Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park provides the opportunity for one intern to gain experience in community engagement and conservation of Virginia’s native species. Virginia Working Landscapes (VWL) is a program of the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) that focuses on biodiversity and landscape conservation through grassland and riparian research, education, and community engagement.
Duties and responsibilities: This is a paid internship opportunity through the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, interns will assist with the following as they gain important experience with conservation science and engagement: -Create content for the website and other outreach materials. -Develop communications and event planning skills by assisting with outreach events and meetings with stakeholders, key conservation organizations and partners in the region. -Learn to work with a variety of stakeholders including landowners and partnering organizations in the area on events and adding additional biodiversity survey sights. -Learn data management skills and how to input data from recent surveys and help manage large spreadsheets. -Assist with creating outreach documents including reports, flyers, etc. -Assist with managing output from an array of projects to be carried out by graduate students, other interns, and citizen scientists. -Learn technical skills and provide assistance using programs such as ArcGIS and Excel. -Learn and assist with field work for the 2017 season as needed, including grassland survey set-up and detailed and accurate data collection for plant and pollinator surveys. -A brief report will be required of interns at the conclusion of their tenure. Qualifications: -Candidates should have graduated from a college or university within the last 12 months and have undergraduate coursework in ecology, conservation biology or a closely related field. -Candidates should have experience and interest in education and outreach as well as a passion for conservation efforts. -Knowledge and field experience with ecology and conservation issues is required. -High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data management experience is required. -Knowledge of native Virginia grassland bird, pollinator, and plant species is a plus. -Ability to work in the field in all conditions when not in office. -Will take directions easily and work well with others, yet have the ability to work independently. -Individuals with previous field survey experience, and spatial data management and analysis skills (e.g. GIS) are especially encouraged to apply. -Applicants should have plans for continued education or a career in conservation. Stipend: The stipend is $700 per month. Housing is provided at SCBI. Term of appointment: This is a six month internship, starting March 6, 2017 and is a full- time appointment (40 hours per week). There is an opportunity for extension up to a year. To Apply: Application deadline is February 10th, 2017. To apply, please visit: https://nationalzoo.si.edu/careers/internships/virginia-working- landscapes-outreach-internship -Unofficial transcripts accepted -Letters of recommendation are encouraged, but not required -Please contact Charlotte Lorick at [email protected] for questions
