STEM APPRENTICESHIPS: The San Diego Natural History Museum science research apprenticeship program provides training and mentoring in curation, multidisciplinary research, and museum collections to students to prepare them for continued advancement in biological sciences, which can translate to career pathways in academia and research, as well as biological consulting.

CONSERVATION BIOLOGY APPRENTICE POSITION DESCRIPTION: The apprentice will contribute to the Healthy Canyons Initiative, which focuses on understanding the current state of biodiversity in San Diego’s urban canyons. Potential tasks include the following: conducting field surveys to assess biodiversity; compiling and organizing environmental, biodiversity, and other types of data associated with canyons; and assisting in community outreach. Field work is multidisciplinary, but the Apprentice will primarily focus on large mammals and vegetation. Training will include daily instruction, guidance, and follow-up for all tasks assigned.

RESPONSIBILITIES 

Primary responsibilities include: 

• Conducting field research with a team of Nat scientists  
• Data organization and management  
• Support community science and outreach events 

Responsibilities may also include: 

• Research and analysis to understand biodiversity in urban canyons, (based on interest and experience)

Final Evaluation: 

The Apprentice will create a report / presentation on their work at the end of the apprenticeship to staff and volunteers at the Nat. This will likely be data-focused, so an interest in data and data visualization is preferable.   

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Interest in conservation biology and natural history 
• Ability to hike up to 8 miles across rough, uneven terrain while carrying 10+ lbs in hot and/or inclement weather 
• Strong communication skills with attention to detail 
• Organizational skills 
• Technology skills; experience using ArcGIS products (i.e., Field Maps and Pro) a plus 
• Ability to identify southern California mammals and plants to species a plus 

ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must:

• Reside in San Diego County and attend a community college or university in San Diego County (or recent graduate). 
• A special emphasis is placed on recruiting students in San Diego County who are members of groups underrepresented in STEM careers. 

HOURS: Up to 250 hours total. Flexible schedule. Some remote work may be possible.

LOCATION: San Diego Natural History Museum; field work in San Diego’s urban canyons; some remote work may be possible.

COMPENSATION:  College and university students will be paid at $18/hr.

Employees enjoy free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.