Organization: Boone County Conservation District
About the position:
In Kentucky, there are 121 Conservation Districts working towards the same goal: conserving our natural resources. The Boone County Conservation District (BCCDKY) is the primary entity to provide technical, educational, and financial assistance to private landowners and land users in the conservation, sustainment, improvement, and enhancement of Boone County’s natural resources. BCCDKY works closely with not only landowners, but also with local schools, homeschool groups, scouts, and local, state, and federal organizations.
Intern Job Summary:
In this position, the intern will work alongside District staff to conduct ongoing forest health and wildlife research in Boone County’s natural areas. Current research projects include monitoring of plant communities, acoustic bat surveys, and habitat monitoring for mussels and other aquatic species. Intern will be responsible for maintaining research database, conducting field work, and communicating results with the public. During the summer, the intern will also develop an independent study under supervision of District staff.
In addition, intern will assist with other District operations, including education and outreach programs, technical assistance for habitat management projects, and other administrative duties as assigned. The intern will also have the opportunity to network with local, state, and federal individuals and agencies in the ecological and conservation field, including local non profits, Boone County Parks Department, Sanitation District No. 1, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, and more.
Intern Requirements:
- Sophomore or higher status in a college or university
- Ability to work in the outdoors during inclement weather and over challenging terrain
- Coursework in biology and/or field work related to biological monitoring
- General knowledge of ecosystem functions and biological monitoring methods
- Ability to interact professionally with members of the general public, including K-12 students
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
- Valid Driver’s License
- CPR certification or ability to obtain certification upon hiring
- Ability to work occasional weekends and evenings
- Ability to work independently and with minimum supervision
Duration: Mid-May through early August (approximately 13 weeks)
Hours: Part-time, approximately 400 hours total
Compensation: $3,600 stipend
Report to: Susan Brown, Conservation Education Specialist
DUTIES
Forest Health Monitoring Programs (50%)
- Conduct regular field work for ongoing programs
- Conduct background research and literature reviews
- Manage data analysis and organization
- Maintain equipment and supplies
- Communicate research results with the public through written reports, digital media, and public presentations
Educational Programs (20%)
- Assist with the planning and facilitation of family programs, summer programs, workshops, and community events, including weekend programs
- Prepare documents and materials for display boards, quarterly newsletters, blogs, and social media posts
Independent Study (15%)
- Develop an independent project related to forest health conservation to be completed during the internship
Technical Support (10%)
- Assist with technical conservation practices, including invasive species removal, vegetation plantings, and site visits
Administration (5%)
- Work with staff to organize and inventory district files and supplies
- Attend appropriate staff and board meetings
- Attend appropriate trainings pertaining to job duties, including First Aid and CPR
- Other duties as assigned
To Apply, send cover letter, resume, and three references to susanbrown@bccdky.org by April 13, 2023
Find more information here.
