USFS Conservation Internship

Description: This is a full-time, seasonal position offered through Walking Mountains in partnership with the United States Forest Service’s (USFS) White River National Forest (WRNF). The WRNF encompasses approximately 2.3 million acres of public land and has the most visitation of any national forest with 11 ski resorts, eight wilderness areas, and a diversity of wildlife and ecosystems. As a non-profit organization Walking Mountains maintains a partnership with the WRNF to provide educational opportunities and internship support. The USFS Conservation Interns are Walking Mountains employees who work under the leadership and supervision of the WRNF. Throughout the duration of the Conservation Internship, Interns will develop skills in field biology survey techniques, natural resource conservation, or forest vegetative management. This internship demands a strong work ethic to be successful in this fast paced and dynamic work environment.

Conservation Interns will work alongside field scientists and career professionals from the WRNF on a daily basis. Individuals will be placed in one of the following positions based on skills, career goals, and educational experience: 

Aquatics and Fisheries Crew – Work with the USFS aquatic staff to conduct field surveys (fisheries, amphibians, and aquatic macroinvertebrates) to support various projects. Additional work will include providing hands-on assistance with habitat restoration projects and ecosystem assessments.

Wildlife Crew – Work with the USFS wildlife staff to conduct field surveys (e.g., raptor and songbird surveys, bumblebee surveys, acoustic bat monitoring, and pika surveys) to support a variety of projects. Additional work will include overseeing juniper removal in sagebrush habitat and the removal of old, dilapidated livestock fencing with partner organizations.

Timber Crew – Work with the USFS timber staff to perform timber sale preparation work. Tasks include implementing vegetation management projects for a variety of goals including reducing fuel loading, improving forest health, and providing for long term wildlife habitat. Other tasks will include regeneration surveys, hazard tree identification, and other projects as assigned. This is primarily a field going position working on uneven and sometimes steep ground in all types of weather conditions for extended periods of time. Some overnight camping will be required.

Responsibilities:  Participate in on-site, paid training prior to beginning internship responsibilities

Arrive for work on time and follow an assigned work schedule

Maintain open lines of communication with leadership from both WMSC and the WRNF

Work with WRNF personnel and other Conservation Interns to complete assigned projects

Learn and apply skills to complete field work in rugged terrain and variable environmental/weather conditions while maintaining a strong work ethic

Contribute to positive and professional group dynamics with colleagues and practice a team-oriented mindset 

Cultivate a friendly and positive attitude during interactions with visitors to the WRNF

Qualifications: Young professionals with a desire to pursue further education and/or a career in natural science, education/interpretation, natural resource conservation and management, or another environmentally related field

Be able to work and keep a positive attitude in various work situations and all types of weather

Able to hike and carry equipment up to 50 lbs for 5 – 20 miles, work outdoors in all weather conditions

Professional and accountable individual who takes ownership and pride in their work, curious and self-motivated, willing to learn, and open to giving and receiving feedback

Positive, organized, and creative individual who is an effective communicator (oral and written) and can work independently and as part of a team.

Learn more and apply here.