Conservation Education Intern

Background:

The intern will assist with conservation education efforts at Mashomack Preserve, a 2,039-acre coastal preserve owned by The Nature Conservancy.

Primary duties include, but are not limited to, working closely with the Education and Outreach Coordinator and Visitor Center Coordinator to help create and implement summer interpretive programs, develop interpretive materials and displays, as well as help staff the Visitor Center.

Programs reflect the conservation initiatives of TNC at the international, state and local levels including marine, freshwater, invasive species, migratory birds, fire and climate change. Extensive contact with the public will include providing information to preserve visitors and assisting with or leading interpretive programs for all ages, including children. The intern will assist members of the Long Island Preserve team with stewardship and maintenance projects on an as-needed basis.

The Education Intern is supervised by the Education and Outreach Coordinator and supervises no staff. Onpreserve housing can be provided with this position.

Duties:

1. Help with the development and implementation of interpretive conservation programs, displays and materials that emphasize the biological diversity of the Mashomack Preserve and reflect The Nature Conservancys conservation initiatives.
2. Assist with the summer Childrens Environmental Education Program.
3. Provide information to visiting public, make sales in gift shop and provide general Visitor Center support, including office/administrative work.
4. Assist with trail and grounds maintenance, administrative support, fundraising events and other tasks as necessary.
5. Assist with Mashomack site conservation plan strategies on an as-needed basis. This may include projects such as control of invasive species, monitoring of bird populations, monitoring oak forest health, data entry and staff support.

Qualifications:

1. A good knowledge of ecological and natural history concepts, willingness to learn local flora and fauna, and the love of sharing that knowledge with others. Experience or degree in environmental education or related field preferred.
2. Strong written and oral communication skills. Excellent organizational skills. Ability to manage several projects simultaneously.
3. Ability to work both independently and cooperatively with a variety of volunteers and staff.
4. Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings as necessary. Ability and willingness to do occasional hard physical labor.
5. Computer literacy and working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Word highly preferable.
6. Valid drivers license. Vehicle (highly preferred) or bicycle for personal use is necessary.
7. Skill in kayaking and/or canoeing and current First Aid or CPR certification helpful.

Location: Mashomack Preserve, Shelter Island, NY

Duration: May 15 September 2, 2003, dates are somewhat flexible, but mid-May is the latest acceptable start date

Salary: $8 9/hr, ~35-hour workweek including some weekends and holidays, on-preserve housing provided.

Application Instructions:

To apply send resume and cover letter or contact us by fax, email or post:
Cynthia R. Belt
Education and Outreach Coordinator
Mashomack Preserve
The Nature Conservancy
PO Box 850
Shelter Island, NY 11964

THE NATURE CONSERVANCY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER