Land Stewardship Intern

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

TNC’s Stewardship Team is looking for an intern to assist with their preserve management work. The intern will be working in the field helping with trail maintenance, invasive species removal and general land management activities. This position may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This person may also have the opportunity to participate on a number of fires over the course of their term. Interns will dedicate 5% of their time to professional development activities through STEP.
Main responsibilities include: 
•    Preserve maintenance including installing posts and gates, cutting trees, invasive species removal(with herbicide) and other tasks 
•    Tool, equipment, and vehicle maintenance, including minor mechanical work
•    Assisting staff with preserve volunteer days as needed 
•    Participating in preparing fire lines, maintaining equipment, post-burn monitoring, and other tasks related to prescribed burning 

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube   to hear stories from staff or visit  Glassdoor.

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

Join TNC Virginia as a STEP Intern!  The goal of STEP is to create pathways for people seeking to gain experience with a conservation focused organization.  We offer seasonal and short-term positions and internships in a range of disciplines across our Virginia Teams.  With a focus on recruiting and developing a diverse staff, we strive to create an environment where people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities feel welcomed to participate in conservation. 

All STEP interns will attend an orientation, professional development webinars, and one group field trip.  Along the way, interns will have the opportunity to broaden their experiences through interactions with Nature Conservancy staff and partners.  

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

•    High School diploma or equivalent and 6 months of related experience
•    Experience working in outdoor settings in variable and sometimes physically demanding conditions
•    Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
•    Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by local Fire Program Manager and the TNC Fire Manual 
•    Must meet all TNC Youth Qualification requirements and background check

Preferred Qualifications

•    Experience in land stewardship with a willingness to learn
•    Experience in the safe application of herbicides to control invasive plants

WHAT WE BRING

We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellbeing, and flexibility needs of the people we employ! 

STEP Interns are eligible for limited benefits including: Housing assistance, 401(k) employer match, paid time off (sick and personal), paid holidays, workers comp disability coverage, employee assistance program, employee discounts, and other life and work wellbeing benefits.  Learn more about our benefits at in the Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.  

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

Schedule: 35 hours/week for 10 weeks from May 30 – August 9, 2024
Hiring Timeline: Positions will close on February 25 (unless otherwise noted), Zoom interviews will occur in early March, Final hiring decisions made by April 5.
Pay: $17.00/hour, plus additional housing assistance as needed