To be successful in our mission, The Nature Conservancy requires a strong scientific foundation for conservation actions. This requires using the best-available data to ensure that our conservation actions are both timely and maximally effective. However, it can be challenging to manage data across a variety of projects, platforms, and data types, and historical records are often difficult to access and use in decision-making. Within a learning environment, the undergraduate database intern will provide a novel and fresh perspective to the management of data from a globally important seabird sanctuary in New York. We are seeking purpose-driven interns to join us in transforming long-term data collection and storage to help maximize the value of the data for conservation decision-making
The intern will work remotely with the New York Oceans Team to help compile long-term monitoring records from Great Gull Island, New York into a database to further conservation work. Great Gull Island is one of New York’s most important seabird sanctuaries and the world’s largest breeding colony for the endangered Roseate Tern. Scientific data have been collected from this colony since the 1950s; however, data are currently stored across multiple platforms and formats, and older data sheets are stored only as digital images. The intern will use their background and expertise in data management and database design, as well as innovation and critical thinking, to create an intuitive, searchable data archive for the island that can be used to conduct analyses and develop conservation strategies. This will include building a database to house diverse records on seabird diets, productivity, and return rates; creating a user-friendly system that allows users to search, query, and analyze data and metadata (e.g., observer identity, hours of effort) and generate reports across multiple projects; and introducing new methods and best practices in data recording and maintenance into the day-to-day operations and work of Great Gull Island. This project will leverage the intern’s unique skillset in informatics to serve the conservation needs of a thriving research program for years to come.
Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate academic program for the duration of the internship.
Located in New York, U.S.A. for the duration of the internship.
Experience working in a team environment.
Experience using research tools and computer systems.
Experience with data management, data archiving, database creation, and quality control.
Experience supporting complex projects and strategic initiatives in an unstructured environment.
A desire to grow in this role and tackle big challenges through a learning-by-doing approach.
Willingness to work remotely and independently (with guidance) 35 hours per week from 12 weeks.
Willingness to commute to any Nature Conservancy office in New York on an occasional or regular basis to connect with local TNC staff and interns.
Ability to communicate accurately, transparently, and to apply feedback.
Ability to use technology (Microsoft Suite, Zoom, etc.) for collaboration, or willingness and dedication to learn.
True interest in bringing your expertise, unique background, and diversity of thinking to a conservation organization.
Passion for science, conservation, change management, activism, leadership, creativity.
A strong sense of ethical responsibility.
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $17.00 -$20.71 hourly. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
Employees must submit their application by logging into Workday and applying via the Jobs Hub.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.

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