Location: Harleyville, SC
Full time
Requisition ID: JR1001

About Audubon

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.

Position Summary:

Reporting to Audubon South Carolina’s (ASC) Community Science and Research Program Manager, the Audubon South Carolina Bird Conservation Intern will experience many facets of field work associated with bird conservation, such as habitat management and restoration, coastal shorebird monitoring and protection, and assisting with several bird research and conservation projects. In addition, the intern will help run the MAPS (Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship) bird banding station located at the Audubon Center at Francis Beidler Forest, and will assist with other research, data entry and processing, banding demonstrations, and educational and visitor programs, as needed.

This is a full-time internship working 40 hours per week.

This position is classified as on-site based at Francis Beidler Forest in Harleyville, SC, as well as one the coast of SC, and remote field sites across the state. The Bird Conservation Internship is expected to begin in May 11th to August 7th.

Compensation:

$19.00 / hour

Intern Responsibilities and Learning Objectives:

This internship offers a unique opportunity to dive into meaningful research that helps protect birds and their habitats. As an intern, you’ll develop valuable skills and gain real-world experience that will set you on a path to success in the environmental and scientific sectors. You'll work closely with experienced professionals, including the Community Science and Research Program Manager, Beidler Forest Center Director, Land Conservation staff, and the entire Audubon South Carolina team, ensuring a dynamic and enriching learning experience.

The Bird Conservation Intern will:

Support the day-to-day field work for Project PROTHO, which includes the banding and monitoring of Prothonotary Warblers at different field sites in South Carolina.

Work with the Master Bander to conduct the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) banding station at the Beidler Forest Audubon Center.

Assist in banding Painted Buntings and other species at the bird feeder stations at the Beidler Forest Audubon Center, Dewees Island, and other field locations.

Assist Coastal Staff with Coastal Shorebird monitoring, surveys, and stewardship.

Participate in bird-friendly forestry programs and habitat management work with Audubon’s land management team.

Assist in many aspects of Audubon South Carolina’s work with MOTUS towers including installation and annual maintenance checks.

Engage in public programs, both live and virtual, as needed.

Support visitor engagement and operations at Beidler Forest as directed during center visitation hours.

Provide data entry as directed by supervisor.

Contribute to Audubon communications, including writing blog posts for the Beidler Forest e-newsletter as well as posts for social media channels and special engagement projects.

Complete a special independent project, including presentation to staff at the conclusion of the internship, to promote Audubon South Carolina’s mission and goals.

Additional duties as assigned.

Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

Qualifications and Experience:

Working toward or completed a science-focused degree or lived experience.

Experience with or willingness to be trained in field techniques for studying birds, including handling, banding and surveying birds; interest in avian ecology is a plus but not required.

Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well in the field and with others, including staff and volunteers.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Strong organizational and communication skills, willingness to learn and collaborate with coworkers and partners in a respectful manner.

Valid driver’s license required in order to commute for field work. Using an Audubon vehicle for offsite travel and transport equipment.

Must be willing to work outdoors in varying South Carolina field conditions.

Able to adapt to various field and work conditions to complete tasks while under deadline.

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

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

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

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at