Salvage, Waste Reduction, Compost Intern

This internship is part of a larger volunteer program at the Presidio Native Plant Nursery in the GGNRA.

The Presidio is committed to sustainable practices; capturing and re-using most of the generated green debris, as well as reaching high levels of recycling and reuse diversion. 

The Salvage, Waste Reduction, Compost Intern will focus on learning all aspects of recycling outreach, identification of historical items and materials, as well as basics on managing a compost facility. 

Time Period: January 2006 to October 2006 40 hours/week Compensation: $75/week stipend plus housing at the Presidio 

Under the direction of the Waste Reduction Coordinator, Intern will: 

* Organize and Maintain Waste Diversion Data 
* Create a database of historical salvage. 
* Assist with identification and tagging of salvage items
* Assist with various work orders and refuse responsibilities
* Help implement and monitor recycling improvements in Presidio Trust buildings.
* Assist with the design and presentation of transfer station procedures 
* Assist with compost and compost tea production when needed. 
* Participate in plant propagation, seed collection, ecological restoration, and community-based restoration at native plant nursery
* Option to participate in weekly volunteer program and youth education programs 

Qualifications: 

* College level coursework in: compost/ soils, ecology, environmental education, natural resource management, horticulture or another related field; and/or good knowledge of ecology and sustainability issues 
* Ability to work with children and adults of diverse backgrounds
* Ability to work in groups and independently with little supervision
* Willing to perform physical or repetitive labor on a daily basis, generally outside 
* Ability to use basic computer programs 
* Excellent oral and written communication skills 
* Willingness to be trained and operate heavy equipment/ machinery including backhoe/ loader and tractor/compost turner 
* Ability to work safely and with dexterity with hand tools, especially pitchfork, hand pick, and shovel. 
* Basic carpentry and mechanical knowledge preferred 
* Able to lift up to 30 lbs. 
* Valid driver's license

The job is primarily active, although office work and indoor activities are required. Must be willing to work outdoors, under adverse weather conditions, around poisonous plants, dust, and invertebrate fauna.