Vegetation Intern (CO-OP Student IV)

Work Description: Under the general supervision of the Branch Chief, supports a team of landscape design and ecological restoration staff to implement a vegetative restoration program including site assessment, restoration design and plan development, preparation of specifications, review of final detail plans, oversight of installation, monitoring and adaptive management of natural and formal landscape plantings in support of stormwater and partnership projects to ensure success and compliance with national professional standards and applicable federal, state and local regulations. 

Other specific duties include site inspections and monitoring, management of the invasive species assessment and control program, negotiation of scopes of work for purchase order and task order contracted support, managing volunteers and contractors, to include Operation Stream Shield participants, in conducting resource management activities, securing county approvals and site permissions needed for construction and maintenance activities and coordination and resolution of citizen concerns.

Minimum Qualifications: Any combination of education, experience and training equivalent to an associate’s degree and two years of experience in landscape architecture, biological services, restoration ecology, engineering, or related field.

Physical Requirements: Ability to conduct field inspections. Ability to walk in rugged, uneven, and steep terrain in streams and stream valleys unassisted to perform field investigation on storm drainage, stormwater management and stream channel projects. Ability to drive a motor vehicle. Ability to communicate effectively with the public verbally and in writing. Physically and mentally able to use all applicable personal protective equipment in an outdoor environment, including hardhat, eye protection, hearing protection, safety footwear, long pants, and sleeved shirt. 

Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of and ability to identify common native and nonnative invasive plants of Fairfax County. Knowledge of non-native, invasive plant control methods. Experience working on ecological restoration projects.

Special Requirements:
*Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per year.  Individuals in these positions are not eligible for County benefits.  The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and a driver's license check to the satisfaction of the employer.

Note: In 2026, all West Drive assignments and Stormwater Planning assignments will be permanently located at the new Water Resources and Infrastructure building, located at 6000 Freds Oak Road, Burke, VA 22015. Position may require traveling to multiple Fairfax County sites.

May 2026 - August 2026, may continue throughout the year not to exceed 900 hours in a calendar year.

To apply: Please email your resume to DPWESSTWjobs@fairfaxcounty.gov