Job OThe SAE Intern will assist the City with the implementation, maintenance, monitoring, and documentation of urban forestry and environmental improvement projects funded through grant programs. This position is designed to provide hands-on experience in tree planting, tree care, environmental stewardship, data collection, and grant compliance while supporting the City's long-term community beautification and sustainability goals.
The intern will work approximately 20 hours per week for 12 weeks each year over a three-year grant period. Work will be performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and may require physical labor, recordkeeping, and interaction with city staff, volunteers, and community members.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Tree Planting and Urban Forestry Activities
- Assist with the planting of trees in parks, public rights-of-way, and other designated public spaces.
- Assist in the selection, placement, and inventory of trees according to approved planting plans.
- Support city staff during community tree planting events and educational activities.
Tree Care and Maintenance
- Water newly planted trees according to established maintenance schedules.
- Assist with pruning, mulching, staking adjustments, and general tree health maintenance.
- Monitor trees for signs of disease, insect infestations, environmental stress, or damage.
- Report maintenance needs and tree health concerns to supervisory staff.
- Assist with routine landscape maintenance associated with planted trees and project areas.
Grant Documentation and Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of work performed, materials used, volunteer participation, and project milestones.
- Assist in compiling information required for grant reporting and compliance documentation.
- Organize project files, photographs, attendance records, and other supporting documentation.
- Help prepare progress updates, summaries, and reports for city administration and grant agencies.
- Ensure documentation meets grant requirements and established timelines.
Community Outreach and Support
- Interaction with the public on a daily basis
- Assist with public education efforts related to tree planting, environmental stewardship, and urban forestry initiatives.
- Participate in community events and volunteer workdays as assigned.
- Provide courteous assistance and information to residents regarding project activities.
- Represent the City in a professional and positive manner at all times.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to perform outdoor physical labor, including lifting, carrying, digging, bending, kneeling, and standing for extended periods.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Basic understanding of landscaping, horticulture, forestry, environmental science, or related fields is preferred.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel, is preferred.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to communicate effectively with city staff, volunteers, and the public.
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- High school student, college student, or recent graduate with an interest in forestry, environmental science, horticulture, natural resources, agriculture, biology, parks and recreation, or a related field preferred.
- Possession of a valid driver's license is preferred but not required.
- Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Physical Requirements
- Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Walk on uneven terrain and work in outdoor environments.
- Perform repetitive motions associated with planting and maintenance activities.
- Work in varying temperatures, weather conditions, and exposure to dust, dirt, insects, and vegetation.
Employment Terms
- Temporary grant-funded internship position.
- Up to 20 hours per week for approximately 12 weeks annually.
- Flexible scheduling may be available based on project needs and academic schedules.
Supervision Received
The SAE Intern works under the direct supervision of the City Administrator, Public Works Director, Parks Department Supervisor, or designated project manager and performs duties in accordance with established city policies and grant requirements.
This internship provides valuable hands-on experience in urban forestry, environmental stewardship, grant administration, public service, and municipal operations.
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Pay: $18.00 - $18.50 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
