Urban Conservation Intern

The National Audubon Society is seeking an Urban Conservation Intern to develop and implement tree planting and conservation programs in New Orleans and surrounding areas. Responsibilities include community engagement, habitat restoration, volunteer coordination, and ecological data collection. This seasonal, on-site internship lasts six months, offering 40 hours per week at $18/hour. Candidates should have a passion for education and conservation in urban settings.
Position Summary: The Urban Conservation Intern will develop and deliver an urban tree planting, conservation, and restoration program, along with avian conservation science and engagement activities primarily in the City of New Orleans (NOLA) and other urban centers in Southern Louisiana, Southern Mississippi, and the Delta region. The role includes engaging community groups, working with volunteers, planting trees, enhancing various habitats, assisting staff with conservation science projects and education programs, and reporting progress on a tree planting grant with the City of NOLA. Most of the activities will occur in NOLA, in primarily underserved neighborhoods and will require engaging with community partners and landowners. Strong candidates will take a thoughtful approach to education, engagement, tree planting & care, and bird conservation. This seasonal position will not exceed 40 hours/week and will operate from June to October. This is an on-site position located at the Audubon New Orleans location Length of Internship: 6 months Location: New Orleans, LA Hours: 40 Compensation: $18.00 / hour Additional Job Description Intern Responsibilities and Learning Objectives: During the internship, you will work with Audubon Delta conservation and engagement staff to: Assist with hands-on habitat restoration work, maintaining and planting native trees and plants at various restoration sites to promote biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship. Assist in collecting ecological data via community science programs, such as iNaturalist and eBird. Support outreach programs as needed by tabling at local community fairs. If able, attend weekly staff meetings and monthly Audubon Delta Meetings. Work with contractors, community organizations, volunteers, and landowners towards removal of invasives, thinning, and planting native trees and plants. Engage with volunteers and community organizations to educate communities on prescribed native tree plantings and planting techniques, as well as monitor planting success to improve shade quality and reduce heat islands across the NOLA and other urban landscapes. Conduct community education and demonstration workshops around tree planting and care to improve public awareness on benefits of native trees in the urban landscape. Work with the team to contribute to project reporting, budget management, procurement, and communication products as necessary. Partner/Collaborate/Assist with Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work. Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas, including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities The learning objectives for this position are: Build capacity in Urban Conservation Native plant use in Urban spaces Tree planting and care Internship Benefits: Interns will gain experience and knowledge in the following: Tree planting and care Engagement around conservation objectives in an urban landscape Science-based planning for native plants and tree use, production, and care. Intern Schedule: Work on dedicated project objectives usually between 8 am – 5 pm workday with appropriate breaks. Work on accomplishing objectives as needed during some weekends and outside 8am -5pm work hours. Projected Start Date/End Date: June 15, 2025 – Dec 15, 2025 Qualifications and Experience: Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation. Completion of college coursework in relevant areas of conservation, forestry, bird biology, natural resources, or related fields or equivalent hands-on experience. Strong interest in conservation, biology, and related areas. Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize and organize tasks independently. Ability to follow detailed instructions accurately and contribute effectively both independently and within a team setting. A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a positive approach to a variety of situations. Capable of performing sustained outdoor work in varied terrain and weather conditions, including the ability to lift and carry at least 30 pounds. Strong communication and critical thinking skills. Valid driver’s license required and reliable transportation. EEO Statement The National Audubon Society is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination, inclusion and equal opportunity and actively seek a diverse pool of candidates in this search. 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. The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow, throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. Audubon’s state programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners have an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. Since 1905, Audubon’s vision has been a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Audubon is a nonprofit conservation organization.