Ornithological Research Internship

Duration: 12 weeks (June-August)

Mission of Riveredge

Riveredge is more than a nature center. Its legacy as a pioneer in the areas of land restoration, research, and  inquiry-based education throughout Wisconsin serves as a strong foundation to its future initiatives. Today,  Riveredge is redefining the role of the nature center in the community by empowering and supporting  communities to live in harmony with their natural environment.

Riveredge has a rich history of avian research, education, and conservation. For more than 30 years, we have conducted ornithological studies that inform conservation efforts while engaging the public in understanding the importance of birds and their connection to large-scale ecosystem health. Our avian research and monitoring initiatives create meaningful opportunities for education, outreach, and community involvement for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Position Purpose

The Riveredge Nature Center Research & Conservation Ornithological Research Internship is a unique 12- week opportunity for an individual in the field of  environmental research and education, with a specific interest in ornithology. The intern will assist the Research Manager with all aspects of avian research and monitoring projects including planning, fieldwork, data management, education and outreach and report writing. 

Summer ornithological research, monitoring, and education efforts at Riveredge include:

• Bird Banding Program 
  • Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) (est. 1999) 
  • Bird Genoscape Project 
  • Range-wide Wood Thrush Motus Project 
  • Bird banding workshops, classes, and demonstrations 
• Breeding Bird Surveys (est. 1980s)
• Eastern Bluebird Restoration and Nest Box Monitoring (est. 1980)

Responsibilities

• Act as an integral member of the Research & Conservation team.
• Work with the Research Manager and experienced, highly skilled volunteers to learn site-specific research protocols, techniques and procedures for ornithological research and monitoring efforts 
• Assist with preparation, coordination, field work and data collection, quality control, entry, submission, analysis and reporting of avian research and monitoring efforts including, but not limited to: 
  • Weekly passerine (song bird) banding 
  • Breeding bird surveys 
  • Motus nanotagging and telemetry monitoring
• Design a research question to investigate and summarize findings in a report to be shared  
  • As a presentation at Riveredge’s annual Student Research Symposium in November
  • As a publication in the Riveredge newsletter or other local organization publication such as the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology’s Passenger Pigeon or Badger Birder
• Other duties as assigned.

Position Expectations

We are seeking individuals with an interest in birds and wildlife ecology. While prior experience in bird banding is not required, candidates with previous exposure—or a strong interest in gaining experience—are preferred. This internship is ideal for early-career biologists, ecologists, and birders of all skill levels who are interested in pursuing education or a career in the field. The position is designed as a hands-on opportunity to build practical skills and strengthen a resume.

Applicants should be comfortable working collaboratively, as interns will work closely with staff, volunteers, and other interns. Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow established protocols are essential, particularly when collecting and entering data to ensure the integrity of long-term research datasets.

In addition to the Primary Duties, the Ornithological Research Intern is expected to meet the following  expectations set forth to all staff members of Riveredge Nature Center: 

• Meaningfully contribute to the Riveredge community.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive environment through personal actions such as supporting and  helping other staff members and volunteers. 
• Provide high quality customer service experiences to all guests and volunteers. 
• Strive for excellence and innovation. 
• Aspiration to teach and enjoy working with children of all ages and families. 
• Strong desire for personal growth and a commitment to learning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Student, recent graduate or young professional, with background/coursework in natural sciences or related fields 
• Strong interest in Ornithology, looking to expand skills and knowledge in bird banding techniques 
• Ornithological background such as field experience, a college course or equivalent knowledge base
• Experience with data collection, research methods, scientific writing,
• Willingness to work early mornings starting before sunrise.
• Ability to work outdoors for 4–8 hours in varied weather conditions and rugged environments.
• Ability to physically traverse the Riveredge trails with ease. 
• Responsible, strong work ethic, professional demeanor, motivated and likes to have fun on the job.

Compensation & Working Conditions

This unpaid position requires that the intern will work 12-24 hrs/wk (hourly flexibility available), including early start times before sunrise (4 – 5 am) at least 1 day each week. Most hours will take place during the Monday-Friday work week, with some potential weekend opportunities.

Housing may be available at the Riveredge Intern House just minutes away from Riveredge at the expense of the intern.  If the Intern chooses to take college and university credit with this program,  Riveredge staff will work with him/her to fulfill requirements when applicable. 

This position reports to the Riveredge Research Manager.