Vermont Institute of Natural Science
Position Description
TITLE:
Invasive Species Management & Education Intern for OCISMA
SUMMARY:
The Invasive Species Intern is responsible for
assisting with on-the-ground work of the Ottauquechee Cooperative
Invasive Species Management Area (OCISMA), a collaborative of
several private, public and not-for-profit organizations committed to
the management of invasive species in an area loosely bound by
the Ottauquechee River watershed in central Vermont. The team of
Interns will implement invasive plant management and education
activities. Work will include: detecting, documenting and
responding to invasive species; removing existing populations of
invasive species and subsequently rehabilitating affected areas;
informing priority audiences about the threat of invasive species; and assessing the
impact of management efforts. The Interns will also help recruit and train volunteers to
support all aspects of the OCISMA’s activities.
REPORTS TO:
UPDATED:
Mandy Vellia, OCISMA Coordinator
10 February 2012
The activities of the Invasive Species Interns for OCISMA are determined in part by a
Steering Committee, which consists of representatives of the several member
organizations including the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS), other NGOs,
and state and federal agencies. Each intern will have the opportunity to assist Steering
Committee Members with a wide variety of projects to become familiar with all aspects
of invasive species issues. Interns will operate out of the VINS Nature Center in
Quechee, VT.
FIELD WORK (80%):
● Implement approved best management practices for terrestrial and aquatic
invasive plant removal.
● Map locations of infestations within the watershed using GPS and GIS
technologies.
● Organize community work days to focus on high priority areas.
EDUCATION and OUTREACH (20%):
● Communicate with community members about invasive species issues, what
OCISMA is doing in the area, and how they can become involved.
● Encourage land owners and managers to become engaged with management
efforts.
● Assist in planning and supervising volunteer trainings, workshops, and work days.
Assist in the development of promotional, informational, and other materials in
multimedia and printed form.
● Assist OCISMA partners on existing outreach activities.
● Other related duties as assigned.
●
QUALIFICATIONS:
● College coursework or Bachelor’s Degree in education, environmental studies, or
related field; or related field experience.
● Exceptional work ethic and willingness to learn new ideas and practices.
● Ability to work as part of a team.
● Ability to inspire and support teams of people working with invasive species.
● Flexibility and willingness to adapt to and facilitate change.
● General knowledge of invasive species (or willingness and initiative to learn).
● Willingness to work in aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
● Ability to traverse uneven New England terrain and work outdoors in all weather.
● Ability to carry bulky, heavy equipment (up to 40 lbs).
● Personal vehicle and a valid driver’s license are required.
● GPS or other mapping experience preferred (but not required).
● Passionate about conservation education and the mission of OCISMA.
COMPENSATION:
● Living stipend of $375 bi-weekly. This is a 12-week, full time internship with a typical
work week of 40-hours/week, Tuesday through Saturday. Start date – June 5, 2012
● Housing will be provided.
● Trainings and education opportunities may include: First Aid; outdoor and heat safety
training; iMapInvasives and Vermont Invasive Patrollers workshops; gaining
experiences such as crew leadership, community outreach, and public speaking.
For more information about the group, please visit the Vermont Invasives website.
VINS (The Vermont Institute of Natural Science) is a 501(c)3, equal opportunity
nonprofit organization wholly supported by membership dues, admission and program
fees, donations, and grants.
To Apply:
Send resume, cover letter and contact information for three references to:
ocisma@vinsweb.org
or
Vermont Institute of Natural Science
Attn: Mandy Vellia
PO Box 1281
Quechee, VT 05059
802.359.5001 ext.240
Invasive Species Management & Education Intern for OCISMA
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