Jobs & Internships

We are now accepting application for our 2025 internship program!

Virginia Working Landscapes (VWL) is a program of Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) that promotes the conservation of native biodiversity and sustainable land use through research, education, and community engagement. Interns will have a unique opportunity to develop skills in wildlife biodiversity research, native species conservation, and sustainable land use practices on Virginia’s working landscapes, while connecting with professionals in the Smithsonian’s network. 

Benefits of interning with VWL: 

  • Participation in current research on grassland biodiversity in Virginia.
  • Participation in multiple projects that will reinforce their skills in biodiversity monitoring and conservation.    
  • Connections with partnering conservation organizations working in various areas of conservation.   
  • Exchange of ideas with researchers in different science areas at NZCBI.   
  • Participation in seminars, VWL workshops and events, and other educational activities at NZCBI. 

At VWL, we value the strength that comes from a variety of perspectives and experiences, and we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive space for our entire team. As such, we encourage individuals from all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds to apply for our internship opportunities. 

We are currently accepting applications for an Avian Point Count Internship, Grassland Plant Ecology Internship, Cavity-Nesting Birds & Arthropod Research Internship, and Conservation Storytelling Internship! Please continue scrolling to learn about each position and how to apply.

Avian Point Count Internship 2025

Location: Front Royal, Virginia   | Dates: April – August 2025 

Stipend: $1400-1600/ month based on experience; housing provided 

This intern will be part of VWL’s grassland bird research and conservation team, gaining new skills in project management, field ecology, and communications of scientific results to the general public. Interns will also assist with public engagement activities related to grassland bird and biodiversity conservation. By participating in this internship, this intern will play a significant role in advancing our knowledge of local biodiversity and the impacts of land management and conservation practices on wildlife. 

Desired Qualifications

  • Prior point count survey experience and ability to identify Mid-Atlantic bird species by both sight and sound. 
  • Strong interest in grassland bird conservation and/or experience working in grassland systems. 
  • Excellent organizational skills and experience managing data using Excel spreadsheets. 
  • A strong work ethic and positive professional attitude. Interns will engage in fieldwork both as a team and individually and will likely be in a position where they will interact with landowners and volunteers. 
  • Must be able to walk long distances and begin work in the early mornings. Daily field conditions include walking through fields in hot, humid weather during the summer with ticks, and occasionally poison ivy.  
  • Ability to share housing with others, good communication, and flexibility to adapt to a changing schedule. 
  • Willingness to comply with the Smithsonian’s COVID-19 guidance, which may include being fully vaccinated for COVID-19.  
  • Driver’s license required. 

Learning Objectives

This is a paid internship opportunity through the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, the intern will assist with the following as they gain important experience with conservation science and engagement:

  • Develop project management skills through coordinating research activities on various privately-owned properties participating in VWL’s grassland biodiversity research program. 
  • Learn how to create a research calendar for site visits and coordinate with VWL community scientists and private landowners to schedule surveys. 
  • Build a portfolio of avian field research techniques including field identifications, systematic nest searching, mist-netting, tagging, and telemetry.  
  • Support VWL staff in mentoring VWL community scientists on grassland bird identification skills.  
  • Learn how to create data summary reports and visuals for various research projects.  
  • Develop communications skills by assisting with outreach events and meetings with stakeholders, key conservation organizations, and partners in the region.   
  • Learn data management and organization skills through the maintenance of large spreadsheets and databases. 
  • Assist with managing output from an array of projects to be carried out by staff, graduate students, other interns, and community scientists.  
  • Learn technical skills using software programs such as ArcGIS, R-Studio, and Excel.  
  • Develop skills in science writing and communication by contributing to VWL’s monthly Conservation Science Newsletter. 
  • Develop skills in social media communications and web-based outreach including creating content and materials for the grassland biodiversity research program. 

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter discussing your qualifications, resume, and contact information for three references in a single electronic document to Christopher Rademacher (rademachercj@si.edu). The close date is December 6, 2024, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Please indicate “Avian Point Count Internship” in the subject line. 

