Stewardship Intern

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan seeks a Stewardship Intern to assist in caring for the Land Conservancy’s network of nature preserves located throughout an eight-county service area. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is an independent, non-profit land trust dedicated to conserving ecologically critical land in West Michigan. More information is available at www.naturenearby.org.

Position Type: Full-time, Temporary, Hourly/Non-exempt

Timeframe: mid-May – mid-August, 2026

Compensation: $17/hour

Supervisor: Stewardship Manager

Position Summary: The Stewardship Intern will support other stewardship staff in managing the Land Conservancy’s nature preserves. The Stewardship Intern will be able to explore various aspects of conservation work through on-the-job learning opportunities.

Potential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in implementing management plans for Land Conservancy nature preserves
• Work with volunteers and community members for public workdays and special projects
• Manage invasive species using a variety of appropriate mechanical and chemical methods
• Safely operate a variety of outdoor equipment such as loppers, chainsaws, and backpack sprayers
• Maintain trails, signs, and other public access infrastructure
• Other tasks as assigned

Qualifications:

• Either 1) enrolled in a degree program in Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field, with at least two years of relevant coursework OR 2) a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, completed no more than 12 months prior to the date of hire.
• Some experience identifying Michigan flora and natural communities
• Ability to walk and do strenuous physical work (lift and carry 40 pounds) in remote areas, on rough terrain, and in inclement weather for the duration of an 8-hour shift
• Ability to work independently and with a team on outdoor and indoor tasks
• Strong organization skills, attention to detail, and desire to learn
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Valid Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator License, chainsaw safety training, or willingness to obtain both (certification/training fees will be covered)
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (mileage from office to work sites will be covered)

Terms of Employment:This is a full-time, hourly, 12-week (480-hour) position, running approximately mid-May to mid-August. Work reporting location is 237 Steele St NW, Suite A, Grand Rapids, MI, with daily work locations ranging throughout the Land Conservancy’s service area. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required. The Land Conservancy is an at-will employer. Employment is dependent on performance and budget, and can be terminated with or without cause or notice.

Application Procedure:To apply, email a cover letter and resume to Tarah Grow at tarah@naturenearby.org. Please include “Stewardship Intern” in the subject line.

Closing Date: Application deadline is 11:59pm, February 8, 2026

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan does not discriminate in its employment practices. All aspects of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, training, and any other opportunities, will be made on the basis of individual abilities and qualifications and without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, marital status, height, weight, handicap, genetic information, gender orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other legally protected category.