The Otsego County Conservation Association (OCCA) is pleased to announce an internship opportunity in invasive species management/environmental education. This internship may be available for college credit based on your college’s requirements and approval.
Position:
Invasive Species/Education Internship
Location:
Otsego County Conservation Association, 7207 State Highway 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326 (Mohican Farm, corner of Allen Lake Road)
Term:
Summer
Time Requirements:
20-30 hours per week, mid-May through mid-August.
Flexible schedule; some weekend and evening work required.
Suggested Major(s):
Biology, Environmental Science, Education, Environmental Education or other applicable fields.
Number of Openings:
1 per summer
Description:
Working under the supervision of the Program Director, the Invasive Species/ Education Intern will assist in a broad range of tasks supporting OCCA in its mission of protecting, preserving and enhancing the natural environment, with a specific emphasis on invasive species detection, control and education projects.
Tasks include:
- Carry out surveys of lakes, streams, ponds and wetlands to detect and document high priority Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)
- Lead or assist in rapid response removals of newly-detected AIS populations
- Participate in ongoing removals/control work of AIS in Goodyear Lake, Silver Lake and other locations in Otsego County
- Document survey results using iMapInvasives
- Organize and train volunteers assisting with aquatic invasive species removal projects.
- Participate in control of terrestrial invasive species, including Japanese knotweed
- Participate in ongoing emerald ash borer survey at Mohican Farm
- Participate in ongoing spotted lanternfly surveys and trap monitoring
- Assist in development and implementation of public education programs related to invasive species and effectively engage the public while carrying out other tasks
- Keep detailed and accurate records of activities
- Support OCCA in other areas as needed.
Requirements:
Applicant should have a basic understanding of ecological principles and invasive species; strong communication skills; valid New York State driver’s license and access to a vehicle; experience handling canoes and/or kayaks; ability to work unsupervised and outdoors for long hours; able to lift 60 pounds.
Stipend: Yes.
Offline Application Procedure: Send resume and cover letter to Jeff O’Handley, Program Director, programdirector@occainfo.org or mail to Jeff O’Handley, OCCA, PO Box 931, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
Online Application Procedure: Complete the form below, upload files for cover letter and resume and submit.