Nature Preserve Management Intern

Nature Preserve Management Intern

This seasonal ten (10) week position of Preserve Management Intern is ideal for a physically fit, self-starter with a strong work ethic, solid interpersonal skills and a bachelor’s degree (or current student) in natural resources, ecology, or a related field who desires practical experience in land and natural resource management. This position requires the ability to perform physical labor on a regular basis. The ability to safely operate power equipment along with strong interpersonal skills, initiative, work ethic, as well as the knowledge and physical ability to effectively and safely problem solve in the field is mandatory. Assisting with project management, ecological restoration, maintaining the property aesthetic, engagement of the visiting public and volunteers are core tasks.

The standard work day is 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM with a half hour for lunch.  Flexing time will be required throughout the work week at the direction of the Preserve Manager to accommodate weather conditions, prepare for activities on the Preserve, or as may be required. This position reports directly to the Preserve Manager at the Thomas P. Bentley Nature Preserve in Warwick Township Chester County.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assisting the Preserve Manager
• Maintain positive visual impact and public access to French and Pickering nature preserves
• Assist with ongoing ecological restoration of French and Pickering properties
• Properly operate, maintain, and store all equipment and Trust property including tools and motor vehicles.
• Support planning and implementation of various programs held on preserves
• Present a knowledgeable and positive disposition to visitors as a representative of the organization and advocate for our conservation goals

Requirements

• Actively pursuing degree in a natural resources/ecology or related field.
• Superior work ethic, initiative, and stamina executing manual labor.
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Dependability, flexibility, and ability to proactively identify and implement ways to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of field operations, programs, and events.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as a value-added member of a team.
• Demonstrate and attitude and ability to work harmoniously and productively with staff, and committees, representing the Trust in an ethical and professional manner.
• Experience operating power equipment a plus
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and an insured motor vehicle.
• A love of nature and passion for conservation!

Physical Requirements/ Working Conditions

• Position requires hiking hills and walking uneven terrain in addition to reaching, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling items up to 50 pounds.
• Bending, walking, hiking, reaching,
• Physical and mental strength for consistently productive consecutive days of field work for the work week is required.
• Work conditions are outdoors and inherently unpredictable.
• Position requires reporting to the Thomas P. Bentley Nature Preserve and maintaining a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends for scheduled events, programs and committees an average of one to two times per week.

Period of Employment/Compensation

Seasonal 35 hour weeks for 10 weeks. There is some flexibility on the exact timing, but in general the position is created to meet French & Pickering needs between June 1- August 27.  The workday begins at 8:00 am – 3:30 pm with a half hour lunch for a 35-hour week.  This position will require flexing time as may be needed to complete site preparations for events, to accommodate weather variability, and meet the needs of the Preserve Manager within the 35-hour work week.  Compensation is $15.00 per hour.