Ecosystems Technician Internship 2014

The Mayne Island Conservancy Society (MICS) is looking for 1-2 highly motivated, enthusiastic people to fill 14 - 16 week internship position(s) on Mayne Island. Applicants must be 30 years old or younger and have been a registered full-time student in the previous academic year and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in the next academic year. 

MICS works with the community to preserve the ecological integrity of Mayne Island. We do this with the help of volunteers by delivering two major stewardship programs: Mayne Island Community Stewardship and Mayne Island Shoreline Care programs. 

Start Date: May 12th, 2014
End Date: August 29th, 2014 
Hours: 35 hours a week, expected to work at Saturday markets up to every other Saturday. 
Wage: $15/hour 

To apply: Email cover letter, resume and 3 references to Rob Underhill (biologist@conservancyonmayne.com). 

Application deadline is March 2nd. Interviews will be held March 10th– 14th on Mayne Island. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Visit http://conservancyonmayne.com to learn more about MICS. 

Phone: 250-539-5168 
Address: 478 Village Bay Rd., Mayne Island, BC. 

This position is pending funding through the Canada Summer Jobs Program 

Description: This position will include the following activities: 

• Conduct eelgrass and kelp mapping and monitoring by kayak 
• Collect geographic data using Garmin and Trimble GPS units 
• Conduct data entry and assist with production of maps using GIS software 
• Communicate project goals to the public at the Farmers Market 
• Assist with the training and coordination of volunteers 
• Participate in ecological restoration (invasive species monitoring and removal, planting native species, maintain and repair deer fencing) 
• Native plant propagation (seed collection, planting, watering, etc.) 
• Create environmental education materials 
• Assist with organizing stewardship workshops 
• Assist with identifying local species and ecosystems 
• Encourage environmental stewardship through site visits with landowners 

Skills Acquired: Intern will learn how to: 

• Conduct a mapping survey by kayak
• Collect geographical data and create maps using GIS software
• Learn about terrestrial and nearshore marine ecology 
• Coordinate volunteers and work with the public 
• Encourage environmental stewardship 
• Conduct ecological restoration 
• Identify native plants and ecosystems 
• Native plant propagation 

Skills and Qualifications (Required and Asset) 

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to work with the public in a professional manner 
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and in a group 
• Ability to operate a kayak and work in a variety of weather conditions outside 
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills 
• Ability to be flexible and creative 
• Must have a passion for stewardship and conservation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems 
• Preference will be given to applicants currently enrolled in a post-secondary program in the following areas of study: biology, resource conservation, geography, environmental science, environmental studies, or related field 
• Preference will be given to applicants willing to relocate to Mayne Island for the summer 

Asset Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of local marine and terrestrial ecosystems 
• Knowledge of local conservation issues 
• Field survey experience
• Experience coordinating volunteers 
• GIS knowledge and experience 
• Plant identification 
• Native plant propagation or horticulture experience 
• Invasive species management experience 
• Experience working with youth 
• Graphic design 
• Valid first aid certificate or willingness to acquire 
• Use of own vehicle desirable (reimbursed at $0.50/km)

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