Wilderness Stewardship

Job Summary

The Wilderness Steward and Wilderness Invasive and Restoration Crew positions are paid internship opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing careers in conservation and natural resources. This field-based training program allows stewards to gain valuable skills that build career opportunities in the Forest Service and non-profit partner field.

BMWF offers two different types of Wilderness Steward positions: Wilderness Steward Placements (WSP) and Wilderness Invasives and Restoration Crew (WIRC). Applicants will be placed into one of the two types of positions at the discretion of BMWF's program staff with consideration taken for personal preference, availability, and relevant experience.

Wilderness Steward Expectations and Requirements

Wilderness Stewards will have the opportunity to meet numerous professionals in the wilderness management field and make connections for future opportunities in wilderness and recreation management.

Requirements include: Camping at primitive sites, extensive hiking over varied terrain carrying a 50 lb pack, and working in a variety of weather conditions. There may be opportunities to work with pack stock on some projects, but stock will not be provided for every project. Wilderness Interns may occasionally work with adult and youth volunteers.

Other requirements:

• Set learning objectives for the summer and complete an Individual Action Plan (IAP).
• Participate in a mid-season review, final review and exit interview.
• Prepare and present a final project (video, photo journalistic report, slideshow, or other creative storytelling method detailing summer achievements and learning experiences) at the Intern Graduation ceremony. This is due at the end of the summer field season and is a public presentation.
• Write and provide a form of media (photos, video, audio, etc.) for one blog entry for the on a topic relevant to the Wilderness Internship experience

Required Skills, Experience and Background

• Ability to work and learn as a member of a team.
• Ability to work and learn as a member of a team.
• Desire to learn about Wilderness/public lands management, including use of traditional trail tools and character monitoring techniques.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude throughout a rigorous field season.
• Safety-oriented, aware of and able to avoid hazards inherent to wilderness travel and work.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and ability to function effectively both independently and under pressure. Project plans and logistics may change on a weekly basis; flexibility is a MUST
• Ability to keep neat and accurate records and reports.
• Motivation and willingness to work non-traditional hours, including nights and weekends.
• Enthusiasm for conservation.
• Basic computer proficiency including email communication, knowledge of Microsoft Word, photo downloading and sharing, and willingness to learn other software as needed.

Additional Preferred Skills

• Backcountry living and travel experience
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with others.
• Stamina to carry up to 50 lb in mountainous terrain for up to eight consecutive days for multiple hitches. History of physical activity is recommended.
• Ability to work with limited supervision in a field and office environment
• Oral and written communication skills including ability to resolve team conflict

To Apply

Complete the by February 1st, 2026. Selected applicants will be contacted by BMWF to schedule an interview. Please contact Education and Internship Coordinator Erynn Castellanos at or with any questions.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Pay: Up to $11.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $11