Individual Placement- Grounds and Natural Landscapes

Student Conservation Association•Johnston, IA

About The Position

This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to assist USACE Park Rangers and volunteers in maintaining recreation areas of the Saylorville Lake Project located in Johnston, IA. Interns will be vital in ensuring our parks, campgrounds, and trails remain in excellent condition for the public. Key responsibilities will involve a variety of tasks including groundskeeping, natural resource management, and operational support. Interns are expected to begin work from 0730-1600 (Mon-Fri), first checking in with staff on daily projects and tasks. Intern’s will often be working in tandem with natural resource staff & volunteers and may on occasion be instructed to work independently depending on the work. Interns will engage in a wide array of work including but not limited to mowing, tree planting, painting, playground inspections, trash removal/collection, invasive species management and assisting with interpretive program/events. The intern's primary responsibility will be the upkeep and beautification of the park, involving groundskeeping duties such as mowing, string trimming, trash removal, painting and cleaning of facilities. This role also includes more technical landscape management, like assisting with prairie management, invasive species management, tree removal, chipping, and pruning with chainsaws and pole saws. While the core of the position is centered on this vital maintenance work, the intern will also gain a broad range of experience by supporting other operational needs.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old on start date.
Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
Must complete defensive driving training provided by the government.
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Must have the ability to effectively speak, read, and write in English.
Must have the ability to work outdoors and lift up to 40 pounds.
Must wear SCA provided attire while on duty.

Nice To Haves

Experience using Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) is preferred but not required.
We are looking for self-motivated individuals who are eager to learn and are interested in a career in natural resource management field.

Responsibilities

groundskeeping
natural resource management
operational support
mowing
tree planting
painting
playground inspections
trash removal/collection
invasive species management
assisting with interpretive program/events
string trimming
cleaning of facilities
assisting with prairie management
tree removal
chipping
pruning with chainsaws and pole saws
campground management
staffing fee booths and the interpretive visitor center
helping with volunteer programs
maintaining navigational buoys
contributing to environmental objectives such as invasive species management and habitat improvement