Conservation Stewardship Intern

Summary of Position:

The Conservation Stewardship Intern is responsible for implementing stewardship activities related to Minnesota Land Trust’s growing portfolio of conservation easements throughout the state of Minnesota. This includes frequent travel visiting conserved lands throughout the state to monitor easements, collecting data, maintaining records, assisting with violation investigation, and other duties as assigned by the Stewardship Department and other Land Trust staff. The intern will also gain valuable experience exploring other facets of Land Trust by spending time with other departments within the organization. In addition to Land Trust staff, the intern works closely with landowners, volunteers, and conservation partners throughout the state. Training will be provided.

The internship provides the opportunity to learn about the work of the Land Trust, including how the Land Trust protects, restores, and stewards land throughout the state, and the chance to network with talented staff and conservation partners, all while making meaningful contributions to one of the top conservation nonprofit organizations in the state of Minnesota.

The position is for up to 12 weeks during the summer of 2025 (May through August); exact start and end dates are flexible. The Intern will be expected to work at least 30 hours per week, but no more than 40 hours per week.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ):

All employees of the Minnesota Land Trust are expected to embrace the ideals of our DEIJ plan and incorporate our DEIJ goals into their ongoing work. All employees should be familiar with the current DEIJ plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:

CONSERVATION EASEMENT STEWARDSHIP: 70%

• Assist with the conservation easement monitoring program, including conducting annual monitoring visits (both in person and remotely using aerial imagery).
• Assist in preparation of updated baseline documentation reports, including fieldwork, compiling conservation data, and utilizing digital photography, GPS, and GIS technologies.
• Maintain records (electronic and paper files) of conservation easement projects and assist with data management and reporting.

OTHER LAND TRUST SUPPORT/ACTIVITIES: 30%

• Assist and learn from other Land Trust departments, including Land Protection, Restoration, Engagement, and Development and Communications.
• Complete a self-directed project (e.g., produce a video, write an article, lead a workshop – the possibilities are endless!).
• Assist with organizational communications by capturing photos, videos, and written testimonials to showcase conservation efforts and support Land Trust outreach efforts.

Position Requirements:

• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse variety of individuals including staff, partners, landowners, volunteers, and members of the Board of Directors.
• Well organized, self-directed, attentive to details, and responsive to deadlines.
• A demonstrated interest in land conservation and outdoor activities.
• A valid driver’s license, access to a dependable vehicle, and ability to drive to locations in outstate Minnesota. Visits to some locations may necessitate overnight stays, depending on the distance and the assigned work. The Land Trust will reimburse costs for meals and lodging, when appropriate, and mileage for personal vehicle use.
• Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, email, and calendar programs.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to hike as much as five miles a day on foot through uneven terrain. Comfort hiking alone. Exposure to rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and biting insects.
• Ability to navigate in remote areas with dense vegetation.
• Ability to carry equipment while in the field, up to 20 pounds.
• Office duties to be performed at a desk and at a computer.

Supervisor: Stewardship Associate
Classification: Short-term; Full-time; Non-exempt
Rate: $18-20/hour
Location: St. Paul, MN