The University of Florida’s Nature Coast Biological Station (NCBS, http://ncbs.ifas.ufl.edu) located
in Cedar Key, FL is seeking a student intern for the period of January – April 2016. The NCBS will
be collaborating with state and federal agency partners to better understand the impact of human
recreation on Florida’s manatee populations in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, which
was established in 1983 specifically for the protection of the endangered West Indian Manatee. This
unique refuge preserves the last undeveloped area in Kings Bay and provides critical thermal refuge
for manatee each winter. This research internship offers an excellent opportunity for a student to
work in partnership with UF faculty and agency cooperators to address an issue of critical
management and conservation concern in the region.
Job Duties: Duties may include but are not limited to: visual manatee surveys, visitor surveys, boat
surveys, scientific equipment deployment, data entry, report writing, GIS mapping, and other duties
as assigned.
Required Qualifications: Student must be in the process of obtaining a degree in a natural resource
field at The University of Florida. The ability to work in inclement weather conditions with biting
and stinging insects, poison ivy and in small boats for extended periods is mandatory. Candidate must
be a strong swimmer. Travel and some overnight stay is required. Housing will be provided for
overnight field work. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license to be able to drive government
vehicles.
Preferred Qualifications: Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage the public with
surveys and informal discussions are preferred. Successful candidates will work closely with NCBS
faculty, US Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife Refuge staff and volunteers. Prior field work
experience, GPS/GIS proficiency, and MS Access, Excel and Word computer skills are preferred.
Experience preferred that includes canoe/kayak use with some knowledge of small boat operation.
Work Schedule and Wages: The work schedule for this position can be adjusted based on the
student’s coursework, but the successful applicant must have at least two full free days available per
week, which can include weekends. The interns will be paid $14 per hour.
To Apply: Please submit a CV and contact information for three references to Mike Allen, Director
NCBS (msal@ufl.edu) by December 1, 2015. The CV should include the current GPA as well as
details of courses, experience and skills relevant to the position.
