Invasive Plant Biology Intern

The Maine Natural Areas Program seeks a summer intern to assist with the mapping, treatment, and monitoring of invasive terrestrial and wetland plants throughout Maine.  Fieldwork includes searching for invasive plants, documenting infestations using field forms, cameras, maps, and handheld GPS units; removing invasive plants with hand tools; monitoring and treating infestations; and assisting with invasive plant workshops.  Office work includes data entry, creating maps using iMapInvasives and ArcGIS, assisting with invasive plant management recommendation reports, preparing education and outreach materials, and contacting landowners.  Applicants must be able to work outdoors for long periods of time under a wide variety of conditions, including long days on foot carrying heavy gear in hot weather.  

The Internship requires a strong interest in invasive plant ecology and land stewardship, attention to detail, and an enthusiasm for addressing invasive plants in Maine.  The ability to identify common invasive and non-invasive plants, familiarity with handheld GPS units, and prior fieldwork experience and coursework (vegetation surveys, plant ID, etc.) are strongly preferred, though training can be provided.  The position is 40 hours/week from approximately mid-May through mid-August 2024 and pays $17.00/hour.  Some overnight travel will be required.  Preference will be given to applications received by Thursday, February 15, 2024.