Crow's Nest Long-Term, Resident Intern

Brief Description Natural Lands, a vibrant, regional, nonprofit organization and leader in land conservation, natural resource stewardship, and public engagement, seeks a Long‑Term Intern to join our team at our Crow's Nest Preserve in Elverson, Pennsylvania. Crow’s Nest Preserve is made up of 712 acres of protected lands along French Creek. The preserve is both a showcase of responsible management practices for natural areas and a place where the public can connect with the natural world. The preserve hosts a variety of educational programs, including after‑school programs, a teen service program, and a summer camp. Since the early 1950s, Natural Lands has saved open space, cared for nature, and connected people to the outdoors in eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. Today, the organization is one of the nation’s largest regional land conservancies and is widely respected for its record of success, technical expertise, respectful and creative approach to partnerships, fiscal strength, and integrity. Internship Duties The Intern will work with the Preserve Manager and the Educator(s) to assist in managing the preserve as well as to plan and run the educational programs. In this position, the intern will gain experience in a variety of semi‑structured and informal educational techniques, and learn about the workings of a land trust, become familiar with local flora, and gain experience in land stewardship techniques. This is a hands‑on position with training provided. If the internship is being completed for academic credit, Natural Lands will work with the intern and the school to ensure that academic requirements are met. The Intern will assist the Educator(s) and other instructors with all aspects of the education programs including, planning, leading, setting, and cleaning up experiential activities. They will assist the Preserve Manager with removing invasive plants, mowing lawns and trails, maintaining native plant gardens, and restoring natural areas and hedgerows when education programs are not in session. Tools used in the course of the work include power string trimmers, brush cutters, hand and chain saws, pruners, lawnmower, trucks, and tractors. Internship Period: September 2026 through August 2027 Housing Provided Natural Lands provides comprehensive benefits for our employees. Eligibility is determined based on number of hours worked per week. We offer a range of benefits and incentives including health insurance, retirement plans, time off including vacation and holidays, and professional development opportunities. Requirements Strong affinity for the environment and outdoor activities. Excel at working with children. Highly motivated, responsible, and reliable. First Aid, CPR, and lifeguard training is a plus. Able to work 37.5 hours per week. This time typically falls during the traditional workweek, with some weekend hours required. Must be available to work all scheduled weeks of summer camp (typically the last week of June through the first week of August). Maintain a valid driver’s license. Successfully pass a background check. Must be able to walk, stand, bend, and squat on uneven terrain; must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and push up to 50 pounds. Must be prepared to work outdoors under all conditions, including heat, cold, and occasional exposure to poison ivy, biting and stinging insects, etc. EEO and Diversity Statement Natural Lands is committed to creating an inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. We aim to build a workplace where employees feel empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. We welcome you to explore a career at Natural Lands. #J-18808-Ljbffr Natural Lands