Grassland Plant Ecology Internship 2025

Location: Front Royal, Virginia   | Dates: May – September 2025 

Stipend: $1400-1600/ month based on experience; housing provided 

The intern’s primary tasks include assisting with our biodiversity surveys that seek to explore the impact of various landscape management and restoration practices on grassland plant ecology. Examples include conducting vegetation surveys to inventory grassland plants on private lands with community scientist volunteers The intern will survey a variety of species and assist in the management and analyses of relevant data; therefore, they will be playing a significant role in advancing our knowledge of local biodiversity and the impacts of land management and conservation practices on grassland ecology.  

Desired Qualifications

  • Some knowledge of grassland plants is preferred, but strong applicants with the aptitude to learn plant identification quickly will also be considered. 
  • Experience conducting vegetation surveys, organizing and working with large datasets, and using a GPS.  
  • Interest in studying grassland plant communities and motivation to explore research gaps in grassland plant conservation in relation to land management techniques. 
  • Excellent organizational skills and experience managing data using Excel spreadsheets. 
  • A strong work ethic and a positive professional attitude. The intern will likely be in a position where they will interact frequently with landowners and volunteers. 
  • Must be able to walk long distances and begin work in early mornings. Daily field conditions include walking through fields in hot, humid weather during the summer with ticks, and occasionally poison ivy.  
  • Ability to share housing with others, good communication, and flexibility to adapt to a changing schedule. 
  • Willingness to comply with the Smithsonian’s COVID-19 guidance, which may include, at minimum, being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and wearing masks in indoor workspaces. 
  • Driver’s license required. 

Learning Objectives

This is a paid internship opportunity through the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, the intern will assist with the following as they gain important experience with conservation science and engagement:

  • Learn and assist with field work for the 2025 season, including detailed and accurate data collection for plant surveys.  
  • Support VWL staff in mentoring VWL community scientists on grassland plant identification skills.   
  • Learn how to create data summary reports and visuals for various research projects.  
  • Develop communications skills by assisting with outreach events and meetings with stakeholders, key conservation organizations, and partners in the region.   
  • Learn data management and organization skills through the maintenance of large spreadsheets and databases. 
  • Assist with managing output from an array of projects to be carried out by staff, graduate students, other interns, and community scientists.  
  • Learn technical skills using software programs such as ArcGIS, R-Studio, and Excel.  
  • Develop skills in science writing and communication by contributing to VWL’s monthly Conservation Science Newsletter. 
  • Develop skills in social media communications and web-based outreach including creating content and materials for the grassland biodiversity research program. 

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter discussing your qualifications, resume, and contact information for three references in a single electronic document to Natalie Izlar at IzlarN@si.edu. The close date is December 6th, 2024, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Please indicate “Grassland Plant Internship Position” in the subject line. 

Cavity-Nesting Birds & Arthropod Research Internship 2025

Location: Front Royal, Virginia   | Dates: April – August 2025 

Stipend: $1400-1600/ month based on experience; housing provided 

We are currently seeking an intern to assist with grassland cavity-nesting birds and arthropod research on private lands near Front Royal, Virginia in a project in collaboration with the University of Maryland’s Department of Entomology. Start and end dates are flexible, but field work would begin approximately April 2025 and run through August 2025. Primary responsibilities include monitoring nest boxes, assisting with the capturing, banding, and tagging of grassland birds, arthropod sampling, data entry, and arthropod and bird identification. 

This intern will be part of VWL’s grassland bird research and conservation team, gaining new skills in project management, field ecology, and communications of scientific results to the general public. Interns will also assist with public engagement activities related to grassland bird and biodiversity conservation. By participating in this internship, this intern will play a significant role in advancing our knowledge of local biodiversity and the impacts of land management and conservation practices on wildlife. 

Desired Qualifications

  • Prior experience handling and banding passerines. 
  • Strong interest in learning arthropod sampling methods and/or identification. 
  • Strong interest in grassland bird conservation and/or experience working in grasslands.  
  • Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.  
  • A strong work ethic and positive professional attitude. Interns will engage in fieldwork both as a team and individually and will likely be in a position where they will interact with landowners. 
  • Must be able to walk long distances and begin work in early mornings. Daily field conditions include walking through fields in hot, humid weather during the summer with ticks, and occasionally poison ivy.  
  • Ability to share housing with others, good communication, and flexibility to adapt to a changing schedule. 
  • Willingness to comply with the Smithsonian’s COVID-19 guidance, which may include being fully vaccinated for COVID-19.  

