This opportunity is curated through the UF TESI Environmental Leaders Network. Opportunities posted through the Network may not be affiliated with the Florida Museum or TESI, but are shared with UF undergraduate students who want to learn more about environmental research, education and outreach, and civic engagement. 

Host Organization

Washington Trails Association

Type of Position

  • Professional Development/Internship
  • Field-based and remote/online project-based work
  • Full time from January 21 to April 25, 2025
  • $21/hour

Description

WTA is committed to creating systemic change by providing an entry point for early professional Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC) individuals. This internship-like structured program offers hands-on learning in trail maintenance and leadership building skills to support future career interests in natural resource stewardship, outdoor recreation and environmental nonprofit work. Members work in groups of five (four learning members and one program crew leader) and connect with outdoor professionals in various community-based positions across Seattle and Tacoma throughout the program.

In collaboration with Washington State Parks, cohort members will also have the opportunity to both job shadow and work on professional development projects in stewardship management, park planning and park operations.

Members will also learn, develop, and perform a variety of trail maintenance tasks in multiple parks around the Puget Sound; along with learning from WTA staff and meeting BIPOC trail staff from other outdoor organizations.

Responsibilities

Trail Maintenance Technical Skills (60%)

  • Complete trail work projects while practicing inclusive team leadership skills at work sites across the Greater Puget Sound region
  • Practice and increase knowledge in the importance of safety in trail maintenance events, such as risk management and proper usage of tools and equipment
  • Effectively manage emergency situations following WTA’s emergency response protocols
  • Positively represent WTA mission, programs, and membership in all interactions with volunteers, trail users, agency partners and others

Professional Development (40%)

  • Within the program there will be devoted work to professional development and educational opportunities

Eligibility

  • A deep understanding of experiences and community issues affecting Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC) and other affinity spaces
  • Growing interest in outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, natural resources, nonprofit or state agency work
  • Ability to work in an outdoor environment in inclement weather; some days may include hiking up to 6 miles on a variety of terrain
  • Ability to work 10-hour days when needed
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Available for the entirety of the 14-week program running January 21 to April 25, 2025
  • Desired, but not required: Any demonstrated experience building or maintaining hiking trails; or comparable experience with similar construction-based or environmental stewardship tasks.

Location

Greater Puget Sound Region

More Information

For an in-depth overview of the program, please refer to this document.

To Apply

Click on the following URL (https://forms.gle/sjH7R6offKP4FUnp7) to complete a brief application form.

Also submit a resume to seasonaljobs@wta.org with “ELP 2025 COHORT MEMBER APPLICATION” in the subject line.

Deadline to Apply

The position is open until filled, with priority given to applications received by November 1, 2024.

Contact

For any additional questions, please contact MJ Mahan (msampang@wta.org), Senior Community Partnership and Leadership Development Coordinator or Angelic Friday (afriday@wta.org), Emerging Leaders Program Project Coordinator.