Oregon Wild Internships

Founded in 1974, Oregon Wild is a non-profit conservation organization that works to protect and restore the wildlands, wildlife, and waters that make our state such a special place. Our major campaign areas include Wilderness and forest protection, protection and restoration of native fish and wildlife, and the protection and restoration of Oregon’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

This internship provides an opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a conservation advocacy organization while also supporting the critical mission of Oregon Wild.

Crater Lake Wilderness Intern

General Responsibilities:

• Refining Wilderness proposals – 60%
  This internship will support the work of Oregon Wild’s Wilderness Campaign Coordinator in developing and refining proposals to expand federally protected Wilderness in Oregon.  The primary campaign will be the Crater Lake Wilderness though the scope of work will overlap other campaigns. This may include field work, such as scouting and photographing proposed Wilderness areas, documenting conditions on the ground, trails, roads, etc… The intern will also be responsible for writing area descriptions, web site and blog content, hike descriptions, and fact sheets in support of Oregon Wild’s Wilderness campaigns.
• Program and general administrative support – 40%
  Support the day to day operations of Oregon Wild and its Wilderness campaigns.  This includes representing the organization at tabling events and other public gatherings, gathering support/endorsements from local businesses and elected officials, and providing general office support such as answering phones, assisting with mailings, and distribution of educational materials.

Minimum qualifications:
A demonstrated passion for Wilderness and the conservation of America’s public lands is mandatory.  The ideal candidate must be able take direction well, be able to take initiative, and be able to work independently when needed.  Experience conducting field surveys or similar work in backcountry conditions is definitely helpful.  Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license, their own transportation, and camping gear. While much of the field work can be done by vehicle, candidates should be in reasonably fit shape and able to hike up to 5-10 miles per day.

Good photography skills and experience writing for social media, web sites, blogs and similar electronic publications is a plus.  Experience with GIS is not required but would be beneficial.  Students studying in the areas of environmental science, GIS, and government, as well as those looking to pursue a career in conservation and/or advocacy, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation:
This internship is unpaid, however, it may be tailored to meet requirements for academic credit. 

Work Schedule:
20-40 hours per week, flexible schedule. Ideally candidate would be able to do 3-4 separate week long field trips but this is flexible depending on schedule. Position would be based out of our Portland office.

To Apply:
E-mail your contact information along with a short cover letter (max. 1 page), resume, availability (dates & hours/week), and two references. You are also welcome to submit a writing sample. Please send to:

ef@oregonwild.org
Erik Fernandez
Wilderness Coordinator
Oregon Wild