The Coastal Wildlife Network (CWN) is a conservation program of Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans, Louisiana.

CWN works in conjunction with the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Regional Office, US Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as other Northern Gulf of Mexico partners to respond to dolphin, whale, and sea turtle strandings within the state of Louisiana. The main goals of the program are to enhance stranding response to marine mammals and sea turtles across the state, keep detailed records of these strandings, and to collect and test samples acquired during necropsy and/or response.

CWN is based out of the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center (FMASSC)—one of the facilities run by Audubon Nature Institute. Housing is provided during the duration of this internship on FMASSC property. FMASSC is a unique piece of property that expands approximately 1,000 acres in an area south of downtown New Orleans.

Interns will gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside the CWN stranding team during Louisiana’s peak stranding season. Throughout the internship, the individual will become an integral member of the CWN stranding team. Due to the unpredictable nature of strandings, interns may be required to work long days, with weekend and holiday coverage. Live animal rehab is possible but should not be expected throughout the duration of the internship. Hours expected per week can range from 20-40 hours.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with stranding response, and beach surveys
• Participate in necropsy events
• Assist with finalizing paperwork and database entry
• Maintain field equipment
• If rehab animals present:
• - Diet preparation and feeding
• - Assisting staff with veterinary procedures when required
• Additional projects may include:
• - Digitizing archive data
• - Vehicle maintenance
• - Organization/restocking field supplies

Qualifications:

• Be 18 years or older
• Preferably a recent college graduate with interest in marine biology or conservation biology
• Be physically fit and able to lift at least 50 lb
• Have the ability to endure unpleasant conditions, extreme temperatures ranging from 40-100 °F, rain, humidity, biting insects, and prolonged exposure to the sun
• Possess good communication skills, and the ability to work in group settings or alone
• Have experience using Microsoft Office Suite
• Previous experience with Digital SLR cameras is preferred, but can be trained

Housing/Compensation:

Shared housing is provided during the duration of the internship, but there is no financial compensation. The selected candidate will be responsible for their own transportation and food.

Application Process:

Interested applicants are encouraged to send their cover letter, resume, letters of recommendation and dates of availability to Gabriella Vazquez at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than January 7^th, 2022 to be considered. Preference will be given to those who can stay through the entire internship period. Application review will begin immediately.

Location: New Orleans, LA
Application Deadline: January 7^th, 2022
Position Start & End Dates: Feb 15-May 31, 2022 (some flexibility in start/end date)