Calling all students and individuals interested in ecology, restoration, forestry, and environmental studies!

Nature Consortium is seeking three interns for our Urban Forest Restoration Program this winter. Interns will commit 10-20 hours per week coordinating and leading volunteers in forest restoration projects in green spaces around West Seattle. This is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning about ecology, restoration, or working with an environmentally-focused nonprofit. See internship description below and send any questions to Merica Whitehall at merica@naturec.org. Completed applications should be sent to info@naturec.org.

POSITION: Urban Forest Restoration Program Intern

Nature Consortium, a registered 501c(3) Seattle-based not for profit organization, is seeking three interns to work within our Urban Forest Restoration Program. Interns will commit 10-20 hours per week coordinating and leading volunteers in forest restoration projects in green spaces around West Seattle. This is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning about ecology, restoration, or working with an environmentally-focused nonprofit.

Nature Consortium’s mission is to connect people, arts and nature. Our programs include an Urban Forest Restoration Program, an EcoArts Program and a bi-annual Arts in Nature Festival. The Urban Forest Restoration Program interns support the work of the Nature Consortium Forest Restoration Team to advance the restoration of the West Duwamish Greenbelt by conducting and leading volunteer-based forest restoration efforts. This position reports to the Restoration Program Manager.

Schedule:

The internship will run from January to late-May/early-June 2016 (start and end date are negotiable). We will be hiring three interns. The ideal candidate will be available on either Tuesday or Saturday from 9:00-4:00PM to assist with or lead weekly forest restoration volunteer events, and an additional week day to manage office-related tasks. The additional work day scheduling to support program operations is flexible and can be determined once a candidate is selected. Nature Consortium will hire interns to regularly lead Tuesday and Saturday work parties.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise, motivate, educate, train and inspire volunteers to efficiently complete forest stewardship activities (invasive removal, native planting, and mulching) during habitat restoration work parties.
• Manage volunteer and program data (Salesforce and Microsoft excel data entry).
• Assist with the maintenance of restoration equipment and supplies (tools, vehicles, gloves, etc.)
• Promote individual volunteer development and retention, and ensure a healthy working and learning environment.
• Complete special project as assigned if desired (possibilities include: taking on leadership role during large special events or conducting research and program outreach).

Benefits of the Internship:

• Develop and practice communication, leadership, group management and volunteer management skills.
• Develop and practice hands-on forest restoration and stewardship skills.
• Learn about Pacific Northwest ecology.
• Gain experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) software, Salesforce, and CEDAR data management systems.
• Gain exposure to and understanding of nonprofit operations.

Qualifications:

• Ability to work with a wide range of volunteers, community groups, partners and staff.
• Basic knowledge of Pacific Northwest ecology and/or willingness to learn.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills-must feel comfortable speaking in front of groups.
• Physically able to work long days in adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to lift 10-25 lbs. (tools, plants, trees, etc) and walk in uneven terrain.
• Access to reliable private transportation.
• Good driving record, current driver’s license and vehicle insurance.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification or ability to obtain prior to start of internship.
• Positive attitude, energetic personality and sense of humor.

Status: This will be an unpaid internship. No employee benefits or paid holidays/vacation provided.

Applications and inquiries: Cover letter and resumes should be emailed to info@naturec.org by January 4th. Please note that the selected candidate must submit to a background check.