Conservation Grants Intern

Job Description

The conservation grants intern plays a vital role at INHF by writing grants that provide funding for land conservation and other INHF projects. 

Work Examples

The conservation grants intern applies to two major grant cycles during the summer — State Recreational Trails Grants (July) and Resource Enhancement and Protection Grants (August). The conservation grants intern applies to two major grant cycles during the summer. This intern will also support the grants program through additional grant writing, research, and site visits. In addition, the intern will have an opportunity to learn about grants and fundraising for conservation, conservation and land stewardship principles in practice, and nonprofit management.

Interns have also assisted with INHF volunteer events and have written for the INHF blog. The position will have a chance to be on the land to get first-hand experience with conservation.

Skills/Qualifications

This position is open to all majors and skill sets and requires a high level of independence, initiative, and ability to adapt. The most successful applicants will have a passion for conserving Iowa’s land, water and wildlife, are curious and strategic thinkers with strong writing skills (especially in persuasive and technical writing), have an interest in nonprofit and mission-centered operations, and have some knowledge of Iowa’s native ecosystems.

The position is open to both undergraduate and graduate students; applicants must be attending an Iowa school or originally be from Iowa.

Availability

This position is full-time with flexible hours up to 40 hours/week, beginning May 17 and ending August 5. This is a paid position at a rate of $15/hour.

The position is primarily office-based. There is an opportunity to blend working from our downtown Des Moines office, working remotely, and working in the field.

Questions

To learn more about the conservation grants internship, contact Amanda Acton, Grants Coordinator at aacton@inhf.org

Application information

Applications for the summer 2027 position are now open. The deadline to apply is February 8, 2027.

To apply submit, complete this form and include the following:

• cover letter
• resume 
• writing sample (an essay, article, research paper, or other similar work)