Spring and Summer Native Landscaping and Ecological Restoration Internship
Description: Good Oak Ecological Services is seeking applicants for an internship in our Madison, Wisconsin office working in the fields of native landscaping and ecological restoration. Here is an opportunity for a truly “green”, hands-on learning experience. Primary responsibilities will include installing and caring for native herbaceous and woody plants, invasive species management, natural areas stewardship work, rain garden installation, exotic brush clearing, prescribed burning, equipment maintenance, and some office work as needed. Through a high-quality and educational work experience, this position will help prepare you for a career in native landscaping or natural areas management.
Duration: We have multiple positions in two internships available.
SPRING: This internship would start mid-March or April 2021 and run into May with the possibility to continue into summer. There is some flexibility to work around class schedules.
SUMMER: This internship would start mid to late-May 2021 and run into August.
Qualifications: All candidates must be at least 18 years of age, have the ability to lift up to 75 pounds, ability to stand or walk while working for hours at a time, willingness to work in harsh weather conditions and have a strong commitment to environmental protection. An ideal candidate will possess several of the following qualities:
- seeking or having a degree in: botany, landscape architecture, horticulture, ecology, forestry, wildlife management, restoration or other related field
- experience with landscaping
- some plant identification knowledge
- volunteer experience in natural areas management
- experience operating gas powered tools
- pesticide application license or an interest in applying for one
- a strong desire to learn
- strong work ethic
- attention to detail
- problem solving skills
good communications skills
Compensation: This is a seasonal, part-time position working roughly 20-40 hours per week at $12.00+ per hour. There is also a $5 daily “low-emissions” travel stipend rewarded to those who travel to the office by human power (bicycle, walking, etc) or using public transit. There will also be additional unpaid time each month dedicated specifically to education through field trips, etc. Credit may be available through your educational institution if proper arrangements are made with a faculty member.
Additional Notes: In light of the pandemic, Good Oak has continued to safely operate with additional protocols in place. Employees may be asked to drive personal vehicles to job sites in order to maintain proper distance and reduce virus spread. Mileage reimbursement will be provided in these instances. While applicants with personal vehicles are preferred, it is not a requirement for the position.
To Apply: Send a resume and brief cover letter (in PDF format) to:
Terri Roth
terri@goodoak.com
Please specify which internship you’re interested in applying for.
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and positions may be filled as applications are received.
Spring applications are due by March 7th, 2021
Summer applications are due by April 18th, 2021
About Good Oak Ecological Services: Good Oak is a small but growing company specializing in ecological consulting, natural areas management and native landscaping. We are based in Madison, WI and work throughout southern Wisconsin. Our mission is to restore natural areas and reintroduce native plants to our human landscape for the benefit of wildlife and the future of humanity. Through our work we hope to create healthier, more natural environments to reestablish ecosystem services and to prevent the loss of our wild plants and animals. We have been strongly influenced by Aldo Leopold and his “Land Ethic”. We strive to live up to his ideals and work for positive change. Good Oak Ecological Services is committed to supporting our community and providing a living wage for its employees and partners.
For more information, visit: www.goodoak.com