Conservation Programs Internship

Job Description

The conservation programs intern plays a vital role at INHF by writing grants that provide funding for land conservation and other INHF projects. 

Work Examples

The conservation programs intern applies to two major grant cycles during the summer. State Recreational Trails grants are due July 1st. Past successful grant applications have funded Iowa River’s Edge Trail and Red Rock Prairie Trail. Resource Enhancement and Protection grants are due August 15th. Past successful grant applications have funded additions to Heritage Hills Wildlife Management Area, Mann Wetlands, and Magnetic Park. Other grant applications will be submitted as they arise throughout the summer.

Interns will have an opportunity to do a personal research project that supports INHF grant strategy, such as compiling emerging stewardship trends and techniques, a report on current issues and opportunities in wildlife or plant conservation, or a report on regenerative farming programs in the Midwest. 

Interns have also assisted with INHF volunteer events and have written for the INHF blog, and will have a chance to be on the land to get first hand experience with conservation. 

Skills/Qualifications

This position is open to all majors and skill sets and requires a high level of independence, initiative, and ability to adapt. The most successful applicants will have a passion for conserving Iowa’s land, water and wildlife, are curious and strategic thinkers with strong writing skills (especially in persuasive and analytical works), have an interest in nonprofit and mission-centered operations, and have some knowledge of Iowa’s native ecosystems.

The position is open to both undergraduate and graduate students; applicants must be attending an Iowa school or originally be from Iowa.

Availability

This position is full-time with flexible hours up to 40 hours/week, beginning in May and ending in August. This is a paid position at a rate of $15/hour.

There is an opportunity to blend working from our downtown Des Moines office, working from home, and working in the field.

Questions

To learn more about the conservation programs internship, contact Amanda Acton, Grants Coordinator at aacton@inhf.org

Application information

Application period for the summer 2026 position has concluded. 

If you have questions about the application process, please contact Kari Walker, human resources director, at kwalker@inhf.org.