Natural Lands Management in Central Illinois

This internship program is designed for students interested in environmental conservation, natural lands management, ecological restoration, plant identification, and the preservation of Illinois natural areas. The position is 40 hours per week, will require physical labor outdoors, some knowledge of Illinois plants, a strong sense of self-motivation, self-discipline, and dedication to the job. Interns must also be capable of following specific directions, be able to work alone and with others: instructors, site stewards, land managers, other interns, land owners, GPF board members and volunteers. For more information, contact Jamie Ellis.


General Information:

  • Two full-time internship positions are available for summer 2012.
  • Applications are due March 23, 2012.
  • The internship begins on or about May 15 and continues until the end of August 2012 (start and end times are flexible); positions are 40 hours per week.
  • The stipend is $9.00 per hour including $300 in mileage reimbursement expenses for personal vehicle use.
  • Interns will work both independently and with others including volunteers, stewards, and professionals.
  • Interns may use the GPF truck, or provide their own transportation ($300 in mileage reimbursement available). A valid driver's license is required.
  • An herbicide applicator's license is required; this will be obtained at the start of the internship.

Internship Goals:

  • Experience hands-on natural lands management by removing invasive vegetation from GPF sites;
  • Learn to identify native and invasive plant species;
  • Meet professional land managers and biologists and learn management, restoration, and monitoring techniques from them;
  • Coordinate with GPF site stewards to perform annual management activities;
  • Assist with GPF activities, site visits, and work days;
  • Learn the importance of managing our natural area remnants;
  • Maintain local school prairie gardens;
  • Collect native plant seeds;
  • Contribute to management database for GPF sites.

Application Instructions:

    Please submit the following items electronically to Jamie Ellis by March 23, 2012:
  • A letter of application;
  • A résumé stating your educational background, employment history and relevant experience;
  • Names and contact information of three references;
  • Three completed reference forms. Please provide a separate reference form for each reference provider.