What are the responsibilities and job description for the natural resources intern position at Polk County, IA?
Do you enjoy working outdoors, learning new skills, and making a positive impact on Polk County's natural resources? Join our team as a Conservation Intern with the opportunity to assist with developing and maintaining water quality landscape features (biocells, bioswales, rain gardens, pollinator gardens, etc.), controlling invasive species, harvesting native seed, and helping to manage Polk County Conservation's goat herd.
Under direct supervision of a specified Unit Manager, assists in performing duties as assigned in accordance with the student's educational program and the needs of the unit to which the student is assigned; and to perform related duties as assigned. Assists in varied assignments such as technical/professional work, research, analysis, and other duties as assigned.
Illustrative Examples of Work
- Performs routine work pertinent to the subject area to which assigned such as administration, natural resources, environmental education, community outreach, parks advocacy, parks planning, construction and maintenance, equestrian, and leisure services.
- Specific work assignments depend on the terms of the student's educational program and the unit to which the student is assigned. Examples of work to be performed in each division or area include:
- Natural Resources- installation & maintenance of rain/pollinator gardens, bio swales, etc.; general landscaping practices; invasive species control; habitat restoration
- Performs related duties as assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Basic knowledge of the concepts of the field to which the internship applies.
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Ability to apply knowledge gained through formal education to situations encountered in the work setting.
- Ability to operate equipment, machinery, computer/software, office equipment, etc. as needed.
Training and Experience
- Enrollment at a post-secondary school in coursework relevant to the duties of the unit to which assigned.
Special Requirements
- A criminal background check is required.
- A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.