2026 Science Illustration Apprentice

Point Blue Conservation Science • Petaluma, CA

2d • $20 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

This science illustration apprenticeship focuses on bringing peer-reviewed scientific publications to life. The apprentice will be provided with a curated selection of key publications and facilitated access to staff authors and associated field sites. The overarching goal is to merge art and science to increase engagement in conservation concepts and actions, providing an early-career scientific illustrator with meaningful knowledge, skills, and hands-on experiences in conservation science. Learning goals include exploring how to represent ecological studies and conservation efforts through illustration, enhancing skills to engage target audiences in conservation science goals, and practicing the process of creating and completing a science illustration project in collaboration with a team.

Requirements

• Early career science illustrator with 2 to 5 years of experience practicing science illustration.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a science/nature illustration program or consistent science illustration work.
• Strong interest in engaging people in conservation issues and solutions (e.g., climate change, pollution, energy use, nature-based solutions, habitat restoration).
• Ability to work in the U.S. (Point Blue is unable to offer visa sponsorship).
• Must have the equivalent of a minimum of 2 years experience in a science/nature illustration program or doing science illustration work consistently.
• Possess a strong interest in engaging people in conservation issues and solutions (like, climate change, pollution, energy use, nature-based solutions, habitat restoration, etc.).

Nice To Haves

• Experience and/or desire to incorporate social justice into projects.
• Multilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Develop a work plan with the supervisor.
• Conduct research and field immersion with program staff.
• Present project concepts to staff.
• Create and refine science illustration projects.
• Prepare for and deliver a final presentation.
• Manage and deliver final files.
• Participate in an exit interview and other wrap-up tasks.

Benefits

• Paid sick time (up to 40 hours).
• Transportation reimbursement at the federal rate for personal vehicle use to field sites from within 20 miles.
• Loaner binoculars and scope available.
• Housing available at shared field house ($65.59/week or $131.18 bi-weekly).
• Up to $600 available for art supplies and printing costs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed