Job Description

Summer Internships - Land Management

Westervelt Ecological Services (WES) specializes in the restoration and conservation of wetlands, streams, and habitats for listed species through the development of conservation and mitigation banks. These banks provide environmental mitigation and habitat services to landowners, businesses, government agencies, and land trusts throughout Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Our mission is to provide enduring ecological solutions for the benefit of our stakeholders and the lands we conserve.

The Summer Land Management Intern will support the Westervelt Ecological Services Operations Team in Auburn, Alabama. This hands-on internship offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in ecological restoration, habitat monitoring, stream geomorphology, ecological assessment, and land management across a variety of conservation and mitigation sites.

Interns will assist with fieldwork including stream, vegetation, and hydrological monitoring, invasive species treatments, prescribed burning, GPS/GIS mapping, data analysis, and the development of technical reports. A housing allowance will be provided for students who are required to relocate for the position.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct habitat and vegetation monitoring
• Assist with hydrological assessments and wildlife sampling as needed
• Support invasive species control and prescribed burning activities
• Utilize GPS and GIS tools for mapping and data collection
• Analyze field data and contribute to monitoring reports and technical documentation
• Perform baseline assessments of stream conditions, including habitat evaluations and geomorphological measurements
• Collaborate with team members, contractors, and landowners
• Navigate remote locations for fieldwork using GPS and traditional mapping tools

Requirements

• Basic knowledge of Southeastern flora and fauna; tree identification skills highly desirable
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and in team settings
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; statistics coursework preferred; strong data management and organizational skills
• Exposure to RiverMorph, surveying, and stream ecology preferred
• Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate 4WD vehicles and UTVs
• Strong navigation skills using maps, compass, and GPS; experience with GIS applications preferred
• Physically fit and able to work in challenging terrain and weather conditions
• Highly motivated, critical thinker, and adaptable to dynamic work schedules, including overnight travel and long field days
• Actively pursuing a degree in forestry, wildlife biology, biology, botany, environmental studies, environmental engineering, ecology, or a related field (must have completed sophomore year; summer field camp completion preferred)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive internship pay - $20/hr for undergrads and $22/hr for graduate students
• Housing allowance provided for students who are required to relocate for the position
• Field experience in ecological monitoring, stream restoration, and land management
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Opportunities for networking and career development in environmental conservation

At Westervelt, we believe the best way to develop future wildlife professionals is through meaningful field experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world conservation challenges. Our interns are valued members of the team and play an active role in projects that support healthy wildlife populations, sustainable recreation, and responsible land stewardship.

If you're passionate about wildlife, enjoy working outdoors, and want to gain experience that will help launch your career, we'd love to hear from you.

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

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