Summer 2025 Internship Opportunity
About the Position
The Natural Lands Internship at Mt. Cuba Center offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in ecological land management and conservation. Working directly with our Natural Lands team, interns will participate in a variety of land management tasks and projects focused on promoting and supporting ecosystem function and services. This position provides comprehensive training in standard and advanced ecological concepts while contributing to habitat improvements through invasive species management and restoration techniques. Interns will develop practical skills working both independently and within a team to identify priorities and execute land management projects.
Essential Functions of the Role
This dynamic position combines hands-on ecological management with conservation practices. The intern will work closely with the Natural Lands team while developing essential skills and knowledge in land management.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Participate in non-native invasive species identification and management
- Assist with habitat improvement projects through various restoration techniques
- Support ecological monitoring and data collection
- Contribute to land management operations and maintenance
- Learn and implement various invasive species control practices
- Operate land management equipment including hand and power tools
- Assist with habitat health assessment and improvement initiatives
Through structured training, interns will:
- Execute priority management projects independently and as part of a team
- Apply ecological concepts and land management techniques
- Participate in invasive species control operations
- Conduct field assessments and monitoring
- Operate various land management equipment and tools
- Document and track management activities
Qualifications and Skills
Required Qualifications
- Minimum one year of college completed
- Current enrollment in or completed coursework in Horticulture, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation, or related field
- Ability and willingness to work outdoors in various environmental and physically demanding conditions
- Strong attention to detail and work ethic
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in land management or conservation work
- Knowledge of native and non-native plant species
- Experience with land management equipment and tools
- Understanding of basic ecological principles
- Background in habitat restoration or invasive species management
Learning Outcomes
Interns will develop:
- Practical experience in ecological land management techniques
- Knowledge of native and non-native plant species identification
- Understanding of habitat restoration practices
- Skills in invasive species management and control
- Experience with land management equipment operation
- Knowledge of ecological monitoring and assessment methods
- Understanding of conservation practices and principles
- Professional network within the field of ecological management
About the Role: Compensation & Schedule
- Compensation: $16.00 per hour
- Duration: May 19 through August 29, 2025
- Schedule: 37.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday
- Location: Mt. Cuba Center, Hockessin, Delaware
- Benefits include paid holidays and sick time
- Housing is not provided
- Training in equipment operation and safety
- Opportunities for professional development and networking
Interview & Hiring Process
We require the following in order to consider your application:
- Resume
- Cover letter
If you progress through additional stages in the hiring process you can expect to:
- Complete the online position questionnaire
- Complete a virtual screening interview
- Participate in a final interview with the Hiring Manager and interview panel
Please note: All applications will be reviewed by our team, and all candidates will receive a status update via email after their application has been reviewed. Due to capacity constraints on our hiring team, we are unable to provide you with a specific status update beyond these parameters.
Recruitment Timeline:
- Application review begins: Week of January 13, 2025
- Application deadline: January 24, 2025
- Final decisions communicated: Mid-February 2025
Commitment to Diversity
Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity. We encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. For accommodations or assistance with your application, please email careers[a]mtcubacenter.org.