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Issues & local projects > Investing in communities > Washington Conservation Corps > WCC Individual Placement Program

WCC Individual Placement program

In addition to our field crews, we offer internship opportunities through the AmeriCorps Individual Placement (IP) program. Our IP members, or IPs, serve directly with natural resource professionals, gaining real-world experience and growing their network in the environmental field. We currently offer 14 IP positions with a variety of partners, including federal and state agencies, nonprofits, and conservation districts. As WCC members, IPs receive a bimonthly living allowance, an AmeriCorps education award (scholarship), and professionally taught, career-transferable trainings and certifications.

A WCC member stands on a sandy beach along the Pacific Ocean. They are facing out toward the water while carrying monitoring equipment in their hands and in their backpack.

Two WCC members wearing waders and high-visibility vests stand in a pool of water surrounded by tall, leafy vegetation. The member on the left is reaching up to adjust wildlife monitoring equipment attached to the base of tree growing above the water.

A WCC member sits in a laboratory and examines a sample through a microscope.

Two WCC members wearing life vests, gloves, and hard hats stand on the edge of a boat in the Puget Sound. They are collecting sediment samples using a special tool attached to the boat.

IPs serve 11-month terms with a parter organization, assisting biologists, foresters, environmental educators, and others. Depending on the position, projects might include:

  • Engaging in environmental research.
  • Creating outreach materials to inform the public about environmental topics.
  • Coordinating volunteer or youth environmental-education events.
  • Assisting with ecological monitoring projects.
  • Designing habitat-restoration projects.

Due to the technical nature of these positions, a college degree is preferred for some positions but not required. All IP positions run from October to early September, with applications opening in July.

Interested in our IP program? Learn more about our AmeriCorps member positions, then check back in July to view position descriptions on our web map, and apply online. Follow application steps on the position descriptions closely; some IP positions require a resume and cover letter in addition to our online application. IP candidates will commit to 11 months of AmeriCorps service (October to early September).

Applications for IP host sites during our 2023-2024 AmeriCorps service year (October 2023 through early September 2024) are closed. Applications to host an IP position open annually in the winter.

What types of activities are eligible?

IP activities support environmental monitoring or research, environmental education, volunteer leadership, habitat restoration, or public recreational opportunities. Activities may include:

  • Designing and conducting restoration projects.
  • Performing environmental monitoring and data collection.
  • Supporting environmental research through data analysis.
  • Leading volunteers on environmental projects.
  • Designing outreach material to recruit volunteers or support education programs.
  • Teaching children and adults.

Is my organization eligible to host an IP?

WCC considers applications from registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental organizations, including tribal governments.

What is my organization expected to provide?

  • Cash matching funds 
  • Timely processing and payment of monthly invoices
  • Site orientation and project-specific guidance at the start of new projects
  • Administration of applicable permits and licenses for projects
  • Single point-of-contact for WCC coordination
  • Feedback on WCC performance via year-end partner survey
  • Diversity in projects to support a well-rounded WCC member experience
  • Specialized tools and PPE, when required
  • Desk and regular access to email and phone

What does WCC provide?

  • One AmeriCorps member for 11 months
  • Assistance with recruitment, enrollment, and evaluation of AmeriCorps member
  • Administrative services (we issue paychecks and benefits for all WCC members)
  • Training opportunities for members, including at least 12 days of professional training
  • Cost-share structure from state funding and an AmeriCorps grant
  • Regular check-ins and support from WCC's IP Coordinator
  • Gloves and rain gear, as needed, for field-based IP members

Related links

Contact information

Rachel Wendling
Statewide Coordinator
rachel.wendling@ecy.wa.gov
564-669-3206