Internship Opportunity

Kentucky Association for Environmental Education and Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve.

This internship opportunity is offered in partnership with the Kentucky Association for Environmental Education (KAEE). KAEE serves as the fiscal sponsor for the position, while the location and responsibilities are set by the host site. Funding provided by the US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.  Learn more about KAEE at kaee.org.

About the Host Site – Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve

Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve is a non-profit public charity nature preserve dedicated by Virginia Creasey Mahan and Howard Mahan to enrich the community through conservation, education, and community enjoyment. The Nature Preserve is a scenic 170-acre family-friendly destination located in Goshen, Kentucky (about 25 minutes northeast of Louisville). To learn more about this special site, visit www.KYNaturePreserve.org.

There are many forestry and land-related projects on the property including site preparation for reforestation efforts, tree and shrub establishment, habitat development, brush/invasive species management, and collection and germination of native seeds. Some work may occur within Creasey Mahan’s two high-tunnel (greenhouse) operations.

Location: Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve – 12501 Harmony Landing Road, Goshen, KY 40026

Applicant Requirements

• Be a current college student, recent college graduate, or high school graduate with experience outdoors.
  • Per federal requirements, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
    • Attended a high school where 80% or more of students receive free/reduced lunch, or
    • Live in a disadvantaged community (as identified by the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool)
  • Interest in forestry and/or conservation-related careers.
  • Have your own transportation.
  • Be able to work outside in wooded areas, grassy meadows, and along miles of trails.
  • Availability: June through August, Monday-Friday 8:30 am – 3:00 pm.

Compensation

$18/hour minimum, varying based on experience and education.

Responsibilities

• Listen and be willing to take yourself out of your comfort zone to learn new skills.
• Follow staff instructions and safety guidelines.
• Show up each day scheduled on time, ready, and willing to work to your best capabilities.
• Assist with ongoing projects regarding site preparation, brush management, tree and shrub establishment, and habitat development.
• Assist in the collection, germination, and labeling of native seed species.
• Once trained, safely operate power tools, chainsaws, string trimmers, and heavy equipment.
• Use hand tools such as loppers, shears, hatchets, axes, pickaxes.
• Assist with various jobs that help keep the operation running smoothly.
• Complete and submit paperwork in a timely manner.

How to Apply

Email resume and cover letter to info@kynaturepreserve.org.

Thank you and good luck!