Whale Scout, a nonprofit organization based in King County, Washington is looking for student interns for spring and summer sessions to assist with salmon habitat restoration and outreach and education activities with diverse audiences. Dedicated to protecting Pacific Northwest whales through land-based conservation experiences, Whale Scout takes a boots-on-the-ground approach to recovering endangered Southern Resident killer whales and the salmon they rely upon. We acknowledge that we are on the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish people, and recognize that certain local communities of color are disproportionately impacted by lack of salmon, poor water quality, and access to outdoor environmental experiences and education. Our programs, including this internship, work to address these issues. We are seeking applicants whose backgrounds, experiences, language skills, and interests align with environmental justice goals related to Puget Sound. This internship will offer students the opportunity to learn about killer whales, salmon habitat, native vegetation, communication, community building, non-profit organizational management, and become certified water quality monitors. It will offer those 17 and older field experience educating the public including diverse families. The internship may also include opportunities to participate in field trips to San Juan Island. No prior experience is required. Students are invited to apply for spring and/or summer sessions. Compensation is $18/hr. Applications are due April 11th for consideration for the spring session and April 30th for consideration for the summer session.

Description of Responsibilities

Spring session: Approximately 6 hrs per week. Fieldwork at alternating locations (Bear Creek in Redmond and the former Wayne Golf Course in Bothell) on Fridays and independent study. Includes some weekend days for community volunteer and special events.

Dates: Mid April – June

Summer session: Approximately 15 hours per week.

Dates: July 6th – August 31st

Watering, weeding, maintenance, and monitoring of newly planted native vegetation at restoration sites within north King County

Riparian and water quality monitoring at our Bear Creek site

Outreach performing educational activities working with kids and families throughout King County

Leading volunteer work parties

Data entry for the PodMatch website and some administrative tasks

Independent reading, learning and research

Possible field trip(s) to San Juan Island

Benefits

$18/hr compensation

Field experience

Continuing educational opportunities 

Networking opportunities 

Experience working with diverse communities

Experience learning about salmon habitat restoration and water quality testing techniques 

Upon successful completion of internship, letter(s) of recommendation for future positions

Commitment 

Commitment 6 hours per week for spring and 15 hours per week for summer (approx). 

Schedule can vary and include some weekends and evenings. We encourage students to take advantage of time off and vacations and just ask for written notice to ensure coverage in scheduling.

Skills and Qualifications 

Open mind and willingness to explore other points of view 

Computer skills – use of Google products such as Google calendar, Google docs, Google sheets/excel and Zoom. Access to a computer/internet/email is particularly helpful

Be able to lift 40 lbs

Interest in teaching a diverse group of students both in and out of the classroom

Proven personal initiative and ability to multitask, prioritize, use good judgement, problem solve, and work effectively both independently and as a team in a fast-paced environment

Ability to hike several miles outdoors in all weather conditions

Demonstrated written and oral communication skills and detail-oriented organizational skills

Must be at least 17 years old on first day of internship

Must provide transportation to sites across King County

Must successfully pass a criminal history background check

Must be legally able to work in the United States

Willingness to store and/or transport materials to and from home

Willingness to learn more about the threats and science regarding Southern Resident killer whales

Housing not provided

We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQIA2S+, people living with disabilities, and veterans. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. 

We consider the “whole applicant,” working to develop a cohort of interns with unique perspectives each year. Typically we receive far more applicants than available positions.  

To apply, please complete this application.

Program Support

This program is funded with support from: WRIA 8, King County Flood Control District, King County Wastewater Treatment Division, NOAA Fisheries, Keta Legacy Foundation, and King County Parks

https://www.whalescout.org/article?slug=diverse-voices-student-internship-opportunity

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