Roadside/Trail Vegetation Management Intern
Back to Job List| Posted | 03/03/2026 |
|---|---|
| County | Polk |
| Location | Des Moines, Iowa |
| Salary | 16-17/hour |
| Deadline | 03/20/2026 |
Description
SHARED POSITION WITH POLK COUNTY CONSERVATION
Polk County Public Works (in partnership with Polk County Conservation) is looking to hire an intern to assist with the Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management (IRVM) program. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for an entry level position in natural resources. Their duties will mainly include field work along secondary roads and paved bike trails, but also some wetland and streams. Other work includes office duties and opportunities for education/outreach work. These duties are expected to include:
- Assist with chemical and mechanical control of invasive plant and woody species
- Assist with planting native vegetation and maintaining previous plantings
- IRVM program outreach and communication
- Maintain accurate records of vegetation management activities.
- Harvest native prairie seed
- Maintain tools and equipment
We are looking for someone that has knowledge of the basic principles of natural resources and conservation. Ability to operate trucks and trailers, UTVs, chemical sprayers, hydroseeders, chainsaws and other related equipment. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Also detailed understanding of ArcGIS and proficient with spreadsheet, word processing, and presentation software.
We are interested in an applicant that has any combination of training and experience equivalent to two years of college with course work in natural resources, engineering, water resources or a related field. Category 6 pesticide applicator certification preferred.
Vegetation Management Intern position will be full time, 40 hours per week from May 26 until August 7.
Wage: $16.00- $17.00 per hour. Benefits are not included with the position. Please submit an email of interest and your resume to ryan.mcpherren@polkcountyiowa.gov
Application deadline 4:00 pm Friday, March 20.
Qualifications
Any combination of training and experience equivalent to two years of college with course work in natural resources, engineering, water resources, or related field. Category 6 pesticide applicator certification preferred.
To Apply
Please submit an email of interest and your resume to ryan.mcpherren@polkcountyiowa.gov.
