Job announcement - We are hiring two conservation interns!

West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District is looking for two uniquely talented and experienced individuals to join our team. We’re hiring one Field Conservation Intern and one GIS & Field Conservation Intern for the 2025 field season.

Both internships are part-time. Please visit our website to learn more about the positions and how to apply:  

https://wmswcd.org/2024/12/2025-conservation-internships/

Two positions: 1) Field Conservation Intern, and 2) GIS & Field Conservation Intern

Location: Portland, Oregon

Pay: $20.38/hr

Work hours: Average of 20 hrs/week, 2-3 days/week

Application deadline: Friday, January 13th, 2025 by 5:00pm (PST)

The minimum qualifications for education and/or experience include:

• Experienced with plant identification: Proficient in recognizing and naming common plants of the Pacific Northwest, trained in the use of plant identification resources, knowledgeable of plant anatomy and/or traditional ecological knowledge of plants and first foods
• Skilled in the use of Microsoft Excel and Word software (or similar): Ability to enter data, create graphs and compose written documents incorporating text, pictures, and tables
• Ability to work outdoors under a range of conditions and terrain with or without reasonable accommodations
• Willingness to work outside in inclement weather and on rough terrain, hand-pull weeds and work with and apply herbicides (using hand-operated sprayers) alongside licensed District staff members -- after being provided training and obtaining a trainee license
• GIS & Field Conservation Intern position ONLY - Proficient in ArcGIS mapping software: Ability to import, create, and edit both spatial and attribute data in ArcGIS (ArcMap, ArcPro or QGIS) and to create readable maps that incorporate clear symbology and basic cartography elements such as labels, keys and scale references

Other desired experience, abilities and attributes include:

• Previous participation in an environmental workforce development program (such as, but not limited to: Green Jobs Internship and Training Program, Verde, Wisdom Workforce, Blueprint Foundation/Connecting Canopies, Friends of Tryon Interns, Greenspaces Restoration and Urban Naturalist Team/TNT, TALON, POIC or Northwest Youth Corps)
• Active enrollment in a vocational/trade or associates degree program with a demonstrated interest in natural sciences, natural resource management, environmental education, or another related field
• Personal and professional commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, including exploration of power and privilege, a willingness to self-reflect, and experience engaging with marginalized communities and individuals in a welcoming and respectful manner
• Experience collecting field data and maintaining field notes
• Proven ability to maintain positive, cooperative relationships with others, and conducts work in a professional manner

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The District staff and board strive to build and sustain an inclusive environment that embraces and values diversity and fosters fairness, equity, inclusion and belonging. Interns are expected to contribute to an inclusive environment with staff and constituents and are invited to participate in equity training and explore issues and opportunities the District’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) committee.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We are most interested in finding a candidate who will succeed in this role, and understand that all candidates may not have experiences that seem to meet the listed Minimum and Desired qualifications. Your work, education and lived/personal experiences may still count towards these qualifications. If you are excited about this position, we encourage you to apply. 

The District is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. The District does not discriminate based on any class or identity including age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and veteran status. For questions about the application process, or to request an accommodation to access and participate in this recruitment, email hiring@wmswcd.org or call (503) 238-4775, ext. 100 and leave a voicemail message with your name, phone number and inquiry.