The GIS Internship is an opportunity for an advanced college, graduate, or post-graduate student to work with CCI and other Defenders staff at the interface of science, technology, and national conservation policy. In this position, the intern may help collect and analyze large spatial datasets, create published reports, scientific articles, web applications, and maps related to the conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Skill development will vary with the specific project, but the intern will generally have the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of how the ESA is implemented in practice and experience in geographic information systems (GIS), cartography and mapping, statistical analyses, scientific writing, and creating interactive data visualizations.

Responsibilities:

Assist the CCI’s GIS staff in developing and implementing mapping projects that demonstrate and/or evaluate wildlife conservation policy and practice by:

Collecting and organizing relevant spatial data/databases;
Conducting spatial and non-spatial statistical analyses;
Creating online maps; and/or
Working with staff across Defenders’ departments to achieve project objectives.

Qualifications:

Interns must be self-starters driven by the opportunity to help transform wildlife conservation using science and technology while learning new skills. Interns should have a passion for wildlife conservation, strong research and analytical skills, a proven ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred qualifications:

Experience collecting, managing and analyzing research data;
Geospatial skills, including work in QGIS or ArcGIS;
Familiarity with and strong interest in relevant web mapping platforms (e.g., ArcGIS Online, Google Earth Engine);
General understanding of animal and plant biology, particularly North American species;
Basic familiarity with the ESA process and associated regulatory documents; and
Background in environmental science, wildlife management, natural resources, or a related field.

Location:

Internships are located at Defenders’ Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Remote work is not an option for this internship.

Compensation:

Unpaid. Local transportation costs up to $10 per day will be reimbursed. Students are encouraged to seek funding opportunities through their schools or outside sources.