GIS Intern

The Waukesha County Land Conservancy (WCLC) is celebrating 22nd year of preserving and managing environmentally significant lands in Waukesha County. Since its origin in 1992 it has preserved over 2,700 acres.

The GIS Intern(s) will assist the Executive Director in producing maps of the land trust’s protected property and Properties within its Focus Areas. Interns should have a background in the natural sciences and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Some expectations of this position include strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as establishing a standard and procedures for electronically storing maps and shape files for future updates. The internship is unpaid and preferred for credit.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with Executive Director to create a project charter and timeline and update list of maps to produce.
• Create some or all of the following project deliverables: Protected Property Map, Maps for each Protected Property (e.g. Topographical, Soil, Habitat…), Focus Area Maps with SEWRPC Natural Areas & Critical Species Habitat & Targeted Properties Maps.
• Perform GIS analysis of properties to assist with research and determine conservation values based on mission objectives such as water quality, habitat and biodiversity, proximity to conserved lands, threat of development, cultural resources, scenic vistas, etc.
• Understand WCLC’s Project Selection Criteria and Focus Areas.
• Gather and review existing maps, various resources (e.g. Waukesha County Comprehensive Plan, SEWRPC Natural Area Plan, Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant Maps) and Land Trust Alliance (LTA) practices and resources.
• Understand relevant LTA Standards & Practices and identify better practices by researching examples from other Land Trusts located on the LTA Website.
• Review project with Executive Director biweekly in person or via net meeting.
• Commit 8-20 hrs/week with at least 4 hrs in WCLC office in Waukesha, WI.
• Present work to Land Protection Board Members at 2 meetings during the semester to obtain feedback on project and present final report at the end of semester.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND PERSONAL TRAITS:

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s or master’s degree with a major in the geography, natural sciences, geology, wildlife or landscape ecology, or similar.
• Working knowledge with GIS systems.
• Understanding of environment, land conservation, and natural resources.
• Self-starter; disciplined and motivated to further the mission of WCLC.
• Attention to detail, responsive and courteous communicator with strong interpersonal, verbal and writing skills.
• A team player; considerate and respectful of others.
• Able to meet deadlines and timely execute tasks.

TO APPLY:

Email or call Cheryl White at wclc@wi.rr.com or 262-821-2044 stating interest and background Recommended to send a resume.