This opportunity is curated through the UF TESI Environmental Leaders Network. Opportunities posted through the Network may not be affiliated with the Florida Museum or TESI, but are shared with UF undergraduate students who want to learn more about environmental research, education and outreach, and civic engagement.
Host Organization
Type of Position
- Paid Internship – $14/hour
- In person
Description
The Natural Area Teaching Lab is a 60-acre conservation area located on the southwestern corner of the Gainesville campus (along Natural Area/Surge Area Drive). The mission of NATL is to help teach students and the public about ecology, biodiversity, and conservation. Approximately 50 courses at UF use NATL as an outdoor classroom; in addition, NATL serves as a research space for UF students and faculty and also includes a variety of nature trails with educational displays for the general public.
NATL is seeking a highly motivated undergraduate student to fill a paid part-time internship position beginning in Fall 2024. The successful applicant will assist the NATL operations staff with our ecological restoration and enhancement projects, educational programs, and routine maintenance of NATL. The intern will also assist with related restoration and enhancement projects in McCarty and Harmonic Woods.
Previous experience working in natural areas is desired but not required; on-site training will be provided during the Fall 2024 semester.
Responsibilities
As an Undergraduate Intern, you would be a member of the NATL Operations Committee, which is responsible for maintaining and improving the area in accordance with the NATL mission. Specific duties include:
- Monitoring and removing invasive plant species in NATL and various natural areas around campus (McCarty Woods, Harmonic Woods, etc.)
- Assisting with the organization, implementation, and assessment of prescribed burns in NATL
- Organizing and leading volunteer events and guided tours in NATL and various natural areas around campus (McCarty Woods, Harmonic Woods, etc.)
- Routine trail maintenance, including clearing trails and updating educational signage
- Creating content for NATL’s social media accounts
- Attending weekly Operations Committee meetings
- Other duties aligned with NATL’s mission as assigned
Eligibility
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at the University of Florida
- Available to work 10 hours/week, including occasional work on the weekends
- Available to begin on-site training during the Fall 2024 semester (starting in October 2024)
- Comfortable working outdoors, including in inclement weather
- Able to lift at least 50lbs
- Interest in ecology, conservation, and biodiversity
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior fieldwork experience (especially in natural area management)
- Coursework in ecology, conservation, organismal biology, natural resource management, or related fields
- Familiarity with the fauna and flora of North/Central Florida
- Herbicide certification or training
- Experience assisting with prescribed burns
- Experience operating power tools and equipment, such as chainsaws and tractor mowers
Position Duration
Looking for an intern who can commit to working in NATL for at least one year (i.e., through Fall 2025), including over the summer.
To Apply
Submit an application through the following link: Apply Here.
Deadline to Apply
The NATL Operations Committee will begin reviewing applications on September 22nd, 2024.