Biodiversity Conservation Policy Intern

Biodiversity Conservation Policy Intern at Point Blue Conservation Science

Location: Hybrid/Remote (must reside within the United States)

Duration: Estimated duration is September 2024- December 2024

Start Date: approx. September 1, 2024 (ideally, candidate will start on or before September 15, 2024)

Deadline to Apply: Aug. 23, 2024

Position Type: Seasonal, Part-time (approx. 10-20 hours/week, 240 hours maximum)

Compensation and Benefits: This position is funded for a maximum of 240 hours at the rate of $20.00 per hour; benefits are limited to up to 40 hours of paid sick time that accrues every bi-weekly pay period.  

About Point Blue:

Point Blue Conservation Science is a growing and internationally renowned non-profit with over 160 staff and scientists based in Petaluma, California. Founded in 1965 as Point Reyes Bird Observatory, our mission and programs have evolved over time to include a broad range of conservation activity, from restoration to environmental education to innovative work in the field of regenerative agriculture.  We have a proven track record of scientific excellence.

We recognize that increasing racial, gender, cultural, and other diversity, equity, and inclusion factors at Point Blue and in our partnerships is essential for the success of our mission, vision, and strategy. We are actively engaging in a process to create lasting organizational change. We seek applicants from all backgrounds to join our teams. We strongly encourage applications from people with backgrounds that are under-represented in the conservation community.

Job Summary:

Point Blue Conservation Science seeks a Biodiversity Conservation Policy Intern to help coordinate efforts of our  California coalition — known as the California Global Biodiversity Working Group (CGWBG) —  focused on connecting global, state and local biodiversity policies, including through the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The intern will collaborate with Point Blue and the California Global Biodiversity Working Group (an existing coalition of California-wide NGOs, city governments, agencies, elected officials and the IUCN) to prepare for engagement at the 2024 UN Biodiversity COP (Convention on Biological Diversity COP-16) global negotiations in Cali, Colombia (October 21 to November 1, 2024). The intern will conduct outreach to diverse partners to help track progress of sub-national governments toward the goals and targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework.  A capstone project for the intern will likely include an opportunity to help coordinate coalition global biodiversity engagements at COP-16, and the opportunity to produce additional relevant biodiversity policy materials. 

Essential Functions:

• Participate in the California Global Biodiversity Working Group’s production of policy and communications materials related to CBD COP 16. Specific duties will include sending emails, making phone and zoom calls, and helping produce various outreach materials.
• Support coalition engagement and communications in preparation for CBD COP 16 attendance. Specific duties will include organizing meetings, interviewing partners, compiling information related to planning for COP, helping draft talking points, and coordinating with delegate members.
• Outreach to relevant groups and agencies across US states to help engage and develop a multi-state initiative relevant to CBD COP 16 and global biodiversity policy, in coordination with both CGBWG and the IUCN
• Attend at least weekly meetings with the CGBWG and IUCN
• If logistics allow, attend the UN Biodiversity COP-16 in Cali, Colombia with the Point Blue delegation

Supervisory Responsibility:

None

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Understanding of state-wide public policy and conservation-related policy issues (or a willingness to learn this area) is preferred
• Accountability and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate and work respectfully with people with a variety of perspectives.
• Ability to seek, accept, and incorporate feedback is necessary.
• Ability to conduct independent research and apply findings to practical projects.
• Ability to manage and prioritize tasks to meet project deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Spanish speaking is a plus.
• Experience working with tribal nations is a plus.
• Skills to use basic computer programs (Microsoft Office spreadsheets, word processing, presentation and email programs; skills operating Google Drive programs including Google Sheets, Docs, and Slides.)

Certifications and/or Licenses:

• Valid US driver’s license and favorable driving history, and proof of auto insurance.

Preferred Education and Experience:

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

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• This position operates in a remote or hybrid environment between a home office and professional office setting. This position may also work from remote field locations with uneven terrain, limited vehicle access, limited cell phone reception, and sometimes in a solitary capacity.
• Work environment is primarily indoors with the majority of time spent at a desk.
• Routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, scanners, and filing cabinets.
• Ability to move up to 20 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to use a computer, keyboard, and calculator.
• The opportunity to travel internationally to the 2024 UN Biodiversity Conference in Cali, Colombia with Point Blue’s delegation may be an option offered to this position.

Position Type, Expected Hours of Work, and Travel:

• 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.

Point Blue is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, disability status of an otherwise qualified individual, membership or application for membership in an uniformed service, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law and will make reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities to complete the application and/or participate in the interview process.