Science Communication Assistant

• Acadia National Park, ME - Remote (any location)

Site Location: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Maine

Can this position be fully remote: Yes

Number of positions available: 1

TERMS OF SERVICE

Duration: 12 Weeks (not flexible)

Flexible Start Date: Yes

Start Date: 05/26/2025

End Date: 08/18/2025

AmeriCorps Slot Classification: 450 Hour

BENEFITS

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: $1,956.00 upon successful completion of position.
• Living Allowance: $565.00 per week.
• Relocation Allowance: $400.00 distributed as a one-time lump sum.
• Student Loan Forbearance: if applicable (administered by MyAmeriCorps, directly).
• Student Loan Interest Payments: if applicable (administered through 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 support resource managers who need scientific information to take informed actions in the face of threats to park resources. Citizen science can provide high-quality information that exceeds the capacity of resource managers and professional scientists. Such projects also help volunteers and visitors build intellectual and emotional connections to parks. Thus, citizen science can directly advance the NPS mission of conservation and public enjoyment.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

This position fills a significant NPS-wide need for communicating to resource managers and public audiences about citizen science activities in national parks across the country. The Science Communication Assistant will write and publish web articles for nps.gov/citizenscience that tell stories about citizen science projects, how they inform resource management, and how they engage diverse public audiences. Key duties include:

1. Participate in orientation activities for all members and fellows at Schoodic Institute and Acadia National Park.
2. Develop a general understanding of citizen science in the NPS by reading relevant policy and guidance documents.
3. Become familiar with good practices for science communication and web writing in the NPS.
4. Work with Steering Committee to find and identify potential stories at parks across the country.
5. Pursue promising story opportunities.
6. Develop article outlines, interview key participants, draft articles, acquire supporting images, and revise based on peer review.
7. Participate in season close-out presentations and panel discussions.

DELIVERABLES

Final drafts of 3-5 articles about current citizen science projects in parks across the country, likely in the range of 1,500 – 3,000 words each.

QUALIFICATIONS

• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien.
• High school diploma or equivalency certificate; or agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.
• Agree to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check.
• Must be available to participate for 12 Weeks.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Current graduate students, recent graduates, or senior undergraduate students with a degree or major in journalism or communications are desired. Experience with writing for the web, interviewing professionals, and synthesizing information is preferred.

ADDITIONAL POSITION AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Acadia National Park preserves approximately 50,000 acres along the Maine coast. The member will work in a comfortable modern office on the Schoodic Institute campus.

HOUSING

Park housing is available at no cost, including a private bedroom in a furnished apartment.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online at: https://conservation-legacy.breezy.hr/. Complete the application for this position, highlighting your interest and background.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

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.