Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Internship (Paid)

The internship begins on September 7, 2023 and runs through mid-March 2024.  Interns receive free housing and a monthly stipend of $1,760 before taxes. 

Apply Now: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/594518419  

Passionate about Passerines? Join our flock! 

The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Internship provides interns ex-situ conservation experiences and learning opportunities that apply field-related skills in an animal husbandry setting. Interns learn hands-on while working side-by-side with staff in one of North America's most unique conservation facilities. The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Internship is a paid, six-month, full-time position that includes free housing. 

About The Internship 

Interns participate in all aspects of the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow program under the supervision of skilled staff. Interns can expect to learn a variety of skills, including: 

Diet preparation, insect management, feeding, and cleaning 

Bird introductions and management 

Observation skills and knowledge of sparrow behavior, including identifying vocalizations and tracking individual birds by colored band 

Safe avian capture, hand restraint, and transportation 

Habitat maintenance including landscaping and fabrication  

Research skills including sample collection, camera trapping, video monitoring, rigorous daily data management, and reporting  

General reintroduction techniques including pre-release conditioning 

Artificial incubation and hatching (Summer only) 

Egg management and candling (Summer only) 

Hand-rearing passerines as needed (Summer only) 

Non-chemical fire ant control methods (Winter only) 

Prescribed fire techniques and participation (Winter only) 

Eligibility Requirements 

Applicants must meet all requirements and submit an online application including all required materials to be considered. 

Previous avian experience required, passerine handling and mist-netting experience preferred  

Keen eyesight to identify small birds and bands from a distance 

Good hearing ability to differentiate soft/quiet sounds and calls 

Strong attention to detail and data management skills 

High drive to learn, be self-motivated and enjoy challenges 

Highly adaptable to changing environments or animal care needs 

Ability to lift 50 lbs. repetitively, and remain standing, walking or crouched over for long periods of time 

Experience working outside in high heat and humidity 

Enrolled or recently graduated from school (< 3 years)  

Hold a valid driver’s license and health insurance 

Able to pass a drug test upon starting 

Legally able to work in the United States (US Citizen, Permanent Resident, or hold an Employment Authorization Document)  

Able to work well independently and in a team environment 

Able to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed or on a regular basis 

Why Intern with White Oak? 

White Oak is a working conservation facility with over 17,000 acres of land focused on species recovery, education, and land restoration. Nestled along the St. Mary's River in mixed wetland and forest habitats, White Oak experiences mild winters, and humid summers, with lots of frequent thunderstorms. White Oak is a certified member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and a founding member of Conservation Centers for Species Survival.  

The Florida grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum floridanus) is one of the most endangered birds in North America. In partnership with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, White Oak has been breeding and releasing Florida grasshopper sparrows since 2019. Through the efforts of this recovery program, White Oak has released well over 500 sparrows back into the wild, quadrupling the wild population. 

The minimal handling management model upheld in this program has led to offspring that not only survive post-release but also breed and continue future generations in the wild. Interns focus on ex-situ work with the program, and are based at White Oak. While interns will have exposure to field team members and wildlife biologists during their time at White Oak, interns may or may not have an opportunity to observe the in-situ aspects of the program that are managed by our partner organizations. 

The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Conservation Internship requires a high degree of flexibility and a commitment to the assigned schedule and duties of the program. We are proud to have graduates who now work in field crews, zoological facilities, or who have pursued higher education in graduate programs focused on conservation. 

Living at White Oak 

Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Interns receive free housing during the internship. Housing is not available for any spouses/partners/dependents or pets. Housing includes all basic furniture, linens, and kitchen supplies including cookware, flatware, and dishes. Interns may have a roommate of the same gender. 

Required Application Materials 

Interested applicants must fill out an online application and include the following materials: Cover letter, Resume and Three (3) professional references. Questions? Email Training@White-Oak.org