2020 Fish & Wildlife Research Internship
At 35 years and counting, we continue to foster understanding, respect, and care for the environment by connecting people with nature through education and research here at the Nisqually Reach Nature Center. Additionally, building community is something we are passionate about; the Nisqually Reach Aquatic Reserve is a testament to our unity and determination. We accomplish this with a host of volunteers and interns to assist three staff.
Description:
The Nisqually Reach Nature Center is looking for an unpaid Research Intern to join our team. Spring, fall, & winter internships are available for credit while summer internships are available as well (credits optional). We are now in our 8th year of citizen science projects. This is a meaningful opportunity for an aspiring environmental professional to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the environmental field and be involved in projects that informs natural resource management.
Forage fish spawning surveys and pigeon guillemot breeding surveys are the two projects this position will support. The forage fish project involves conducting field surveys, analyzing samples using a microscope, and coordinating volunteers. Pigeon Guillemot surveys consist of summer breeding and fall/winter non-breeding surveys. The intern will assist with surveying, data entry, and report writing. Another significant component of the two projects is volunteer coordination. Data management is the third major part of this position. Opportunities for assisting with data analysis and report writing also available. Other duties include staffing of the visitor center during open hours as well as aquarium maintenance and occasionally assisting with education programs.
Responsibilities:
● Assist with forage fish spawning surveys; field work, sample processing, lab analysis, QA/QC.
● Assist with preparation for, planning of, and conducting volunteer trainings.
● Coordinate volunteers.
● Enter, manage, and analyze community science data.
● Staff Nisqually Reach Visitor Center – greet and engage with visitors.
● Tabling at community and outreach events – outreach and recruitment.
● Give project updates at Nisqually Reach Aquatic Reserve Citizen Stewardship Committee Meetings.
● Assist with other projects as needed.
● Assist the education director as needed.
Qualifications:
● Completion of basic studies in biological or environmental sciences.
● Intermediate experience using Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
● Field and lab experience.
● Experience teaching youth is desired, not required.
● Detail-oriented and organized.
● Able to prioritize multiple tasks and be adaptable.
● Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
● Dependable, disciplined and prompt.
Schedule:
● 20-40 hours per week/Core days and hours: Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday 12:00-4:00PM
● Flexibility is required; some evening work possible
How to Apply:
Email a resume and letter of interest detailing your background and how you meet the qualifications.
Please also complete the following questionnaire: https://forms.gle/mJadwvLpdWfwed9cA
For questions about this position, contact Terence Lee.
Terence Lee
Science Director
Nisqually Reach Nature Center
360-459-0387
terencelee@nisquallyestuary.org