Student Natural Assistant UW-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve

The Student Natural Areas Assistant position supports a variety of land management and site maintenance activities within the 300-acre University of Wisconsin-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve. The position operates in coordination with Preserve staff as part of a four-person student crew under the general supervision of the Field Projects Coordinator.

Field work focuses largely on vegetation management, including invasive species monitoring, mapping and control (manual removal, mechanical mowing/cutting, herbicide application), planting/seeding native species, and other activities supporting long-term land management goals. The crew gains experience with a variety of common tools and techniques used in ecological restoration and supports routine maintenance of Picnic Point fire circles and public gathering spaces, as well as monitoring and care for the Preserve’s 12 miles of trails.

Successful candidates will interact in a positive, professional manner with Preserve visitors, students, and academic users, and establish a productive working relationship with Preserve staff and volunteers.