EMERGING PROFESSIONALS IN CONSERVATION (EPIC)

Focused, hands-on fellowships and internships bridging the gap between academic experience and a thriving career in land management.

Cultivating the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders

What is EPIC?

ACE EPIC individual placements (internships) and fellowships provide focused, hands-on opportunities to work alongside and under the guidance of agency mentors. ACE interns apply their knowledge of resource management on their path to becoming the next generation of resource and land managers.

The EPIC Program provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals seeking to bridge their academic or previous work experience with new professional milestones. It allows members to explore, connect with, and preserve America’s natural and cultural resources while gaining specialized skills and advancing their careers in conservation.

EPIC Program Details at a Glance:

Duration

Positions typically last 3 to 12 months.

Mentorship

All members earn a cost of living allowance during their service, some positions provide additional resources such as housing or travel assistance.

Career Pathways

The experience gained through EPIC can lead to many options beyond federal agencies as well such as the private sector, nonprofits, and state agencies.

Explore EPIC Opportunities by Partner:

ACE teams up with leading conservation groups and federal agencies. Choose a partner below to explore specific EPIC opportunities:

Featured Story from the Field

Growing the Landscape and Communities of Catalina Island

“I never expected the people I met to be so generous in spreading their knowledge and passion for the field. The individuals I have met during my time working at the Catalina island Conservancy are some of the kindest, funniest, and most caring people I have ever met, and I am so thankful for the patience and support I have received from my coworkers. I realized that they truly want to see me succeed and work collectively to get to the end result we are all working towards.â€

-Lexy Coons, EPIC Native Plant Member

girl working on fixing plants

Explore EPIC Project Areas

EPIC members (interns) often have degrees and/or experience in diverse disciplines. We offer a large variety of natural science and conservation-oriented placements focused in the following program areas:

Am I Eligible for EPIC?

ACE EPIC works within a variety of agreements with federal agency partners (USFS, NPS, BLM, USFWS) that all have specific requirements for eligibility. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you determine whether the EPIC Program is a good fit for you.

Equal Employment Opportunity

American Conservation Experience provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, American Conservation Experience complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.

EPIC in Action

Read firsthand accounts from EPIC members who are gaining specialized skills, working alongside agency mentors, and launching their careers in conservation.

Ollie’s job: hike the Moab desert looking for springs 💧

Ollie is an ACE EPIC Member in BLM’s Canyon County District in Utah where this year's snowpack was the lowest on record. It's a strange time to be studying water because of it, but springs matter more than people realize—they're biodiversity hotspots that support rare, endangered species most people never see.

"Perhaps it is a weird year to be studying springs, but I'm glad that I get to."

Read his full story through our blog 🔗 in bio!

#Conservation #ConservationCorps #Outdoors #PublicLands

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Passion for the outdoors? Join us to gain hands-on experience and connect with a community that supports public lands. A few examples on our website ⬇ï¸

Fish Culture Member – Abernathy Fish Technology Center
📠Longview, WA
🔎 Support fish hatchery operations and more | October 2026 Start
🔗 Comment EPIC to get the link to apply

Maintenance Support Member – National Elk Refuge
📠Jackson, WY
🔎 Help keep refuge facilities and grounds safe, and welcoming for visitors | Housing Included | October 2026 Start
🔗 Comment EPIC to get the link to apply

Invasive Plant Control & Fuel Reduction Members – CO Front Range FWS Complex
📠Commerce City, CO 
🔎 Remove non-native grasses, thin fuels | October 2026 Start
🔗 Comment EPIC to get the link to apply

Visitor Services Support Member – Huron Wetland Mgmt
📠Wolsey, SD
🔎 Help to set up new office for visitors, support display installation & more | October 2026 Start (flexible)
🔗 Comment EPIC to get the link to apply

Gardening Member – Jimmy Carter National Historic Park
📠Plains, GA
🔎 Assist with garden maintenance and design | Start as soon as possible 2026 
🔗 Comment EPIC to get the link to apply

Backcountry Assistant Team Leader Crew Member – ACE PWC Crew
📠Palm Springs, CA
🔎 Gain valuable experience and mentorship while supporting crews | October 2026 Start 
🔗 Comment CREW to get the link to apply

Traditional Trades (TTAP) – Sleeping Bear Dues National Seashore
📠Empire, MI
🔎 Gain experience helping to maintain the park’s vehicles, equipment, and small engines | Housing Included | October 2026 Start
🔗 Comment EPIC to get the link to apply

#Conservation #Outdoors #PublicLands #Nature #ConservationCorps

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Ava, a public speaking star 🌟

As an Interpretation Member with ACE EPIC at the John Muir National Historic Site, Ava leads tours, builds visitor programs, and works alongside NPS rangers, but the growth that's stuck with her most is public speaking.

"I entered this internship feeling almost 'timid' interacting with the public. Now I'm giving thirty to forty minute tours, and I'm so much more confident."

Read her full story through our blog 🔗 in bio!

#Conservation #ConservationCorps #Outdoors #PublicLands

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What a term with ACE looks like:

🌲 Protect natural and cultural resources across the country
ðŸœï¸ Work at iconic public lands, from national parks to wildlife refuges
â›°ï¸ Network with federal agencies and explore real conservation career paths
🤠Build lifelong friendships, skills, and community

Apply now—comment APPLY for the 🔗.

#Outdoors #ConservationCorps #Nature #conservation

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It’s just easier if I show you ma 🪨

#Conservation #Outdoors #Nature #ConservationCorps

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