Conservation Easement Stewardship Intern

Job Description

About the Company:

POST (Peninsula Open Space Trust) is a nationally-recognized land conservation organization dedicated to protecting open space in the region for the benefit of all. They operate with a strong set of core values, including the belief that Nature Connects Us All, emphasizing interconnectedness and biodiversity; Act Today for the Long-Term, balancing immediate action with a bold, future-oriented vision; Commit to Learning and Growth, fostering creativity, curiosity, and adaptability; Care About How We Work, advocating for dignity, acknowledging injustices, and striving for equity in actions; and Honor Our Collective Strengths, promoting collaboration for shared vision and positive impact. POST is committed to diversity and equity, striving to create an inclusive, values-driven workplace where all employees can thrive. Their office is located in downtown Palo Alto, near public transportation.

About the Job:

This is a flexible (32-40 hours a week), six-month internship opportunity in support of POST’s conservation easement stewardship program. The intern will report directly to the Conservation Easement Manager.

Purpose of the Position:
The primary purpose of this internship is to provide hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector, specifically within land conservation. The intern will contribute to a high-functioning team, gaining insights into land management, stewardship, conservation easement monitoring, and landowner relations.

General Tasks and Responsibilities:
The intern’s general tasks include preparation and filing of materials for conservation easement monitoring, fieldwork assistance, research projects, database organization, and other requested projects.

Detailed Essential Duties:

• Preparation for Monitoring Visits: Assist with organizing field binders, creating photo compilations, scheduling visits, preparing pre-monitoring letters, and reviewing previous reports for annual conservation easement monitoring.
• Participation in Monitoring Visits: Engage in both on-ground site visits and remote monitoring, including taking field notes, navigating, and photo documentation of observations.
• Post-Monitoring Follow-up: Aid with tasks after monitoring visits, such as organizing photo documentation, coordinating with the GIS team for Photo Point map updates, preparing monitoring reports and post-monitoring letters, and updating monitoring field binders.
• Research for Improvement: Conduct research to enhance the quality and efficiency of conservation easement monitoring by attending webinars, reviewing materials, and participating in community conversations.
• Process Improvement Implementation: Research methods for incorporating new processes to improve efficiency and/or quality of monitoring, and assist in implementing these improvements, including organization of POST’s Salesforce database system and review of historical files.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• A background and/or interest in land conservation.
• Currently pursuing or already possessing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree.
• Proficient computer skills and a willingness to learn POST’s Salesforce database system and other relevant programs.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Self-motivated and adaptable.
• Ability to take initiative and deliver desired results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse individuals and groups.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to communicate regularly and accurately using phone, computer, web, and video technology.
• Ability to interact effectively with digital and printed materials and operate job-related equipment.
• Capacity to drive a vehicle to remote locations for on-ground site visits.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 lbs. of monitoring binders and onsite visit equipment (e.g., first aid kits, backpacks).
• Ability to traverse uneven or rough terrain, and to tolerate exposure to outdoor elements and varying weather conditions. This includes on-ground site visit hikes of various levels of elevation and duration. Reasonable accommodations will be made to allow a person to perform essential functions.

Pay and Benefits:
This is a temporary position with pay at $25.00 per hour. It carries no discretionary benefits except for state-mandated sick leave. The exact timing and scheduling are flexible to accommodate the appropriate candidate. A Caltrain Go Pass will be provided if needed.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit their resume along with a cover letter. The cover letter should explain your interest in POST, your dates of availability, and highlight any pertinent professional or personal experience relevant to the position.