I.          BASIC FUNCTION OR PURPOSE OF POSITION POST is offering a flexible (32-40 hours a week), six-month internship opportunity in support of POST’s conservation easement stewardship.  This is a terrific opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector with a nationally-recognized land conservation organization. The intern will become part of and contribute to a high-functioning team and gain insights into land management, stewardship, conservation easement monitoring, and landowner relations. General tasks consist of preparation and filing of materials for conservation easement monitoring, fieldwork assistance, research projects, database organization, and/or other projects as requested. This position reports to the Conservation Easement Manager. 

II.        ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THIS JOB 

• Assist with preparation for annual conservation easement monitoring visits.  
• Tasks include organizing field binders, creating photo compilations, scheduling visits, preparing pre-monitoring letters, reviewing previous reports, etc. 
• Participate in annual conservation easement monitoring visits, including both on-ground site visits and remote monitoring.   
• Tasks include taking field notes, navigating, photo documentation of observations, etc. 
• Assist with follow-up tasks after annual monitoring visits.  
• Tasks include organizing photo documentation, coordinating with GIS team for updates to Photo Point maps, preparing monitoring reports and post-monitoring letters, updating monitoring field binders, etc. 
• Research ways to improve the quality and efficiency of conservation easement monitoring.   
• Attend webinars, review materials and participate in community conversations. 
• Research methods of incorporating new processes to improve efficiency and/or quality of monitoring 
• Aid in implementing process improvements, including organization of POST’s Salesforce database system and review of historical files.  

III.       KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED TO PERFORM THIS JOB 

• Have a background and/or interest in land conservation; 
• In the process of obtaining or has obtained an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree; 
• Up-to-date computer skills and a willingness to learn and utilize POST’s Salesforce database system and other programs; 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; 
• Self-motivated and flexible; 
• Ability to take initiative and produce desired results; 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; 
• Ability to effectively collaborate with a variety of individuals and groups; 

VI.       PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Regular and accurate communication with others and completion of work tasks involving the use of phone, computer, web, and video technology, the ability to interact effectively with digital and printed materials, and to operate required job-related equipment. 
• Ability to drive a vehicle to remote locations for on-ground site visits. 
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 lbs. of monitoring binders, and onsite visit equipment such as first aid kits or backpacks.  
• Ability to traverse uneven or rough terrain, and to tolerate exposure to outdoor elements and varying weather conditions. This position requires on-ground site visit hikes of various levels of elevation and duration. 
• Reasonable accommodations will be made to allow a person to perform essential functions.

If you would like to apply:   Please submit your resume with a cover letter explaining your interest in POST and your dates of availability. Make sure to address any pertinent experience, including professional and personal experience, that is relevant to this position.      

Pay and benefits:   This is a temporary position and carries no discretionary benefits except for state mandated sick leave. Exact timing and scheduling can be flexible to accommodate the appropriate candidate. Pay is $25.00 per hour. POST’s office is located in downtown Palo Alto near public transportation, and we will provide a Caltrain Go Pass if needed.      

POST’s Core Values:      

Nature Connects Us All: We believe that we are part of an interconnected web of life and that diversity of all types creates strength and resilience. In our work, we strive to protect and heal the ecosystems that support our collective well-being.      

Act Today for the Long-Term: We take action today in ways that support our bold, long-term vision. We accept and balance the tension between the present and the future while staying true to our purpose.      

Commit to Learning and Growth: We are creative, curious and courageous in our approaches and willing to change course when necessary. We learn from our successes and mistakes. 

Care About How We Work: We believe all living things should be treated with dignity. We acknowledge the many injustices against people and nature. We are dedicated to strive for equity in our actions.      

Honor Our Collective Strengths: We have the most positive impact when we work together toward a shared vision. We catalyze, collaborate and complement to support the best outcomes for all.      POST is an equal opportunity employer. We believe diversity and equity is central to our mission to protect open space in our region for the benefit of all. We are committed to creating an inclusive, values-driven workplace where all employees can thrive. Come join us!