Land Management Intern
National Audubon Society (USA)
About Audubon
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.
Position Summary
The Land Management Intern will assist with Audubon's robust forest management and restoration program, focusing on inventory and restoration work at the Silver Bluff Sanctuary in Jackson, SC. Primary duties will be assisting the Senior Sanctuary Manager, and Assistant Manager in ongoing forest stand inventory, prescribed burning, invasive species control, and general facilities maintenance activities.
This position is classified as onsite at Audubon Silver Bluff Sanctuary in Jackson, SC.
Rustic housing on site is available if needed.
Compensation:
$19.00 / hour
Additional Job Description
Intern Responsibilities and Learning Objectives
During the internship, you will work with the Land Management staff to:
Tally timber cruise data including species, diameter, height, and product of called trees.
Assist with prescribed burning of forest stands.
Assist with forest restoration/tree planting operations.
Maintain hand tools and power equipment.
Assist in the daily operation of the Sanctuary, helping with guest relations, education, cleaning, and upkeep of grounds and facilities.
Assist in engaging the broader public through earned and social media.
Contribute photographs and short stories about birds for use on the Audubon website and social media.
Aid conservation partners with fieldwork, as necessary.
Additional duties as assigned.
At the end of the Internship, the Intern will prepare a presentation documenting the process and what they have learned from it.
Internship Benefits
Interns will gain experience and knowledge in the following:
They will walk away with an enhanced understanding of South Carolina’s 23 billion dollar Forest Product Industry.
Understand the National Audubon Societies’ mission, role in forest management, and how forest management helps protect birds and the places they need to survive.
They will carry the knowledge they obtain into their professional careers.
Intern Schedule
This is a seasonal, full-time role requiring a 90-day commitment within the six-month operating window of May 1 through November 1. The specific start and end dates are flexible (e.g., May–July, June–August, July–September) and can be determined based on candidate availability and operational needs.
Projected Start Date
Start dates are flexible: May–July, June–August, July–September.
Qualifications and Experience
Currently enrolled, or recent graduate, student pursuing a BS/MS degree in Ecology, Biology, Forestry, Natural Resources, Education, Social Sciences, or other related fields with a keen interest in natural resource management.
Passion for volunteer coordination.
Comfort with engaging the public and talking about the importance of protecting birds in a positive & productive way.
Experience with bird identification, outdoor field work, handheld GPS surveys, and GIS mapping is preferred.
Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field and with others, including staff and volunteers.
Strong writing and communication skills, willing to learn, and respectfully collaborate with coworkers and partners.
A valid driver's license is required as working with small boats, trailers, and operating ATVs/UTVs are are essential to the role.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.
Accessibility Statement
The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.