The Conservation Ecology Intern(s) will primarily work to further the conservation efforts of the North Carolina Botanical Garden in the areas of rare plant research, seed conservation, and natural area management. The internship provides hands-on experience for those interested in applied conservation, research, or botany as a career and is ideal for rising college juniors, seniors and recent graduates, but is open to all interested individuals. Candidates should be studying biology, ecology, environmental science, or related fields, be comfortable working outdoors in adverse conditions, and be detail oriented. A large portion of the work is field based and will give the intern(s) opportunities to work with many of the natural communities, habitats and rare plants throughout NC. The selected intern(s) will also have the opportunity to interact within the many facets of a conservation-oriented public entity. The primary experiences and job duties are:

* Assisting with data collection and fieldwork related to NCBG rare plant research including pollination ecology, demography, population monitoring, species reintroduction, and population genetics;
* Conducting conservation based seed collections of rare and common plant species;
* Data and collections management;
* Propagation and care of rare plants for use in restoration and reintroduction projects;
* Working on collaborative projects with conservation professionals around the state;
* Assisting with natural area stewardship activities including invasive species removal, trail maintenance, and working with volunteers;
* Supporting general NCBG activities and events.

Due to timing of research activities, the internship begins approximately the first week of May.

Minimum Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalency and demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:
Passion for the environment and the mission of NCBG, the ability to work with people of different backgrounds, and experience working outdoors in stressful conditions. Previous experience volunteering or working with conservation organizations are a plus.

The ability and desire to perform physical labor out of doors in summer conditions is necessary. Some work for special events may occur on the weekends. Must be able to safely lift or move items weighing up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodations. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.