POSITION TITLE: Stewardship Intern
POSITION TERM: May – September 2025
HOURS: Full-time/Seasonal (average 37.5 hours/week). Generally, Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM –
3:30 PM, with occasional early morning, evening, or weekend hours as needed.
SALARY: $15/hour
TO APPLY: Submit a cover letter, resume, and two references to Mike Cranney, Director of
Stewardship, at mjc@wctrust.org.
POSITION SUMMARY
Willistown Conservation Trust (WCT) is seeking a Stewardship Intern to support the Stewardship Department under the supervision of the Stewardship Manager. This position will assist in maintaining and restoring WCT’s preserves, properties, and facilities. Responsibilities include habitat restoration, working with volunteers on preserve-based projects, and collaborating with other program areas within
the organization. Additionally, the Stewardship Intern will gain experience in conservation easement management and community engagement. As part of the internship, the intern is expected to design and conduct a study relevant to their educational and career interests, culminating in a paper, poster, or presentation. The ideal candidate is passionate about environmental conservation, demonstrates strong initiative, possesses excellent project management skills, and thrives in a collaborative environment. As a small nonprofit, WCT values teamwork across all departments.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Stewardship Intern will report directly to the Stewardship Manager, and lend support in the following areas:
-Assist with the maintenance of Kirkwood, Ashbridge, Woodpecker Woods, Kestrel Hill, and Rushton Woods Preserves, as well as the Okehocking Barn and WCT Office headquarters.
-Perform trail maintenance, invasive species management, native plant restoration, and habitat improvements. -Lead or assist with volunteer and student service groups under the supervision of the Stewardship Manager.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of preserve management plans.
- Participate in WCT education and outreach events with volunteers, school groups, corporate groups, and the general public.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
● Valid driver’s license.
● Ability to perform medium to heavy physical work in various outdoor conditions.
● Currently pursuing or holding a degree in landscape architecture, conservation, natural resource management, ecology, arboriculture, environmental sciences, or a related field.
● Ability to work both independently and as part of a close-knit team.
● Strong communication skills to engage with professionals, landowners, and WCT constituents.
● Basic plant identification skills, including knowledge of native and invasive species.
● Familiarity with invasive plant management techniques.
● Understanding of ecological and landscape restoration principles.
● Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects effectively.
● Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and a willingness to learn easement management software.
● Experience using basic hand and power tools, including weed whackers, mowers, and chainsaws. Preferred (or willingness to learn):
● Familiarity with conservation easements and their management.
● Experience managing volunteers.
● Experience operating a tractor and manual transmission vehicles.
● Basic mechanical skills, including small engine maintenance and carpentry.
● Familiarity with ArcGIS Pro software.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Willistown Conservation Trust is a non-smoking, dog-friendly workplace. Staff members collaborate
across all departments. WCT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment and is
proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for
employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual
orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
