Urban Conservation Intern

Position Summary:

The Urban Conservation Intern will assist in the development and delivery of urban tree planting, conservation, and restoration program, along with avian conservation science and engagement activities primarily in the City of New Orleans (NOLA) and other urban centers in Southern Louisiana, Southern Mississippi, and the Delta region.

The role includes engaging community groups, working with volunteers, planting trees, enhancing various habitats, assisting staff with conservation science projects and education programs, and reporting progress on a tree planting grant with the City of NOLA. Most of the activities will occur in NOLA, in primarily underserved neighborhoods and will require engaging with community partners and landowners. Strong candidates will take a thoughtful approach to education, engagement, tree planting & care, and bird conservation.

This seasonal position will not exceed 40 hours/week and will operate from June to October.

This is an on-site position located at the Audubon New Orleans location

Length of Internship: 6 months

Location: New Orleans, LA

Hours: 40

Compensation:

$19.00 / hour

Intern Responsibilities and Learning Objectives:

During the internship, you will work with Audubon Delta conservation and engagement staff to:

• Assist with hands-on habitat restoration work, maintaining and planting native trees and plants at various restoration sites to promote biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship.

• Assist in collecting ecological data via community science programs, such as iNaturalist and eBird.

• Support outreach programs as needed by tabling at local community fairs.

• If able, attend weekly staff meetings and monthly Audubon Delta Meetings.

• Work with contractors, community organizations, volunteers, and landowners towards removal of invasives, thinning, and planting native trees and plants.

• Engage with volunteers and community organizations to educate communities on prescribed native tree plantings and planting techniques, as well as monitor planting success to improve shade quality and reduce heat islands across the NOLA and other urban landscapes.

• Conduct community education and demonstration workshops around tree planting and care to improve public awareness on benefits of native trees in the urban landscape.

• Work with the team to contribute to project reporting, budget management, procurement, and communication products as necessary.

• Partner/Collaborate/Assist with Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.

• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas, including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities

The learning objectives for this position are:

• Build capacity in Urban Conservation

• Native plant use in Urban spaces

• Tree planting and care

Internship Benefits:

Interns will gain experience and knowledge in the following:

• Tree planting and care

• Engagement around conservation objectives in an urban landscape

• Science-based planning for native plants and tree use, production, and care.

Intern Schedule:
Work on dedicated project objectives usually between 8 am – 5 pm workday with appropriate breaks. Work on accomplishing objectives as needed during some weekends and outside 8am -5pm work hours.

Projected Start Date/End Date:

June 15, 2025 – Dec 15, 2025

Qualifications and Experience:

• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

• Completion of college coursework in relevant areas of conservation, forestry, bird biology, natural resources, or related fields or equivalent hands-on experience.

• Strong interest in conservation, biology, and related areas.

• Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize and organize tasks independently.

• Ability to follow detailed instructions accurately and contribute effectively both independently and within a team setting.

• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a positive approach to a variety of situations.

• Capable of performing sustained outdoor work in varied terrain and weather conditions, including the ability to lift and carry at least 30 pounds.

• Strong communication and critical thinking skills. 

• Valid driver’s license required and reliable transportation.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

Accessibility Statement

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