Conservation Monitoring Intern

Conservation Land and Easement Monitoring Internship

The Hampton Conservation Commission seeks conservation land and easement monitoring interns to assist with annual monitoring efforts.

Position Description:

The primary task will be conducting monitoring visits on Town owned and conservation easement lands.  This will involve traversing properties by foot to take photos and make observations about vegetation, wildlife, hydrology, boundaries, and other site conditions. Interns will be responsible for completing monitoring reports that include written observations, maps, and photos. Most of this work will be done independently, but the Commission seeks to hire two interns and interns may choose to work more collaboratively if they choose. This position will report to the Conservation Coordinator, and at minimum have weekly in person check-ins. Interns will present a summary of their findings to the Conservation Commission at the end of the season. 

Additional tasks may include assisting with conservation land/trail cleanup efforts, invasive species mapping efforts, identification of land restoration or maintenance needs, and other tasks as deemed appropriate by the Conservation Coordinator in alignment with the intern’s interests, skills, and the Commission’s priorities.   

Responsibilities: 

• Preparation of monitoring materials (maps and documents) in advance of field visit (15%)
• Conduct field monitoring visits on Town-owned properties and conservation easements. At times, these visits may include staff or landowner(s) (40%) 
  • Observing and documenting property conditions through digital photographs, notes, GPS    and other tools
  • Evaluating the observed use of the property against allowed uses and restrictions of the conservation easement or deed
• Generate monitoring reports: includes compiling monitoring photos and notes and filing reports (30%) 
• Prepare and present a final presentation to the Conservation Commission (5%)
• Additional tasks as assigned by the Conservation Coordinator (20%).

Requirements: 

• Currently enrolled in or a graduate from a Bachelor’s degree program in a related field (natural resources, resource management, wildlife, forestry, etc.)
• Demonstrated commitment to conservation
• Strong communication skills
• Enthusiastic, well-organized, detail-oriented, able to work independently
• Physical ability to navigate rough terrain, navigate via map and compass, comfortable working alone in the field in all weather conditions
• Experience with GPS units or similar equipment
• Experience in using Microsoft Office software, including Word and Excel
• Access to independent transportation.

We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. We will consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

Start Date and Compensation

This internship is seasonal and a total of 120 hours is budgeted.  The start and end dates are flexible but generally fall between June 1st and August 31st.  Compensation starts at $15.12/hour dependent upon experience. Mileage reimbursement is also available for mileage within the Town of Hampton.  

How to Apply: 

Please apply on the Town website (hamptonnh.gov) with a resume and cover letter. Cover letters should address how your skills and professional aspirations align with the responsibilities of this position. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be accepted until the positions are filled. Candidates may be invited to an interview. Positions will be filled by the end of April.