Sustainable Forestry Internship
NorthWoods is a non-profit conservation organization serving the communities of northern Vermont and New Hampshire through our Education, Conservation Corps, Conservation Science, and Forest Stewardship programs. Our Charleston, Vermont campus and 1,450 acre demonstration forest are a destination for outdoor recreation, as well as a hub for youth and adult education, sustainable land management, and ecological conservation.
Projects during the 2020 Sustainable Forestry Internship will include invasive plant control (under supervision of a Vermont Commercial Pesticide Applicator), pre-commercial thinning and low-impact tractor logging in the NorthWoods Demonstration Forest; landscape-level ecological assessments and wildlife habitat assessments; tree planting for upland reforestation and climate resilience; forest landowner outreach and consulting (working with a Vermont Licensed Forester); firewood processing; and other forestry, conservation, and education projects. Emphasis will be placed on gaining knowledge and understanding while completing boots-on-the-ground projects, with optional reading and discussions about silviculture, management goals/decisions, and forest dynamics. Current forest health priorities will be addressed, with a focus on landscape-level forest integrity, sustainable forestry practices, and invasive species management.
Qualified applicants should have basic knowledge of ecology and/or forestry, ability to identify local tree species, and chainsaw training (Game of Logging, US Forest Service or equivalent. For those without chainsaw training, Game of Logging will be offered at a reduced cost during the internship). Preferred qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in forestry or environmental science, GPS/GIS mapping, Wilderness First Aid/First Responder training, and/or forest management experience.
Working during COVID-19: NorthWoods has implemented health and safety guidelines for all staff and visitors, including use of face masks and re-organizing projects to allow for physical distance. Our workplace procedures will continue to evolve based on information from the State of Vermont and health experts to keep our community safe.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: People of every race, color, gender, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, religion, belief system and background are encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodation will be made for applicants with disabilities. NorthWoods believes that diversity in our workplace is essential to building vibrant human and natural communities, and strives to provide opportunities for everyone without discrimination.
Employment Period: August 31, 2020 – October 9, 2020 (6 weeks). 40 hrs/week. Start/end dates may be flexible for qualified applicants with scheduling conflicts. Occasional weekend work may be required
Compensation: $13/hr. Discounted housing may be available; inquire for details. Free/discounted participation in NorthWoods events and free equipment rentals (canoes, camping gear, woodshop, etc.)
How to Apply: Please email or mail your cover letter, resume and list of three professional references to Sam Perron. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis; apply early!
Contact: Sam Perron, Director of Forest Stewardship
PO Box 220, East Charleston, VT 05833
(802)723-6551 extension 302