administration
Griffin Payne	Forestry technician	Woodland Park	Stand exams, project administration, unit layout Outreach to landowners/homeowners about wildfire risk mitigation Forest Ag inspections
Michael Till	Supervisory forester	Woodland Park	Stand exams, project administration, unit layout Outreach to landowners/homeowners about wildfire risk mitigation Forest Ag inspections

Seasonal employment

Seasonal forester - 2 positions

POSITION TITLE: Seasonal Forester (2 positions)

LOCATIONS
Medicine Bow Routt National Forest Parks Ranger Station (Walden)
Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger Station (Steamboat Springs)

HOURLY PAY RATE: $18.00 per hour (depending on experience) – dormitory style housing

EMPLOYMENT DATES: Late May 2026 through August 2026 (start and end date may be variable)

CLOSING DATE: Applications will be considered until all vacancies are filled, however materials should be received by February 15, 2026 for full consideration.

Minimum requirements

Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date
Pursuing or completed degree in forestry or related natural resources field
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate a manual transmission vehicle
Ability to operate 4-wheel drive vehicles in variable weather and road conditions
Ability to (or willingness to learn how to) operate chainsaws, timber cruising & marking equipment and perform strenuous outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions
Ability and willingness to work long hours with occasional evening and weekend duties (work based on a 40-hour work week)
Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team

Conditions of employment

This position requires hiking and carrying field equipment most hours of the workday.
Occasional camping will be required.
The employee should be able to work in adverse weather conditions, steep/rough terrain and with minimal supervision.

Preferred experience

Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and written
One season of field experience
Experience in the utilization of Microsoft Suite, ArcGIS Suite, Avenza or GPS

Duties and responsibilities

Supporting the US Forest Service GNA program in Jackson and Routt counties
Chainsaw operation – thinning and opening roads
Assisting with timber sale layout – cruising, boundary delineation and marking
Various GPS and GIS applications
Assisting with assessment and treatment of insect and disease projects

Application instructions

Send resume, cover letter and three professional references to
[email protected].

Handshake: #10520625

Contact information

Nolan Edler
Colorado State Forest Service
59228 State Hwy 14
Walden, CO 80480
(970) 723-4505
[email protected]

CSU is an EO employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Student volunteers

The Colorado State Forest Service Seedling Nursery has opportunities for students to volunteer. Contact Orion Aon for more information about volunteering in the nursery, located on the Foothills Campus.

About the CSFS

The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) is a service and outreach agency of the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. In addition to our state office on the CSU Foothills Campus in Fort Collins, the CSFS maintains 18 field offices throughout Colorado. Our professional staff offer Colorado residents an easily accessible source of technical forestry assistance and educational outreach.

Together with other natural resource organizations, CSFS provides comprehensive support for the care of our natural environment. This exchange of technical assistance and information among cooperating organizations ensures the commitment to a common goal — future forests that will provide benefits for present and future generations.

Our staff include

Foresters
Staff foresters and other support staff
Administrative staff
Seasonal foresters and internships

Contact information

- Questions about verification of employment for a current CSFS employee: CSU Human Resources
- Information about careers in forestry: Holly Leary