Stewardship Internship

About Us

The Western New York Land Conservancy (WNYLC) is a regional, non-profit land trust dedicated to permanently protecting land with significant conservation value for future generations. Our vision is a future where open spaces, working lands, wildlife habitats, and scenic landscapes are cherished and safeguarded as part of Western New York’s natural heritage. To date, we have helped protect nearly 9,000 acres across the region.

Learn more at www.wnylc.org.

Position Overview

Position Title: Stewardship Intern

Reports To: Stewardship Director (primary supervisor), Restoration Ecologist, Conservation Easement Steward

Employment Type: unpaid part-time; 3 days per week

Location: Kenneglenn Office, Wales, NY

Start Date:  June 2026  End Date: Mid August 2026

The Seasonal Stewardship Interns are part-time, unpaid positions that will support the Western New York Land Conservancy’s land stewardship and ecological restoration efforts across conservation properties throughout Western New York.  This position is ideal for a college student or emerging professional interested in conservation, ecology, environmental science, forestry, natural resources, or related fields who is eager to gain practical field experience and an understanding of the land trust field while contributing to meaningful conservation work. The position(s) is primarily field-based and offers hands-on experience in conservation land management, ecological restoration, conservation easement monitoring, and preserve stewardship. The intern will work three days per week alongside stewardship staff and partners to help protect and care for conserved lands.

Core responsibilities will include conducting annual conservation easement monitoring visits, managing invasive species, overseeing ecological restoration projects, and performing general preserve maintenance. The intern will help monitor trails and public access areas, clear blowdowns and debris, report stewardship concerns, and support the day-to-day management of nature preserves and conservation easements. They will also perform a significant role in conducting ecological restoration work, including mechanical removal of invasive species. The stewardship interns will often be working as a team of two to accomplish these tasks.

The position involves regular outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions and terrain types, including forests, wetlands, fields, and stream corridors. Successful candidates should be comfortable working outdoors in remote areas for extended periods, hiking over uneven terrain, and performing physically demanding tasks in all weather conditions. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and an interest in land conservation and ecological stewardship are highly valued. Access to a personal vehicle for travel to and from the Land Conservancy’s property is required. Mileage is reimbursed at the current government rate. 

Requirements:  

• A deep passion for conservation and the Land Conservancy’s mission.
• High School diploma, working towards an undergraduate degree in Ecology, Natural Resources, Forestry, Preserve Management, Wildlife Biology, or a related field.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical activities such as hiking in steep terrain, lift up to 40 pounds, and handle a variety of field equipment. Field work experience is strongly preferred.
• Comfort level working in pairs in remote areas.
• Comfort level working in all types of weather.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to navigate with maps and GPS.
• Ability to use ArcGIS and GPS to display and analyze information. Proficiency with Microsoft and Google Suites.
• Ability to work with a high level of accountability and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Plant identification skills, including native and invasive species.
• Strong interpersonal skills, diplomacy, patience, and a sense of humor. Interns will be responsible for contacting and engaging with landowners on farms and natural lands throughout the region.
• A commitment to excellence, teamwork, continuous learning, creativity, and maintaining confidentiality.
• Willingness to travel throughout Western New York and for flexible hours as needed.
• A smartphone capable of running basic GPS applications
• A valid driver’s license and willingness to use a personal vehicle for travel (reimbursement provided).

This position offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the conservation and restoration of Western New York’s most ecologically significant landscapes. If you have a passion for protecting natural habitats and farmland, engaging communities, and advancing conservation, we encourage you to apply!