Point Blue Conservation Science is seeking two interns interested in bird ecology, ecological restoration, and climate change science to train as part of the next generation of climate-smart conservation scientists. These positions are based in the northern Sierra Nevada in Chester, CA.
Duration:
2 May – 7 August, 2020
Job description and duties:
This internship is focused on gaining practical knowledge of bird ecology in relation to climate-smart adaptation strategies and acquiring skills to implement, assess, and promote those strategies in montane meadow habitats. Training will focus on bird ecology and low-tech, process-based riparian restoration in montane meadow habitats. Here the intern will receive training on identifying, surveying, and nest searching for bird species that breed in montane meadows, as well as gain exposure to mist netting, bird banding, and our restoration and conservation partners. Interns completing our program leave with a comprehensive knowledge base, including the ability to design and implement conservation research and ensure data are incorporated effectively into data management systems and resource management planning efforts. Interns will complete a final project that synthesizes their new knowledge about climate-smart conservation.
The interns will learn concepts and skills in the following areas:
– Field methods in ecological and conservation research with emphasis on nest searching, nest monitoring, territory mapping, and vegetation surveys
– Understanding the scientific process and the role of natural history observation in guiding meaningful research and conservation
– Critical thinking and evaluation of research and conservation
– Climate-smart conservation and restoration
– Skills in data management and data integrity
– Exposure to mist netting and banding songbirds
Qualifications:
– A background in ecology, environmental studies, or related field (degree obtained or in-pursuit)
– Ability to navigate cross-country in wet meadow environments
– Be self-motivated and have a sense of humor
– Willingness to spend long hours in the field and office, 6 days a week
– Be able to work independently, as well as in groups
– Desire to improve upon professional skills needed to facilitate conservation action
– Position may require the use of a personal vehicle. If a personal vehicle is used, interns must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and agree to conducting a motor vehicle report. Interns will be reimbursed Federal rate of $0.58 per mile for using a personal vehicle for work.
– A functioning pair of binoculars is required
Compensation:
This is a voluntary training position that includes a stipend to offset living expenses while on the project ($850 per month, gross). Communal housing is provided at our Sierra Nevada Field Station in Chester.
To apply:
Send a single document (PDF preferred, or Word Doc) containing the following items: a letter of interest (describing why you’d like this internship, previous experience with field research, dates of availability, and whether or not you have a vehicle); a resume; and contact information for three references to BRENT CAMPOS (bcampos AT pointblue DOT org) and MAX “HB†BABER (mbaber-SEA AT pointblue DOT org). In the subject line type: Internship Application 2020. Only those qualified applicants who we desire to interview will be contacted starting late January. Qualified applicants will interviewed and hired as they are identified.
Point Blue is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, disability status of an otherwise qualified individual, membership or application for membership in an uniformed service, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law and will make reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities to complete the application and/or participate in the interview process.