Conservation Internship (Environmental Education)

The Des Moines County Conservation Internship program is designed to give students in the field of conservation an opportunity to gain diverse work experience within the County Conservation system. Interns will primarily assist Environmental Education staff with program preparation and presentations, and occasionally natural resource management staff with wildlife management activities. There will also be opportunities to assist law enforcement staff with patrol and law enforcement duties, and administration staff with various administrative efforts. This internship program is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of all aspects of county conservation department work through hands-on experience.
 

The individual in this position will perform duties for the Des Moines County Conservation Board, as set out in this document, under the direct supervision of the Environmental Education Manager.  The individual plans, develops, and presents environmental education, interpretation, conservation education, and outdoor recreation programs for youth summer camps; plans and presents programs to school groups and the public as necessary; develops written, audiovisual, and display materials.  This individual assists in directing the operations and programs of Starr’s Cave Nature Center.  This individual performs related work as the need is identified. The purpose of this internship is to help the individual gain experience in the field of environmental education and interpretation, and if applicable, to fulfill any obligation set forth from that individual’s college requirement.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Students who are pursuing a career in Environmental Education generally fill this position. A sincere interest in conservation work is required.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have no major criminal convictions, and must be able to get to and from the primary work site. A current valid driver’s license is required. Applicants must be able to routinely stand, walk, sit, kneel, stoop, balance, climb, and safely operate a wide variety of hand and power tools, tractors and other heavy equipment. Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds, follow written and oral instructions, work without supervision if required, and work outdoors in all weather conditions. Applicants must be willing to work irregular hours including occasional weekends and evenings.

Applicants should possess a general knowledge of simple construction, carpentry, painting, etc. and have basic ability to identify flora and fauna common to the area.

WORK SCHEDULE, COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
The employment period is mid-May to mid-August (specific starting and ending dates somewhat flexible, depending on school schedule of applicant), 40 hours/week with no expectation of employment beyond that specified. Normal workweek is Monday through Friday 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM though the occasional evening or weekend may be required. Starting pay is $15.00 - $17.00/hr. depending on qualifications. Interns will be provided with uniforms, all necessary training, and priority consideration for future seasonal employment and higher pay in subsequent employment periods.

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until all available positions have been filled. 

To Apply, send cover letter with resume and references to:

Des Moines County Conservation
Attn: Marcus Nack, Environmental Education Manager
13700 Washington Rd.
West Burlington, IA 52655
Email: conservation@dmcounty.com

• Job Type: Full-Time
• Department: Conservation
• Salary Range: $15-17 / HR
• Posted: 2/20/24
• Expires: 4/1/24