The Conservation Intern: Land Management will gain valuable hands-on experience and professional skills in natural resource management and conservation ecology. Working at the 13,000-acre Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in southwestern Florida, the intern will assist with the implementation of an ecologically-sound land management program. This internship is dedicated to the Land Management program.
This paid full-time six-month internship will run from May 2019 through October 2019 and will not exceed 40 hours per week, with occasional weekend work, as needed.
On-site housing is required due to the relatively remote location of the Sanctuary and early field hours. Housing is a furnished one-level dormitory-style building with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two joined kitchens, a living room, and a screened porch. Wireless internet, water, electricity, and local phone service are provided. Rooms may be shared (gender inclusive) with other interns and the dormitory may be shared by interns, visiting researchers, AmeriCorps team members, or other special guests.
National Audubon Society is dedicated to building a culturally diverse organization and strongly encourages applications from people of color and women.
Under the guidance of Audubon staff, the intern will develop skills in a variety of conservation activities, including:
- Managing non-native, invasive and native nuisance species using a wide variety of tools such as herbicide sprayers, ATVs, swamp buggies, hand tools, and more;
- Helping with planning, execution, and follow-up monitoring of prescribed fire operations in a variety of natural habitats; and
- Communication and outreach through various avenues such as social media, print media, and more (as directed by supervising staff)
Interns are expected to assist with additional Sanctuary events and activities, as needed.
- Excel in interpersonal communications and interpersonal skills while maintaining a team-focused attitude;
- Demonstrate strong attention to detail in field, laboratory, and office activities.
- Possess a basic understanding of ecology and a desire to learn about conservation;
- Demonstrate the ability to exercise sound judgment and adaptability to changing work conditions;
- Possess a valid driver’s license (experience with ATVs, 4WD vehicles and the ability to operate a manual transmission is a plus); and
- Commit to the full duration of the internship (May 2019 through October 2019).
Physical requirements include:
- Ability to work long hours in the field in sub-tropical wetland environments, exposed to harsh South Florida environment (sun, biting insects, severe summer storms), sometimes alone and carrying field gear (up to 40 lbs.) for extended periods; and
- Ability and willingness to work in murky waters and thick vegetation that serve as home for potentially dangerous wildlife such as alligators and venomous snakes.