Environmentalstewards is hiring: Science Communication Assistant - AmeriCorps in

Can this position be fully remote: No

Number of positions available: 1

TERMS OF SERVICE

Duration: 12 Weeks (not flexible)

Flexible Start Date: Yes

Start Date: 05/19/2025

End Date: 08/11/2025

AmeriCorps Slot Classification: 450 Hour

BENEFITS

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $1,956.00 upon successful completion of position.
• Living Allowance of $565.00 per week.
• Relocation Allowance of $400.00 distributed as a one-time lump sum.
• Student Loan Forbearance if applicable (administered by MyAmeriCorps, directly).

APPLICATION TIMELINE

The position will close after receiving 75 applications, or at 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, 19 January, 2025, whichever occurs first. The review of applications will begin after Sunday, 19 January, 2025.

PURPOSE

This Science Communication Assistant is an AmeriCorps position that will assist with communication and education for the South Florida/Caribbean Network. The I&M Division engages in cutting edge monitoring and research, yet we often lack time to communicate our results to the greater public and local communities and visitors to the parks. Effective communication of science to the public is crucial for fostering understanding, trust, and informed decision-making. It empowers individuals to engage with complex scientific issues, from climate change to health crises, and encourages critical thinking.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

This position is a marine ecology and science communication position which focuses on the intersection of marine science and effective public outreach. Members work alongside the SFCN Marine Ecologist and Fish Biologist to gain hands-on experience in field research, data collection, data entry and analysis of marine ecosystems – including seagrass, coral and reef fishes' communities. Simultaneously, they develop communication materials—such as articles, videos, and social media content—to share findings with the public and raise awareness about marine conservation.

KEYWORDS: Ecology, Communication, Data management, Data Visualization

DELIVERABLES

PowerPoint presentation of results to SFCN staff and SFCN regional parks. Visualization outreach tools and compliant outreach products suitable for inclusion on the SFCN website and network park’s social media platforms.

QUALIFICATIONS

• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien.
• Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.
• Prior to starting the position, agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check for the employer of record, Conservation Legacy, and a separate government security background check for the NPS site location.
• The applicant must be available to participate for 12 Weeks in order to be considered and participate.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

An undergraduate student who is earning a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, marine ecology, environmental management, or a related field is preferred. This position requires a blend of communication and research skills which include writing experience, data management and an interest in education and public outreach. Experience in GIS and a certificate of training in SCUBA diving is also desirable.

ADDITIONAL POSITION AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION

POSITION SETTING

Local housing is available in the Miami Dade area and surrounding communities. The rental market is relatively expensive. We would consider placement in Everglades National Park or in St. John, USVI at Virgin Islands National Park if low-cost park housing was available. A remote assignment, although not ideal, could also be considered.

VEHICLE AND DRIVER’S LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

• Applicant must have a valid driver's license to drive a government vehicle.
• A personal vehicle is REQUIRED for this position.

HOUSING

Park housing is available and will be provided at no cost to the participant. Park housing is available at Pine Island in Everglades National Park; this is a substantial distance from the SFCN office (26 miles away - 40 min drive time - a personal vehicle is necessary). The housing is group housing, with up to 2 housemates.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online, all Scientists in Parks positions are listed at: https://conservation-legacy.breezy.hr/. Complete the application for this position, highlighting why you are interested in the position and how your background and experience will help you succeed in this position.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Conservation Legacy is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential functions. Some positions may require periodic overnight travel, non-traditional hours, ability to move across varied terrain, use program-specific tools and a range of technology on an infrequent or frequent basis.

TIME REQUIREMENTS

• This position is expected to serve full time each week, but exact service schedules may vary.
• Lunch breaks will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service hours.

ORIENTATION AND TRAINING

• Orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities.
• Pertinent training from the NPS site location throughout the term of service.

EVALUATION AND REPORTING

As an AmeriCorps member, performance will be evaluated on whether the member has completed the required number of hours, the member has satisfactorily completed assignments, and if the member has met other performance criteria that were clearly communicated at the beginning of the term of service.