The San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory (SFBBO) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability by engaging communities in avian science, habitat conservation, and education. We are hiring at least two individuals to join us as restoration ecology interns. The position will provide opportunities to work on all aspects of SFBBO’s habitat restoration projects, but will mainly be focused on nursery work, project implementation, and volunteer management. Seasonal ecologists will be asked to work at least one weekend day per week supervising volunteer events. This full-time position is based in Milpitas, CA, with field sites throughout the South San Francisco Bay and begins 3/17/2025 or as soon as possible, and will terminate on 12/31/2025.
In this role you will help SFBBO restore habitat in the San Francisco Bay by:
- Propagating native plants at our nurseries
- Managing irrigation schedules and regular maintenance tasks at our nurseries
- Managing invasive vegetation with methods including hand pulling, using hand tools, mowing, and (rarely) applying herbicide
- Preparing restoration sites by spreading mulch, straw, and/or seed
- Planting native plants from our nursery
- Conducting standardized vegetation surveys
- Supervising volunteers at our nursery and at on-site work days focused on controlling invasive vegetation or planting nursery stock
- Assisting with data management and report writing
- Leading groups of 5th and 6th grade students in restoration activities and nature walks around Alviso Marina County Park
Required Qualifications:
- BA/BS in biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field OR equivalent work/course experience and working towards a degree in a relevant field
- Strong interest in tidal marsh ecology and sharing scientific concepts with the public
- Some experience with CA native plant identification, common California invasive plants, and common basic plant survey techniques; knowledge of tidal marsh plants is a plus
- Some experience managing a nursery, including, inventorying, transplanting/ sowing, and/or facilities maintenance
- Strong independent work ethic, organizational skills, and attention to detail
- Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record (for traveling to and on field sites - SFBBO vehicles will be available for use; a reliable personal vehicle or transportation for reaching the SFBBO offices and nurseries IS required)
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Effective oral and written communication skills