RESEARCH INTERN

Under general supervision of the Nature Center Manager, works with the Naturalist to conduct research. 

• Must be capable of regular and predictable attendance at a specified location in order to perform assigned tasks.
• Performs the following specific tasks:  
  • March to April 2024 - Completes the vernal pool depth measurement and water quality testing 
  • April to June 2024 - Completes populations surveys record coordinates and plans for species collection in 
  • June to August 2024 - Completes post population survey and data collection 
• Conducts research, prepares reports, and summarizes findings
• Performs literature reviews to collect information and supporting evidence   
• Attends various project meetings and prepares/presents progress reports
• Travels to various sites to conduct research; may include hauling equipment and/or materials 
• Operates equipment such as mowers, chainsaws, power tools and any other equipment deemed applicable to complete tasks
• Other duties may be assigned

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

• Supervision is received from the Nature Center Manager.

• No functional or administrative supervision exercised.

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required.
• Must be a postgraduate or a current student or with at least 3 years of college level education in Natural Sciences, Biology, or Education. 
• Must possess and maintain a valid Iowa Driver’s License and be insurable under county guidelines.
• Valid Iowa Class D (Chauffeurs) driver’s license preferred.
• Knowledge of research methods. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.  
• Excellent time management skills are required.
• Ability to conduct field research and complete written findings. 
• Ability to pull a trailer and operate small equipment such as mowers, snow blowers, and utility terrain vehicles. 
• Ability to effectively present information on a one-to-one basis or in small or large group situations to visitors, clients, and coworkers of the department. 
• Ability to provide high level customer service and maintain professional working relationships with employees, county officials, oversight agencies and professional partners, vendors and general public.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds frequently and 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to multitask.

The work environment and physical demand characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.   Refer to the “Essential and Marginal Function Analysis” statement for a complete description of essential functions and functional requirements.

• Position requires frequent exposure to outdoor elements which may include heat, humidity, cold, rain, snow, live or dead animals, animal waste, odors, filthy environments, and insects.
• Must be able to walk on uneven or heavily wooded ground for the purpose of assisting with trail and natural resource maintenance. 
• Position requires frequent use of hands to finger, handle, or feel; ability to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; ability to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance.
• Position requires frequent communication/interaction with co-workers, children and the general public.

Salary : $14