Conservation Intern

Mitchell Lake Audubon Center is a 1,200-acre wildlife refuge, located in south San Antonio, TX. The property is owned by the local water utility, San Antonio Water System (SAWS), and managed by the National Audubon Society. The historic Leeper House serves as its visitor center, with a small education pavilion on property. The site includes 7.5 miles of both walking and/or driving trails.

The Conservation Intern position is a for-credit position that supports the Center’s conservation efforts through native plant restoration, invasive species removal, and habitat maintenance. It involves assisting with community and classroom education programs as needed, with additional responsibilities in evaluation, teaching, and event support. The role also includes assisting with community and classroom education programs as needed.

Intern Responsibilities and Learning Objectives

Under the guidance of the Land and Conservation Coordinator at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, the conservation intern will complete the objectives of the internship including but not limited to conservation project organization and implementation. They will have the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge through the following responsibilities:

• Assist with maintenance of bird-friendly and pollinator gardens.
• Assist with the restoration of grassland areas.
• Intern will learn to properly identify native plants and invasive plants, while learning how to properly eradicate or protect the species.
• Aid in care of Animal Ambassadors.
• Assist in development and execution of special programming for community events on and off property.

Internship Benefits

• As a result of this experience, interns will sharpen their conservation skills and gain knowledge of local natural history and conservation through focuses on restoring, revitalizing, and enhancing habitat.

Intern Schedule

• This is a short-term internship. Conservation Interns must be able to commit to 13 weeks, Tuesday through Saturday.

Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrates a passion for the natural world and genuine appreciation for the mission of Mitchell Lake Audubon Center of connecting people and communities to nature and the outdoors.
• Work well with students, children of all ages, teachers, parents, and volunteers.
  Excellent interpersonal skills required.
• Knowledge of curriculum development including evaluation processes is preferred.
• Knowledge of general computer use, Microsoft Office, and social media platforms.
• Willingness to work cooperatively as part of a small team.
• Demonstrates environmental stewardship actions.
• Reliable transportation required, along with valid U.S. driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Undergo criminal background check (provided by agency).
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Proficient writing and speaking skills (Spanish proficiency a plus).
• Be able to carry at least thirty pounds and enjoy outdoor work in extreme conditions.

Mitchell Lake Audubon Center participates in the Federal Work Study Partnership Program through Texas A&M University - San Antonio and the Alamo Community Colleges to provide paid internships via the university in the areas of Conservation, Education, and Marketing. Please contact the Experiential Learning Center at your school or university to see if you qualify.

We provide internships for university credit on a case-by-case basis. The student is responsible for coordinating with their university. Contact the center at MLAC@audubon.org with the email subject "Internship for Credit" if interested.