Balsam Mountain Trust is seeking applications for the position of: Research and Conservation Intern  

Balsam Mountain Trust is seeking a dependable, enthusiastic, paid summer intern who is excited to gain experience in wildlife and plant conservation and field research on the Balsam Mountain Preserve.  

Balsam Mountain Preserve is a private housing community located just outside of Sylva, NC in the Great Balsam mountains. Approximately 3300 acres of the Preserve are protected through a conservation easement with the North American Land Trust. Ranging in elevation from 2700 to 5300 feet, the Preserve is home to a variety of forest types, four major streams, three NC Natural Heritage Areas, and a rich and diverse biological community.  

The Balsam Mountain Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization located on the Preserve. The mission of Balsam Mountain Trust is to inspire people to be responsible stewards of the natural and cultural resources of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. The Trust takes an active role in the stewardship of the Preserve and provides leadership in education, conservation, and scientific research. For more information, visit www.bmtrust.org.  

Details: 

• May 2024 to August 2024 
• Official dates to be discussed with intern based on availability 
• 20-24 hours per week position  
• A set schedule will be determined with the intern  
• May adjust for college intern credit requirements 
• $15/hr 

Responsibilities:  

The intern’s primary responsibility will be assisting in research and conservation field work. Projects may include (but are not limited to): 

• Stream monitoring, to include macroinvertebrate and physical/chemical sampling 
• Rare plant surveys, monitoring, and conservation work 
• Non-native invasive plant mitigation efforts 
• Wildlife monitoring (bird, insect, camera and acoustic monitoring) 
• Assisting with volunteer work days and citizen science projects 
• Summarizing findings for social media and informal science outreach 
• Help with nature center operation, as needed 

Qualifications and Skills:  

• High School Diploma, or equivalent.  
• Must be at least 18 years of age; be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States; have a legal driver’s license; and consent to a criminal history check.  
• Preference will be given to applicants pursuing college degrees in a related field. 
• Strong interest in the natural world. Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated experience in plant and/or animal identification. Previous conservation/field work experience a plus.  
• Good attention to detail and ability to stay focused while conducting repetitive tasks.  
• Demonstrated computer abilities in Microsoft Office suite, especially Word, Excel, PowerPoint; GIS, webpage, or social media background a plus. 
• Ability to be on your feet most of the day, withstand summer weather conditions, lift 30 pounds, and hike in rugged, mountainous terrain. 
• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively, creatively, and effectively with people of all ethnic, socio-economic, lifestyle and cultural backgrounds. 
• Excellent communication skills. 

Compensation: $15/hr for up to 12 weeks at 24 hours/week. In addition to financial compensation, the intern will gain experience working with a small non-profit nature-based organization. The intern will be invited/encouraged to attend education programs given by nature center staff and partners.  

Please send a letter of interest outlining your background, interest in the position, and what you hope to gain from your internship, along with a resume and the names and contact information of two references (at least one of whom should be a professor/teacher) to: 

Amy Duggins 

Community Science Coordinator 

Balsam Mountain Trust 

aduggins@bmtrust.org 

Applications will be considered beginning on April 19, 2024. Position open until filled.