What We Can Achieve Together:
The Colorado College Charlie Blumenstein Stewardship Assistant performs and participates in research monitoring management operations maintenance and visitation on The Nature Conservancys Carpenter Ranch Preserve. The 906-acre Carpenter Ranch preserve is managed as a platform for community-based conservation and is an active position has an emphasis on water and wildlife conservation that will be integrated with work alongside preserve managers on adaptive management of the ecologically and historically significant property opportunities to engage with visitors and community partners and strategic initiatives in northwest Colorado that include conservation of ecosystems water and sustainable livelihoods. This is a 10.5-week position starting June 1 2026 through August 12 2026.
The Colorado College Charlie Blumenstein Stewardship Assistant assists with water and wildlife-focused research on The Nature Conservancys Carpenter Ranch and other properties in the Yampa River Conservation Area as well as completing priority management and maintenance tasks to support conservation visitation and agricultural operations. Following a one-week orientation and training the Stewardship Assistant will live in housing on the Carpenter Ranch Preserve. This person will gain valuable experience in conservation science on-the-ground stewardship and environmental education and outreach projects with an emphasis on water and wildlife conservation. Duties include working with staff and volunteers to: collect data and monitor rivers streams other natural features plants animal species and/or other natural communities; map natural resources and facilities; repair and maintain trails fences buildings tools and equipment; greet and guide visitors; patrol open and close preserve buildings; respond to visitor inquiries; administer and coordinate volunteer days and gather and synthesize information relevant to Yampa River Conservation Area strategies.
Are you looking for a career to help people and nature Guided by science TNC creates innovative on-the-ground solutions to our worlds toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. Were looking for someone who is passionate motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!
RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
Work independently and in team settings.
Interact with visitors donors and other diverse guests providing a safe and positive experience.
Completion of an independent project relevant to the position and conservation for presentation at the end of the position.
Completion of the TNC Youth Certifications.
Lead groups of youth while performing stewardship activities.
Work in variable weather conditions in remote locations on difficult terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
Perform work requiring considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain including using hand and power tools (weed trimmers lawn mowers).
Work may necessitate long hours holidays and weekends as needed.
High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience
Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. lawn mower UTV ATV or OHV two-way radio or similar equipment)
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g. First Aid CPR)
Must be a Colorado College student working toward completion of an undergraduate degree program returning for a minimum of one academic semester after summer 2026
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
Ability to work in a team environment.
Ability to obtain a drivers license and maintain a good driving record.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Accommodation is provided at the Carpenter Ranch Preserve. At times this may require a shared living space with other visiting staff. Transportation to work locations is provided.
In your cover letter please describe one experience you have had with water and/or wildlife conservation and why it was meaningful to you. This could be an academic professional or personal experience. Please limit to 500 words or fewer.
The hourly pay for this role will be $17.00 an hour for a 35-hour a week position and will include housing for the duration of the seasonal position. The position will be classified as non-exempt.
The Nature Conservancys mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization we create innovative on-the-ground solutions to our worlds toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. Were rooted in our mission and guided by our values which include respect for all people communities and cultures. Whether its career development flexible schedules or a rewarding mission theres many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are addition to the requirements in our job postings we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicants unique experience. Please apply wed love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC youll join for the mission and stay for the people.
Since 1951 TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members over 400 scientists and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits flexible spending accounts a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match parental leave accrued paid time off life insurance disability coverage employee assistance program other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
Were proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
Employees must submit their application by logging into Workday and applying via the Jobs Hub.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures races colors religions sexes national or regional origins ages disability status sexual orientation gender identity military protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancys background screening process.
Do you have military experience Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability please send a note to with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.
Required Experience:
Junior IC
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