Summer Ecological Restoration Internship: Field-Based

ParkLands Foundation; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 7,000 - 9,800; Full time

Job summary

ParkLands Foundation invites interns to participate in restoration and management of native landscapes across McLean and Woodford counties in Illinois. The program runs 11 weeks, with a starting wage of $16.00 per hour for up to 40 hours per week, May through August 2026, with early start options in heat periods.

Interns gain hands-on experience alongside professional land managers and biologists, including safety requirements such as a valid driver’s license and an herbicide operator’s license

Qualifications

• Background in biological/environmental sciences or related fields is preferred.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Interest in conservation, ecological restoration and natural area management.

Responsibilities

• Remove invasive vegetation and perform treatments at ParkLands Foundation sites.
• Learn to identify native and invasive plant species on site.
• Maintain trails, parking lots, and grounds.
• Engage with hikers, volunteers, and the local community.
• Work with land managers and biologists to learn restoration and monitoring techniques.
• Coordinate with the land steward for annual management activities and site visits.

Skills

Independent work

Self-motivation

Team collaboration

Education

Biological/environmental sciences

Ecology

Horticulture

Forestry

Job description

ParkLands Foundation invites interns to participate in restoration and management of native landscapes across McLean and Woodford counties in Illinois. The program runs 11 weeks, with a starting wage of $16.00 per hour for up to 40 hours per week, May through August 2026, with early start options in heat periods.

Interns gain hands-on experience alongside professional land managers and biologists, including safety requirements such as a valid driver’s license and an herbicide operator’s license