Forest Restoration Ecology Intern

About the Job

The Forest Ecology lab in the Department of Forest Resources at the University of Minnesota, funded through the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center, seeks undergraduate or recently graduated students with a background or interest in field biology, ecology, environmental science, forestry, or a related field for paid field research internships. Interns will take vital roles in several large scale experiments that ask how to use native plant species (trees, shrubs, grasses, wildflowers) to suppress buckthorn re-invasion and improve restoration of buckthorn-invaded woodlands and forests in the Twin Cities metro area.

Duties vary by season and project and include establishing new experiments (site delineation and planting);
Re-locating experimental units; monitoring the growth of experimental plants, both buckthorn and planted species; measuring light availability; measuring plant species composition; weeding experimental plots; maintaining deer fences; removing fallen trees; and generally assisting with experimental needs. Interns will work as a team (or occasionally solo, for example with data entry), supervised by researchers.

Duration

* April - September 2026, (start and end dates flexible)

* Full season internships could run from the start of April until at least the end of September, potentially mid October. Shorter internships are possible within this timeframe. For example, spring internships that focus on planting new experiments would run April - May. Summer internships could run May/June - August/September.

Hours

* Full-time (40 hrs/week) in summer; part-time in spring/fall

* Summer (mid May - end August):
Full time (approximately 40 hours per week);
Spring and fall (April, early May, September):
Full time or part time. Part time interns need to be available for large time blocks (at least 4 hours, preferably a full day) some days each week to make it worthwhile, given the need for travel time to sites.

Location

* 65% Field Work

* 20% Flexible

* 15% St. Paul Campus

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

* High school diploma or equivalent.

* Interest in field biology, ecology, forestry, restoration, plant propagation or environmental science

* Dependable, motivated, with integrity and a strong work ethic

* Strong skills in communicating and working with other team members across differences

* Flexible team structure: work solo or as a pair or trio for different tasks

* Attention to detail in repetitive work, and diligent adherence to standardized protocols

* Flexible work hours: adapt daily plans to weather; early starts in summer to beat the heat; some post-sunset light measurements will likely be needed during late summer

* Willing to work with plants in a wide range of field conditions across the Twin Cities, including varied weather, steep terrain, and biting insects

* Strong organizational skills, and proficiency in Google Drive for data management

* Ability to walk lightly in the woods from plot to plot causing minimal damage to vegetation and frequently bend, squat, kneel, or otherwise reach the ground to perform tasks at ground level for up to 8 hours (aside from breaks provided for by state law)

* Access to a reliable vehicle to reach the multiple field sites, up to 34 miles from the University of Minnesota St. Paul campus (mileage reimbursement available).

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience identifying woody and herbaceous plants in Twin Cities area woodlands

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $16.00 - $23.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Applications must include the following:

* CV/resume;

* Cover letter that includes responses to the following questions

* What are your desired start and end dates?

* What, if any, absences do you have planned or anticipate between these dates?

* What are your desired total hours per week? If you are applying for part-time in spring and full-time in summer, please indicate your hours for each period separately.

* Which days of the week and times of day can you consistently work, especially if you are applying for a…