Agency Background:

The Virginia Department of Forestry’s (DOF) Office of Working Lands Preservation (OWL) works to conserve farms and forests of the Commonwealth to support continued and sustainable management of working lands. DOF works to preserve and protect the conservation values of The Commonwealth’s natural resources through education, land management, and permanent land protection. Our work helps Virginia ensure sustainable forest and agricultural resources are maintained and natural benefits such as clean air and water, wildlife habitat, and a continuous supply of forest and agricultural resources are available for future generations.

Job Description:

DOF is currently seeking a Conservation Stewardship Project Assistant (CSPA) to help maintain DOF’s easement portfolio of more than 230 properties, for over 100,000 acres. The CSPA will assist in daily management activities and record keeping of property management and landowner requests. The CSPA will also assist with field monitoring and other stewardship activities as needed.

The goal is to provide the Conservation Stewardship Project Assistant with real world, state government agency experience to enhance their marketability as an employee post-graduation. Working with DOF’s easement stewardship program will provide invaluable professional development opportunities to the successful applicant.

This position is best suited for:

• Graduate Urban Planning Program Students
• Undergraduate Urban Planning Program Students
• Undergraduate Environmental Science Program Students
• Undergraduate Policy Program Students

Desired Qualifications:

• Strong interest in natural resources conservation and land management.
• Experience with ArcGIS Pro and similar GIS software is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for forestry and agriculture.
• Understanding of open-space easements.
• Ability to read and comprehend legal documentation.
• Record keeping and organization skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including experience compiling and submitting detailed reports.
• The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with state and federal agencies, local planners, cooperators, and Virginia’s private landowners.

All interested candidates must be federal work study eligible, This is a paid intern position offering undergraduate students $18 per hour. .All Interested students should submit a resume and cove letter for further consideration of the hiring manager.

Position begins August 25 , 2026, (or later) and concludes May 14, 2027.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.