Conservation Policy Graduate Student Intern

About the role

Point Blue Conservation Science seeks a Conservation Policy Graduate Student Intern to support a state conservation policy engagement project and to gain training in policy-oriented social science coding skills.

The graduate student intern will work with Point Blue staff to research, design and support the development of a policy-oriented white paper that reviews key issues from the California conservation and stewardship communities. The report will cover various biodiversity stewardship sectors including stewardship in agricultural, fire, freshwater, urban, and marine contexts.

Responsibilities

• Create an outline for a report that will communicate stewardship priorities to the incoming California state administration and public agencies
• Conduct an emergent thematic coding process on existing qualitative data
• Review best practices for the ethical handling and interpretation of human subjects data
• Review meeting notes, presentation slides, and recordings to capture key messaging
• Follow up with external partners in the stewardship community as needed to clarify points and messaging
• Draft and/or lead report sections as desired; with the ability to focus on areas of interest
• Opportunity to participate in additional policy projects and engagements as they arise, including the California Global Biodiversity Alliance and International Union for the Conservation of Nature events

Requirements

This position requires that the applicant is currently enrolled in a graduate college program in a relevant field.

Qualifications

Understanding of state-wide public policy issues related to and conservation (or a willingness to learn this area) is preferred

Skills

• Accountability and ability to meet deadlines
• Collaboration and respect for diverse perspectives
• Independent research and application of findings
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google Drive)

Benefits

Benefits are limited to up to 40 hours of paid sick time that accrues every bi-weekly pay period

Pay

This position is funded for a maximum of 145 hours at the rate of $25.00 per hour

Schedule

Days and hours of work meetings are generally within Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm, but specific hours will be flexible depending on the successful candidates and Point Blue’s needs. Remote/hybrid employees should choose a work environment that is free from distractions, has a reliable internet connection, and supports the employee’s ability to dedicate their full attention to their job duties during work hours.