The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) is seeking two college-level students for a 32 hr/week paid summer internship. Applications from underrepresented minorities are particularly encouraged. This ten-week opportunity is intended for undergraduate or graduate students from diverse backgrounds or cultures to explore options in the field of conservation.

FLLT recognizes that all people should benefit from land and water conservation efforts. We also recognize the need to do more to engage diverse communities that are underrepresented within the conservation field. As part of a broader effort to ensure that conservation benefits everyone, the FLLT is offering these two paid summer internships designed to bring diverse voices to the table and to foster a more inclusive work environment. Learn more about the FLLT’s commitment to diversity here.

The ten-week internship will focus on the FLLT’s stewardship program, and provide an introduction to all aspects of the organization’s operations. Approximately half of the intern’s time will be spent with stewardship staff and volunteers, working on various projects including the development of hiking trails and public access improvements, and the control of non-native invasive plant species.

The remaining half of the intern’s time will involve experiential learning within other departments and will introduce conservation real estate transactions, fundraising, and non-profit administration.

The internship provides an hourly wage with a range of $18.00-$18.45. The FLLT will provide transportation to any out-of-office work sites.

Eligibility

• Interest in pursuing a career in an environmental field.
• Minimum of one year of college completed.
• Capable of completing tasks that involve physical labor including working outdoors in all weather conditions and comfort traveling on foot in the woods, across steep terrain, and on large rural properties.
• Ability to use various power tools, or be willing to learn how.
• Be able to understand and read maps and orient oneself.
• Strong communication skills.
• Commitment to work for ten weeks out of the FLLT’s downtown office located in Ithaca, NY.

About the Finger Lakes Land Trust

The Finger Lakes Land Trust is a non-profit conservation organization that works cooperatively with landowners and local communities to conserve those lands and waters that are vital to the future of the 12-county region. To date, the FLLT has secured more than 30,000 acres of the region’s undeveloped shoreline, rugged gorges, majestic forests, and scenic farmland. The work of the FLLT is carried out by 19 paid staff and an extensive network of volunteers.

The Finger Lakes Land Trust is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other legally protected characteristics.

To Apply

Please send the following application information and documentation:

• Two references—one personal and one who can speak to either work or academic success.
• Personal statement (no more than one page in length) including the following information:
  • What interests you about land conservation and stewardship?
  • What makes you the best candidate for this opportunity?
  • Why is the work of bringing more diversity and inclusion in the area of conservation important to you?
• One of the following: a narrative of your work experience, a CV (Curriculum Vitae), or a resume.

Send via email to meghannwhitaker@fllt.org with Summer Internship in the subject field.

Or by mail to:

Finger Lakes Land Trust
202 East Court Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
ATTN: Summer Internship

You can also find this opportunity on Handshake.

Questions? Please call us at (607) 275-9487 and ask for Kait Marrin.

Applications received before March 15, 2025, will be prioritized.