First State Youth Conservation Corps

First State is offering its Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program for the 1st summer in 2025—a month-long program for young people between 15 and 18 years of age. Participants must be a US citizen or permanent resident of the United States or its territories, as well as possess a valid US Social Security number.

The YCC experience allows teen enrollees and staff the opportunity to learn, work, and recreate in First State National Historical Park. The program is challenging, educational, fun, and offers participants opportunities to expand their horizons while building skills that will benefit them for a lifetime. No previous experience is required, but a willingness and ability to work in a physically active outdoor program, get along well with others, and maintain a positive attitude are essential for success.The YCC program at First State consists of three major parts:

Conservation Work: YCC enrollees will be helping park staff implement the Brandywine Valley Trail Plan which may include closing, rerouting, or creating trails that align with the plan.
Education: YCC enrollees will learn about erosion patterns, sensitive habitats, and careers in the National Park Service.
Recreation: YCC enrollees may have the opportunity to canoe, mountain bike, day hikes, etc. while working at First State!

The work day will be Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm and will include a 30 minute lunch break. The YCC enrollees will be responsible for finding transportation to and from the park each day. First State will be hiring 1 Crew Leader ($20.00 hourly) and 9 crew members Crew Members will be paid ($17.00 hourly) for a work week of 40 hours.

The application period will be posted soon. Please send email-us if you would like to receive a notification when the application period opens.

Eligibility:
In order to be eligible, youth must:

• be between 15 and 18 years old at the start of the program
• have not participated in a YCC program for more than 3 months within the past year
• be able to work the entire 4 weeks
• be able to transport yourself to and from the Brandywine Valley unit at First State NHP each week
• have a willingness and ability to work hard in the outdoors
• relate well with others and have a positive attitude

Applicants who are permanent residents of the United States, its territories or possessions, are eligible for employment. Youth with a disability who can effectively participate in most YCC activities are eligible. Selected applicants must possess a Social Security Card and have a work permit (if required). Youth must not have a history of serious criminal or other antisocial behavior that might endanger their safety or that of others. Employment is without regard to Civil Service or classification laws, rules, or regulations.

For further questions or to request an application, please email firststate@nps.gov with "YCC Question" in the subject line.