Intern - Grassland Ecology (Summer)

the South Dakota State Government • Brookings, SD

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This summer internship runs from May through August and supports grassland vegetation monitoring across South Dakota. The intern will work alongside the Grassland Ecologist to sample Game Production Areas, search for rare plant communities, identify plants, and collect data using randomized plot sampling methods. The role also provides opportunities to develop grassland monitoring skills and learn management techniques to improve natural resources on public lands. The experience is intended to help prepare the intern for graduate school or a career in ecology.

The position requires travel across South Dakota and overnight stays at various State Parks throughout the summer. The intern should be prepared to work independently, work long hours, and perform duties in variable weather conditions.

Requirements

• Must be enrolled as a part-time or full-time student at a college, university, or technical institute when applying.
• Must be a current part-time or full-time student taking at least 6 credit hours in the upcoming semester or immediately preceding semester.
• By the start of the internship, must have completed one year (nine months) of the chosen program.
• Must be prepared to work independently, work long hours, travel, and work in variable weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Preference may be given to applicants with junior or senior standing.
• Preference may be given to South Dakota residents.
• Preference may be given to students of South Dakota institutions.

Responsibilities

• Sample Game Production Areas to monitor grassland vegetation.
• Search for rare plant communities throughout South Dakota.
• Identify plants and collect data using randomized plot sampling methods.
• Learn grassland monitoring skills and management techniques for public lands.
• Travel across South Dakota and stay at various State Parks during the summer.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed