Environmental & Natural Resources Internship

Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma•McLoud, OK

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

This internship falls under the Kickapoo Department of Environmental Programs of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma. Operational hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., or as may be needed. We are seeking a college student in environmental, biological, or related studies for a wetlands-focused internship funded as a sub-award by the Oklahoma Conservation Commission through the Southern Great Plains Wetlands and Prairie Collaborative in Oklahoma and Kansas Grant. The successful candidate will gain knowledge in how to identify wetlands, experience in ArcGIS, and community outreach/education. In addition, this position may also work with the Kickapoo Agriculture and Natural Resources Department. The ideal candidate should have an interest in wetland health, environmental processes, and natural resource management while respecting cultural heritage. The hired intern should expect to work in the office as well as out in the field. As this position works intimately with Tribal resources, the ideal candidate has a deep understanding of tribal culture and land stewardship.

Requirements

High School Diploma
Actively pursuing higher education in biology, water sciences, environmental sciences, or a related field is preferred
Valid Driver’s License
Above average physical performance and stamina to work in challenging environments and elements such as extreme temperatures and work outdoors in various weather and environmental conditions
Ability to communicate and interact effectively with other crew members, directors, tribal members, government employees and the public
Ability to read, comprehend and follow written policies and work orders
Familiarity with standard office software, such as word processors and spreadsheet programs
Familiar with Canva and Microsoft Publisher
Ability to work effectively as part of a crew and coordinate with other technicians and tribal departments
Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and keep the office well-organized
Ability to do the work with or without direct supervision
Must be able to pass a drug screen and background check

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of ArcGIS applications for mapping and data tracking
Understanding of natural resource management, including water samples and testing
Deep understanding of tribal culture, and land stewardship
Ability to troubleshoot because work may occasionally be in distant locations or on challenging terrain without immediate access to the tribal offices

Responsibilities

Answer and direct phone calls
Draft and distribute emails, letters, and other documents
Serve as a professional liaison for internal and external contacts
Prepare, format, and edit reports, presentations, newsletters, flyers, and other documents
Maintain organized filing systems (both electronic and physical)
Order and maintain office supplies
Ensure office equipment is in good working order
Coordinate with external resources
Assist team members with various tasks
Support project management by tracking deadlines
Help maintain databases
Assist in the field with wetland assessments, including but not limited to water sampling, invasive plant removal, species index, and preparing management plans
Cooperate with other departments, including the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, in supporting other relevant tasks such as natural resource management
Collecting and preparing biological and soil samples for analysis by an outside lab
Ability to read and follow the directives from the test results
Participating in safety training and sessions
Completing any training as deemed necessary to complete duties of the job
Integrate traditional ecological knowledge into wetland initiatives, promoting cultural revitalization through habitat assessment and wetland improvements
Attend or participate in outreach activities, training, workshops, or conference events to support education and sharing information on wetland benefits and conservation
Perform other duties as assigned
Undertake a variety of miscellaneous duties as assigned by the Director or a team leader