Healthy Streams Fellow

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive.

In Kansas more than 80% of streams are unsuitable for one or more human uses. These unique and fragile freshwater ecosystems continue to lose their diversity at an alarming rate. But many Kansas streams can be restored, and a few are still nearly as pristine as they were historically. The Healthy Streams for Kansas Initiative focuses on streams in our priority areas that fit one of these categories: those that reasonably can be recovered, and those that need protection from pollution or development. The Fellow will help advance the mission of the Healthy Streams Initiative.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Healthy Streams Fellow may do research and review scientific literature, map data, assist with fieldwork, attend meetings with partners, and other work to advance the Healthy Streams Initiative. The fellow may work in one or two project areas across Kansas including advancing irrigation technology and water conservation in central Kansas, monitoring and protecting urban streams in the K.C. Metro area, environmental flow management and data collection on the Kansas River, and/or regenerative agriculture projects in the Smoky Hills.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

The ideal candidate should have data management, collaboration skills and exceptional research experience in related field. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the ongoing mission of conservation by contributing to the work of our team!

The Fellow will work 35 hours per week for up to 10 weeks from June through August and will be paid $15 per hour. The Fellow will work primarily virtually but may travel around the state to visit project sites, as circumstances allow.

Learning Experience:

• May interact with partner organizations and the public via Zoom or in person, as local conditions and Fellow’s personal circumstances allow.
• Works under close or infrequent supervision.

Working Conditions/Physical Effort:

• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for long periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age during the time of the fellowship.
• Currently studying towards a degree in natural resource management, wildlife biology, environmental science, water resources, environmental finance, cultural studies with an environmental component, or other relevant field.