Internship- NEON Sustainability Intern at the Alabama Laboratory

The Student Conservation Association is seeking a NEON Sustainability Intern for an internship from May 5 to October 31, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, AL. Interns will assist with ecological field data collection and lab activities, gaining hands-on experience in various environmental conditions. A valid driver’s license is required, and housing is provided. Compensation includes a weekly living allowance and travel allowance.
Job Description

Position Dates: May 5, 2025 – October 31, 2025

Location: Tuscaloosa, AL

About Us:

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Our program participants actively protect and restore national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and more across the United States.

Program Overview:

The National Ecological Observatory Network is a National Science Foundation 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON uses cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading- edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store, and publish this information. The Observatory includes over 300+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.

Key Responsibilities:

As a member of NEON’s field crew, you will assist with various aspects of ecological field data collection. Responsibilities may include:
• Small mammal trapping
• Insect collection and identification
• Vegetation surveys
• Soil sampling
• Surface water chemistry sampling
• Fish sampling

You will also support lab-based activities, including processing samples, tracking data, and identifying insects and plants. Interns will gain hands-on experience in ecological fieldwork while adhering to established protocols under the guidance of NEON Field Ecologists.

Fieldwork will take place in diverse environmental conditions, so you must be adaptable and committed to safety. You may be required to drive to and from field sites using company vehicles and must possess a valid state-issued driver’s license with an insurable driving record.

Qualifications:
• Valid driver’s license and an insurable Department of Motor Vehicle record.

Compensation & Benefits:
• Weekly living allowance: $561
• Travel allowance: $1,100 (personal vehicle required)
• Housing: Provided and leased by SCA (shared accommodations)

Additional Requirements:

Candidates will need to successfully pass a 10-panel urine drug screening for substances including:
• Amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine metabolites, methadone, opiates (e.g., codeine, morphine, oxycodone), phencyclidine (PCP), and marijuana (THC).