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Apply for internship at Land and Forest Iceland

Application for internship

In General

Interns work alongside staff at Land and Forest Iceland on a variety of tasks that vary according to location and season. Placements may include a combination of fieldwork, assisting researchers, trail maintenance and other practical activities.

Practical Forestry Work

Interns receive training and experience in practical forestry work, including:

  • Tree planting.

  • Fence maintenance.

  • Pre-commercial thinning and young forest management.

  • Small-scale timber processing, including firewood production and related activities.

In some areas, work may also include the maintenance of trails within national forest recreation areas. Land and Forest Iceland operates a dedicated trail maintenance programme in the Þórsmörk Nature Reserve. Information about this programme and application details can be found at trailteam.is.

Research Assistant Placements

The Research and Monitoring Division of Land and Forest Iceland offers internship opportunities for forestry students in Reykjavík, and at other locations around Iceland. Typical projects include:

  • Assisting with forestry research projects

  • Assessing long-term field trials

Interns may also have the opportunity to assist researchers with forest inventory and monitoring work.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for motivated and mature individuals who can work both independently and as part of a team. Applicants must be current undergraduate or postgraduate students in forestry or a related field, with a strong interest in forestry, environmental management and ecosystem restoration.

We welcome applicants who enjoy outdoor work and have experience of outdoor activities. As Iceland's weather can be highly variable, interns should be prepared with warm clothing, sturdy footwear and durable waterproof clothing.

Due to the physical nature of the work and the remote location of many project sites, participants must be in good physical condition.

For practical forestry placements, basic chainsaw training is desirable.

Eligibility and Practical Information

Internships are open to current forestry students who are at least 20 years of age.

Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their travel to and from Iceland, as well as obtaining appropriate travel insurance.

Once accepted onto the programme, interns are provided with accommodation and meals throughout their placement, including weekends.

Cost

There is no participation fee.