Science Communication Student Internship

Klamath Bird Observatory (KBO) is seeking a Jackson County high school student from the graduating class of 2021 or 2022 for a unique paid internship opportunity. Through the Watchable Wildlife Foundation Science Communication Student Internship, the intern will gain firsthand experience in conservation careers, observe and document KBO field activities, and contribute to community science and education that support bird and habitat conservation. Under the supervision of KBO’s Science Communication Specialist, the intern will connect and collaborate with KBO’s science team; our local, state, and federal partners; and the Partners in Flight network. This internship will provide an extraordinary experience as the intern explores various careers in conservation and outdoor work and begins to build a professional network that can help them find education and job opportunities in the future. We encourage applicants to explore this website, and learn more about KBO’s work to advance bird and habitat conservation through science, education, and partnerships here.

Compensation: $13.50/hour, not to exceed 40 hours/week
Duration: Approximately June 28 – August 20, 2021
Primary Location: Ashland, Oregon and telework may be possible

Job Description

The intern’s primary duties will be to complete tasks assigned by the Science Communication Specialist and to assist with or complete deliverables for science communication and community education projects. Tasks and deliverables include but are not limited to:

• Using a DSLR camera to photograph KBO’s field activities at one or more field sites in the beautiful Cascade-Siskiyou Bioregion, archiving photos and videos, and processing photos and videos for use in communications products
• Conducting interviews with KBO’s science team for press releases and other communications
• Collaborating with the Science Communication Specialist to support community education projects such as bird walks, community science projects, virtual events and presentations (Zoom, YouTube livestreams), videos, and other educational events and resources
• Learning to use eBird and teaching others how to use eBird
• Publishing and managing blogs and web pages with WordPress, and sharing content through Mailchimp and social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
• Creating blogs and web pages for klamathbird.org and watchablewildlifefoundation.org to share the internship experience and promote the internship to the public

Health and Safety

We prioritize safety in all our operations at KBO. Job training and safety training will take place remotely whenever possible. When in-person field trips and other activities are possible, they will take place in accordance with Oregon’s Covid-19 guidelines for face coverings, social distancing, hygiene, and other guidelines as they apply to the intern’s work. Arrangements for safe transportation to KBO’s headquarters in Ashland and/or to KBO field sites will be dependent upon the intern’s needs, and telework may be possible. Proper safety gear is essential for safe field operations, therefore funds have been allotted for providing essential gear to the intern, if needed. If the applicant is eligible to receive a Covid-19 vaccine, vaccination may be required if hired.

Compensation

The intern will work full-time, not to exceed 40 hours per week, for approximately 8 weeks, likely from June 28 to August 20, 2021. The intern will be classified as a temporary, non-exempt employee and will be compensated at a rate of $13.50 per hour. In addition, if essential personal field and safety gear are needed and are provided through the internship, the intern will likely be able to keep some of the gear.

Who Should Apply?

Jackson County students who expect to graduate in 2021 or 2022, who are age 16 years and over are eligible to apply. Students attending traditional schools, home-schools, charter schools, and other types of learning programs are all welcome to apply. Ideal candidates will possess 1) enthusiasm for gaining experience in conservation science/outdoor careers and using technology for science communication, 2) an ability to work independently and follow safety protocols, 3) experience with web-based platforms, and 4) experience handling photography equipment. Students with Spanish language skills are preferred.

To Apply

Required application materials include:

1. A fillable PDF application (download the application here).
2. An unofficial high school transcript. Please contact your school or institution for more information.
3. A one-page Statement of Interest. Your Statement of Interest should be professional, clearly written, and well-organized. It should provide strong evidence that you are a good fit for the position, including specific examples that illustrate your interest in careers in the outdoors and your enthusiasm and passion for learning about science and birds.

Resumes are optional. Applicants who advance to the second round of the hiring process may be asked to provide positive references or letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, and/or employers.

Please save required application materials as PDF documents and email to Debra Agnew, Science Communication Specialist, dla@klamathbird.org.

If you have questions or need further assistance with the application process, please email Debra Agnew at dla@klamathbird.org. Please use subject line: WWF Internship.

Download a PDF of this job announcement here.