Land Management Intern

Overview

The National Audubon Society is a nonprofit conservation organization that protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. We work throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. Audubon’s state, regional, national, and international programs, nature centers, and chapters have an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. As a sentinel species, we recognize that the fate of birds is inextricably tied to the fate of us all.

Audubon has more than 700 staff working across the United States and seven countries in 17 state and regional offices, 41 nature centers, and 23 wildlife sanctuaries. Together as one Audubon, we aspire to alter the course of climate change and habitat loss, leading to healthier bird populations and reversing current trends in biodiversity loss.

Audubon is committed to a culture of workplace excellence, where our talented and diverse staff are deeply engaged, with a strong sense of belonging. The birds Audubon pledges to protect differ in color, size, behavior, geographical preference, and countless other ways. By honoring and celebrating the equally remarkable diversity of the human species, Audubon will bring new creativity, effectiveness, and leadership to our work throughout the hemisphere.

Position Summary

The Land Management Intern will be responsible for assisting with Audubon’s robust forest management and restoration program with a focus on inventory and restoration work at the Silver Bluff Center and Sanctuary in Aiken, SC. Main duties will be assisting the Sanctuary Manager, and Assistant Manager in ongoing forest stand inventory, prescribed burning, invasive species control, and general facilities maintenance activities. This is a full-time, Intern position that will begin approximately May 1st. The start date will be determined by the selected applicants’ schedule and availability.

Compensation:

$15.00 / hour

Essential Functions

The individual selected for this position will be expected to perform a variety of tasks under the guidance and supervision of the Sanctuary Manager/Assistant Manager, including:

• Tally timber cruise data including species, diameter, height, and product of called trees;
• Assist with prescribed burning of forest stands;
• Assist with forest restoration/tree planting operations;
• Maintain hand tools and power equipment;
• Assist in the daily operation of the Center and Sanctuary, helping with guest relations, education, cleaning, and upkeep of grounds and facilities.
• Assist in engaging the broader public through earned and social media.
• Contribute photographs and short stories about birds for use on the Audubon website and in social media.
• Aid conservation partners with field work as necessary.
• Additional duties as assigned.
• At the end of the Internship, the intern will prepare a presentation documenting the process and what they have learned from it.

Qualifications and Experience

• Currently enrolled student pursuing a BS degree in Ecology, Biology, Forestry, Natural Resources, Education, Social Sciences, or other related fields with a keen interest in natural resource management.
• Passion for volunteer coordination.
• Comfort with engaging the public and talking about the importance of protecting birds in a positive & productive way.
• Preferred - Experience with bird identification, outdoor field work, handheld GPS surveys and GIS mapping;
• Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field and well with others, including staff and volunteers;
• Strong writing and communication skills, willingness to learn and collaborate with coworkers and partners in a respectful manner.
• A valid driver’s license required. Experience with small boats, trailers, and operating ATV/UTV’s strongly preferred;
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays (Memorial Day, 4th of July).
• Must be physically able to lift and carry 50 lbs., swim, and walk up to 4 miles in South Carolina summer field conditions.
• Able to adapt to various field and work conditions while under deadline.

EEO Statement

The National Audubon Society is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination, inclusion and equal opportunity and actively seek a diverse pool of candidates in this search.

Accessibility Statement

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users.  If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

COVID Policy

All new hires must be fully vaccinated prior to their start of employment unless they are pre-qualified by HR for exemption.