JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Our mission here at the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy is to deliver Walloon Lake, a place where people and nature thrive, to the next generations through the power of conservation. Explore our open positions below that help us to achieve this:

Seasonal Stewardship Intern (Part-Time) 

The WLAC is seeking two Seasonal Stewardship Interns who will work collaboratively with the WLAC staff, reporting directly to the Conservation Programs Manager. Responsibilities will include small-scale habitat restoration and enhancement projects on preserves, monitoring of conservation easement properties, and ongoing trail and preserve maintenance. The Stewardship Interns will also help with coordination, technical support, field assessment, and monitoring on various projects in collaboration with the Trail Maintenance Technician. Other responsibilities will include leading volunteers to meet program goals and additional tasks as deemed necessary.  

The Stewardship Interns should be familiar with Michigan natural community types, native plants, and animal species. You should have living arrangements in the greater Petoskey area, be over 18 years of age, and have reliable transportation. This position may require the use of personal vehicles (mileage is reimbursed at the Federal rate). The WLAC anticipates providing this entry-level opportunity to students or those interested in natural resources field work (e.g., environmental, natural, water, biological, ecological, etc.). Current students looking for internship opportunities should especially apply. This position is a part-time, seasonal position (~30 hours per week) from mid-May through August 2024 (dates negotiable). 

Position: Seasonal Stewardship Intern  

Duration: 14-16 weeks, mid-May through August 2024 

Rate of pay: $14.00 per hour, 28 – 32 hours per week (plus mileage paid at the Federal rate)  

Hours: Monday – Thursday 9 AM EST – 4 PM EST, Friday’s are flexible. Some nights and Saturday’s may be necessary depending on organizational events. Advance notice will be provided. 

Location: Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy office in the Walloon Lake Village 

Responsibilities: Duties will focus primarily on assisting with stewardship and land  

protection efforts including trail development, invasive species management, and general tasks associated with the WLAC’s programs. 

Specific activities may include:  

  • Trail Maintenance:  
  • Ensure the integrity and safety of trails within our preserves through regular inspections and maintenance activities. 
  • Assist in trail construction and maintenance 
  • Preserve Monitoring:  
  • Conduct field surveys to assess the condition, health, and biodiversity of conservation preserves, collecting data for ongoing management initiatives 
  • Assist with the implementation of management plans for WLAC preserves  
  • Assist in annual monitoring of conservation easement protected properties 
  • Event Assistance:  
  • Provide support during community events, educational programs, and outreach activities organized by the Conservancy to promote environmental awareness. 
  • Coordinate and oversee volunteers for stewardship activities and workdays   
  • Wildlife Habitat Improvement:  
  • Collaborate on projects aimed at enhancing and restoring wildlife habitats within our conservation areas 
  • Assist in removal of invasive species on WLAC preserves including cutting, pulling, and hauling of brush 
  • Educational Outreach: 
  • Engage with the local community by assisting in educational programs and workshops, sharing the importance of conservation and sustainable practices. 
  • May be asked to provide material for newsletters, presentations and web/social media outlets 
  • Data Management: 
  • Assist in the organization and analysis of data collected during fieldwork and monitoring activities 
  • Maintain land management records/databases for conservation easements and WLAC owned properties   
  • Miscellaneous: 
  • Other tasks as assigned by the Conservation Programs Manager or Executive Director 

Desirable skills and abilities:  

  • An interest in, and knowledge of, natural resources and conservation  
  • Willingness to do strenuous physical work, including ability to lift 50lbs 
  • Ability to operate machinery, hand tools, etc.  
  • Basic knowledge and ID skills for Michigan flora, fauna, and invasive species  
  • Familiarity with Michigan ecosystems  
  • Good organizational, observational, map reading, written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills 
  • Familiarity with GPS devices and GIS software is desirable 
  • Strong attention to detail  
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently

Requirements:  

  • Driver’s license and reliable transportation 
  • At least 18 years old 
  • Housing in the greater Petoskey/Boyne City area preferred 
  • Ability to use personal car for work-related transportation (mileage is reimbursed at the Federal rate) 

To Apply: Send a resume and cover letter to Tanner Yurk, Conservation Programs Manager, at tanner@walloon.org. Applications should be submitted and received no later than 11:59 PM EST on March 31, 2024.