POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Monroe Conservation District is seeking a qualified individual to fill a part-time Outreach & Conservation Intern position. This position provides programmatic and technical assistance, community outreach, and administrative support to District operations with a focus on public engagement, educational activities, and assistance with the District’s annual conservation tree and plant sales.

The position is structured as a pathway opportunity, allowing the selected candidate to gain direct experience by working alongside the District’s Conservation Specialist. Based on performance, funding availability, and District needs, this position may transition into a full-time Conservation Specialist position with benefits in late summer/early fall, subject to board approval.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Assist with District outreach and education activities, including community events, workshops, and partner engagement
• Provide support for planning, coordination, and implementation of the annual Spring Tree Sale and Native Plant Sale, including preparation, customer assistance, and order distribution.
• Assist in the delivery of local, state, and federal conservation programs including documentation, data organization, field work, and administrative support.
• Shadow and assist the Conservation Specialist in the delivery of conservation programs and landowner assistance.
• Perform additional office and field duties as assigned to support District operations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

A strong candidate must meet one or both of the Education and Experience qualifications below, along with all of the following Skills and Abilities:

Education & Experience

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Soil Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university,

            OR

• Minimum of two or more years of experience in agriculture or natural resource management with ample knowledge and experience working on farms and an understanding of different systems of agriculture and habitat management.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small team environment.
• Ability to interact professionally with the public, landowners, and partner agencies.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications (Google suite, Microsoft Office suite).
• Able and willing to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain year.
• Able to lift and handle materials up to 30 pounds without assistance.
• Able to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license and safe driving record.
• Access to dependable internet for remote working when necessary.
• Selected candidate must pass a federal background check, must have a reliable personal vehicle to get to work and occasionally use for work activities and travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience working with a conservation district, government agency, and/or natural resource organization.
• Familiarity with USDA Farm Bill conservation programs, local and state initiatives, and/or landowner technical assistance related to natural resource management.
• Knowledge of and experience working with agricultural producers and best management practices.
• Experience collaborating on, developing, and delivering agriculture education programs to a variety of audiences in diverse settings.
• Working knowledge of databases and data management systems.
• Working knowledge of ESRI’s ArcGIS suite.

WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL, & COMPENSATION

• Approximately 16 hours per week, generally scheduled over two 8-hour days
• Hourly wage: $17.00 per hour
• Schedule may vary during peak program periods, occasional weekend commitments can be expected
• Expect regular travel to events, regional meetings, and field sites around Monroe County and SE Michigan as needed

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITY

This position is intended to support succession planning and staff development. The successful candidate may be considered for transition into a full-time Conservation Specialist position with full pay and benefits in August/September 2026, contingent upon satisfactory performance, programmatic needs, funding availability, and board approval.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Monroe Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable state and federal employment laws.