Blanding’s Turtle Summer Intern

The Opportunity 

The Wetland Trust, Inc. (TWT) protects and restores critical wetland habitats, bolstering rare flora and fauna, with a focus on reptiles and amphibians. We currently own and manage over 3,500 acres of unique wetlands and have several ongoing wetland restoration projects. Some of our sites have Blanding’s turtle populations that are being actively managed. 

TWT seeks eight (8) Summer Interns to assist with annual Blanding’s turtle monitoring and nest protection in Dutchess County NY as part of TWT’s Blanding’s conservation team. Interns will learn to set and check baited hoop traps, conduct health checks on Blanding’s and other turtles, collect biometric data, and mark/tag turtles. Interns will also help track female Blanding’s as they scope for nesting sites and protect their nests using predator guards. Interns may assist with tracking juvenile Blanding’s and documentation of their movements and habitat preferences. 

Position Requirements

• A deep commitment to conservation and high level of integrity.
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
• Ability to provide own transportation.
• Ability to work late into the night if needed.
• Ability to work outdoors for long stretches of time, in inclement weather if needed.

Preferred Qualifications 

• At least one year of field experience, handling wildlife, collecting data, working with a conservation-oriented organization and/or similar experience.

Position Details and Logistics

Pay: $15.50/hour with a maximum of 170 hours

Location: Blanding’s turtle research sites in Dutchess County, NY

Time Frame: May 10 – July 10 2025. From May 10- May 24, monitoring activities occur daily during typical business hours. From May 25-June 10, tracking and nest watch begins at 5pm each evening and runs into the night as needed. A regular schedule for your internship would be determined in collaboration with the Blanding’s conservation team. 

Housing is not provided as part of this internship. 

The Wetland Trust is committed to enhancing diversity and inclusion in our organization and throughout wetland science and conservation. Multiple perspectives and experiences help strengthen our work as an organization and enhance our relevance throughout communities currently underrepresented in the wetland conservation field. People of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and religious minorities are encouraged to apply.