Ecological Restoration Summer Internship

River Partners; Turlock (CA); On-site; USD 10,561 - 12,650; Full time

Job summary

River Partners, located in Turlock, CA, is offering an Ecological Restoration Summer Internship. Interns will support habitat restoration projects on the San Joaquin River by collecting and analyzing plant and wildlife data, performing data entry, and carrying out research on riparian restoration.

The ideal candidate is a student pursuing a degree in biology or natural resources with the ability to work outdoors in challenging conditions. This role offers a compensation of $13/hr for full-time work over 8 weeks.

Qualifications

• Eligibility to work in the U.S. and a valid driver's license.
• Physical ability to ambulate over rough terrain in high temperatures.
• Strong work ethic and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Support habitat restoration projects on the San Joaquin River.
• Collect and analyze plant and wildlife data outdoors.
• Perform data entry and management.
• Undertake a self-directed research project on riparian restoration.
• Monitor vegetation in hot conditions and collaborate with the field team.

Skills

Knowledge of native and invasive riparian plants and wildlife

Experience with handheld GPS units

Knowledge of GIS software (ArcPad, ArcGIS)

Data entry using Excel

Excellent verbal communication skills

Excellent written communication skills

Education

Student pursuing a degree in biology, natural resources, or related field

Job description

Ecological Restoration Summer Internship

River Partners helps local communities reconnect and revitalize floodplains and river landscapes across California. We are a private, non‑profit organization with offices in Chico, Sacramento, Turlock, and San Diego. Our mission is to demonstrate environmental improvement through large‑scale river restoration and empower communities through partnership and collaboration.

Program Dates: June 2020 – August 2020 (8 weeks)
Location: Turlock, CA
Compensation: Full time $13/hr

Position Description: This internship allows students to support habitat restoration projects on the San Joaquin River. Interns will hike outdoors collecting and analyzing plant and wildlife data, perform data entry and management, and undertake a self‑directed research project on riparian restoration. Responsibilities include monitoring vegetation in hot conditions, working early morning shifts (often starting at 6 a.m.), and collaborating with the field team.

Qualifications: • Student pursuing a degree in biology, natural resources, or related field.
• Eligible to work in the United States and possess a valid driver’s license.
• Physical ability to ambulate over rough terrain in temperatures exceeding 90°F.
• Strong work ethic, independent work ability, and willingness to learn.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Preference for knowledge of native and invasive riparian plants and wildlife, experience with handheld GPS units and GIS software (ArcPad, ArcGIS), and data entry using Excel.

Previous field experience is desirable but not required.