You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

Marine Debris Intern

Clean Ocean Action
Email

This full-time internship position with Clean Ocean Action (COA) is an exciting opportunity for a student to learn and engage in actions to address pollution in coastal watersheds in New Jersey. The Marine Debris Intern will provide programmatic support for the Corporate Beach Sweeps, lead a microplastic pilot program, and help prepare for the statewide Fall Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps. The Marine Debris Intern (MDI) will also support and participate in policy initiatives to help reduce pollution from plastics. 

In addition to the primary tasks and providing the expected outcomes, there may be additional time for an optional independent research question related to an area of interest to be discussed during the interview process. This project will be developed in consultation with additional COA staff if needed. 

In sum, under the supervision of COA’s Debris Free Sea Coordinator and guidance by the Executive Director, the Marine Debris intern will provide support to build and improve programs to inform and engage people of all ages about the sources and associated harms of marine debris, and how people can help be the solution to this man-made problem. 

The Marine Debris Intern will perform the following specific tasks in each marine debris program area: 

Corporate Beach Sweeps: 

  • Attend Corporate Beach Sweeps programs, to be held at Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook throughout the time of the internship
  • Plan and organize logistics of the Corporate Beach Sweeps 
  • Provide educational overview and conduct activities with corporate volunteers
  • Assist with compiling data and photos to share with corporate partners and assist with planning for the Corporate Beach Sweeps Annual Report 
  • Assess and evaluate participants’ changes in behavior
  • Assessing sustainability practices of recent corporate partners 

Beach Sweeps: 

  • Assist with administration of Spring Beach Sweeps data (e.g., digital archiving, file management and organization) 
  • Help with preparations and the organization of materials for the Fall Beach Sweeps, including supply inventory and preparation and outreach duties 

Independent Research Project (an optional aspect of the internship): 

  • topic TBD based on Intern’s interest
  • deliverable summarizing research in the form of a poster, paper, or other format expected
  • Examples of topics could include additional microplastic pilot study, engage with local businesses and restaurants to monitor the implementation of and compliance with pollution reduction laws and policies, and solutions to plastic pollution 

At the completion of the internship, this intern will have a greater understanding and firsthand experience in: 

  • ocean and water quality threats and solutions in coastal watersheds 
  • outreach tools to raise and improve awareness
  • program planning, implementation, and management
  • community engagement
  • design & completion of an independent research project (if chosen to pursue)

Qualifications 

  • Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science/Studies or Marine Science, or similar field 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google applications 
  • Proficiency with scanning documents and accurate filing of documents
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills and experience
  • Knowledge of water quality issues and threats a plus 
  • Highly organized, detail oriented, and creative 
  • Team player 
  • Energetic and enthusiastic 

Requirements
The summer internship is full time and located at COA’s office in Long Branch, NJ. Location for programs and events related to the internship position will vary depending on the program and type of task performing that day/week. Early start and late evenings, while not routine and usual, can occur, especially for position-related events, programs, and meetings. The internship will include participation in the Corporate Beach Sweeps, which will occur at Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook Unit. Monthly stipend and travel expenses (excluding commuting) are paid. College credit (arranged by the student with the university/college) is available.

It is essential to the success of the programs and the overall internship experience that the applicant lives within close proximity to the Long Branch office to sustain commuting. No housing or transportation is provided. Usual office hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday; however, the position requires flexibility and availability to work early morning and early evening hours, if needed. COA offers flexibility for excessive hours when necessary. The position requires use of a reliable vehicle, the ability to pack and deliver supplies, and a willingness to travel throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Business casual attire is expected and can vary depending on the activities. Position may include offsite work in all weather conditions, including extreme heat and/or rain and wind. The start date is mid-May and the end date is mid-late August. 

Application Instructions

Interested applicants should demonstrate enthusiasm and basic knowledge of environmental issues, organizational and communication skills, creativity, and willingness to work hard. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

To apply, send (i) a cover letter (including local address), (ii) resume, (iii) a writing sample that reflects your written and/or visual skills, and (iv) a list of 3 references with affiliations and contact information to: Office@CleanOceanAction.org with “Marine Debris Internship_YOUR NAME” as the subject line. 

 About COA  

Clean Ocean Action is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to protecting marine water quality in the New York Bight (those waters between Montauk Point, NY, and Cape May, NJ, and extending to the continental shelf). COA spearheads campaigns with broad-based coalitions of boating, business, community, conservation, diving, environmental, fishing, religious, service, student, surfing, and women’s groups. COA identifies sources of pollution and takes actions to stop them using research, education, and citizen action. For more information about COA visit www.cleanoceanaction.org.

COA is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and staff members without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just to do the right thing, but because it makes the organization stronger.