Learning Objectives

This is a paid internship opportunity through the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, the intern will assist with the following as they gain important experience with conservation science and engagement:

  • Gain comprehensive understanding of grassland bird conservation, food web interactions, and ecology principles.  
  • Build a portfolio of avian and arthropod field research techniques including systematic nest box checks, bird banding, sweep netting, and identification.  
  • Develop leadership and project management skills through immersive experiences, including collaborative planning, field team coordination, data management, and problem-solving.  
  • Build interpersonal skills by communicating with multiple landowners, research partners and community members to promote program activities and conservation practices.  
  • Learn technical skills and provide assistance using programs such as ArcGIS, R-Studio, and Excel.  
  • Learn mentoring skills by working with undergraduate practicum students and classes.  
  • Assist with managing output from an array of projects to be carried out by staff, graduate students, other interns, and community scientists.  
  • Develop skills in science communication by contributing to our monthly Conservation Science Newsletter, where we summarize relevant research papers and articles from around the world to share with our community.  
  • Develop skills in social media communications and web-based outreach including creating content and materials for the grassland biodiversity research program. 

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter discussing your qualifications (including any relevant bird banding experience), resume, and contact information for three references in a single electronic document to Allison Huysman (huysmana@si.edu) The close date is December 15, 2024, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Please indicate “Cavity-Nesting Birds and Arthropod Research Internship 2025” in the subject line.  

Conservation Storytelling Internship 2025

Location: Front Royal, Virginia   | Dates: May – September 2025 

Stipend: $1400-1600/ month based on experience; housing provided 

The Conservation Storytelling Intern will assist in documenting Virginia Working Landscapes’ research and conservation efforts through visual storytelling. This internship is focused on impact-driven storytelling focused on land management and restoration practices. This internship emphasizes hands-on experience in conservation photography and videography, with opportunities to develop skills in pre- and post-production, as well as broader outreach and communication strategies. The intern will gain a deeper understanding of science communication, learning how to craft compelling narratives that highlight the importance of conservation work. 

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience in using a DSLR or mirrorless camera on manual mode  
  • Some knowledge of storytelling is preferred, but strong applicants with the aptitude to learn will also be considered.  
  • Familiarity with editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, or similar) 
  • Basic knowledge of sound recording and audio equipment for video production a plus 
  • Experience with or willingness to learn skills in social media, digital communications, and outreach efforts  
  • A strong work ethic and a positive professional attitude. The intern will likely be in a position where they will interact frequently with landowners and volunteers.  
  • Must be able to walk long distances and begin work in early mornings. Daily field conditions include walking through fields in hot, humid weather during the summer with ticks, and occasionally poison ivy.   
  • Ability to share housing with others, good communication, and flexibility to adapt to a changing schedule.  
  • Willingness to comply with the Smithsonian’s COVID-19 guidance, which may include, at minimum, being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and wearing masks in indoor workspaces.  
  • Driver’s license required. 

Learning Objectives

This is a paid internship opportunity through the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, the intern will assist with the following as they gain important experience with conservation science and engagement:

  • Gain experience capturing the essence of conservation work through impactful photography and videography techniques 
  • Practice creating cohesive storylines that highlight key conservation messages, from pre-visualizing shots to final edits 
  • Develop the ability to translate scientific findings and conservation practices into accessible, engaging content for the public 
  • Develop skills in communications, social media, and event planning 
  • Learn to adapt and problem-solve under changing field conditions, capturing high-quality visuals and audio despite environmental challenges 
  • Acquire best practices for organizing and labeling field media to facilitate easy access and continuity in data management 
  • Gain experience working within an interdisciplinary team, collaborating with scientists, field staff, and community members 
  • Build a professional portfolio of conservation-focused media to use in future career opportunities 

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter discussing your qualifications, resume (with portfolio if desired), and contact information for three references in a single electronic document to Brooke McDonough (mcdonoughsb@si.edu) The close date is December 15, 2024, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Please indicate “Conservation Storytelling Internship 2025” in the subject line.  

SUPPORT VWL

VWL is supported 100% by grants and donations and our work is made possible by the generous contributions from our community.

The Smithsonian Institution is a 501(c)(3). All contributions are tax-deductible.

Donate to VWL

GET IN TOUCH

Virginia Working Landscapes
Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
1500 Remount Road, MRC 5537
Front Royal, Virginia 22630

SCBIVWL@si.edu
540-635-0035

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