Contracted Student Interns - Habitat Management Intern Fall 2026 (UNPAID)

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Falmouth, MA

10d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is seeking applicants for a Habitat Management Intern for the Fall 2026 semester. This unpaid internship is designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in habitat management. The primary focus will be assisting with the development and writing of habitat management plans for special status species priority habitats at Waquoit Bay Reserve. This role will involve desktop-based research, data gathering, and report writing, with opportunities for mentorship from the Stewardship Coordinator. The intern will gain knowledge of habitat requirements for special status species and the planning and management requirements of relevant state programs and regulations. The position can be hybrid or in-person, with some fieldwork and meetings potentially required.

Requirements

• Must be a student or recent graduate seeking practical experience.
• Ability to work primarily desktop-based using a laptop.
• Willingness to participate in some light fieldwork.
• Clarity and consistency in communication.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Microsoft Windows and Office software, particularly Word and Excel.
• Experience with GIS, particularly ArcGIS.
• Coursework in environmental studies, planning, and/or botany, ecology, or wildlife.
• An interest in nature and the environment and its protection, conservation, and sustainable management.

Responsibilities

• Assist with developing and writing habitat management plans for two or more special status species priority habitats at Waquoit Bay Reserve.
• Conduct desktop-based research using a laptop to gather documents, maps, and information.
• Collate gathered information into draft management plan documents.
• Review examples of existing habitat management plans from other DCR parks and properties.
• Gather or generate information such as data, documents, photos, and maps related to special status species habitats at Waquoit Bay Reserve.
• Use gathered information to write a draft habitat management plan for portions of Washburn Island state park, Waquoit Bay Reserve headquarters, and potentially other areas of the Reserve.
• Potentially perform GIS work to create maps for use in signs or brochures.

Benefits

• Outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package.
• Work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
• Opportunity to earn academic credit through college or university.

What This Job Offers

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