ResilientWoodsHole Summer Internship

Job Summary

ResilientWoodsHole (RWH) is a private-public initiative that includes Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Marine Biological Laboratory, National Oceanographic and
Atmospheric Administration, Town of Falmouth, as well as the Woods Hole Village
businesses, organizations, and community members. RWH is working to develop strategies for increasing coastal resiliency within Woods Hole. RWH has taken steps in climate resilience planning, such as evaluating areas in Woods Hole vulnerable to sea level rise and coastal storm flooding and identifying solutions for those areas. RWH has also developed a robust outreach and engagement program, including a RWH Climate Walking Trail, a climate resilience exhibit at the Nobska Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, and launched a volunteer RWH Ambassador Program. RWH is searching for summer interns to help us develop and execute other outreach and engagement projects, as well as help maintain our current efforts.

Job Description

This internship offers a local college student the opportunity to engage in creative, hands-on work in a variety of projects that will help foster awareness and action surrounding climate change, particularly in the context of Woods Hole. The intern will gain valuable experience in research, community engagement, science communication, content creation, event coordination, and educational programming.

Key Responsibilities:

The intern will collaborate with RWH staff on a variety of outreach and engagement initiatives, with responsibilities that may include:

• Assist in the development and execution of outreach and engagement activities related to climate resilience, with a focus on the Woods Hole community and surrounding areas, including a regional climate resilience survey.
• Desktop research of adaptation solutions and their feasibility of implementation in the Village
• Create and curate content for RWH’s social media platforms, including videos, interviews, and posts that highlight RWH’s initiatives and raise awareness of climate resilience issues.
• Support the planning and coordination of local events, workshops, and educational programs.
• Collaborate with local schools and educators to develop climate literacy and resilience lesson plans and educational resources for middle and high school students.
• Contribute to ongoing community engagement projects such as the RWH Climate Walking Trail, RWH Ambassador Program, and public exhibits.
• Work closely with community partners and stakeholders to foster collaborations and support new initiatives that enhance local climate resilience and literacy.
• Provide general support for outreach activities and help organize and manage outreach materials, event promotions, and follow-up communications.

Qualifications:

• Strong interest in climate change, resilience, and community engagement.
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, speaking, and visual media.
• Experience with social media, content creation, or video editing is a plus.
• Organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Previous experience in event planning, outreach, or educational programming is a plus.
• Local residents or those familiar with the Woods Hole/Falmouth area are encouraged to apply.

Additional Job Requirements

• Internship duration: Approximately 12 weeks
• Internship work hours: 10-15 hours per week
• Internship type: In-person with some possibility of hybrid work depending on project needs.
• Must have own housing and ability to commute to Woods Hole

Hourly salary range: $18-23/hour

The hourly rate provided for this position reflects the set base pay for new hires. Final level placement will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. This position is non-exempt, casual and eligible for casual benefits. 

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to the attention of Irina Polunina-Proulx. In your cover letter, please describe your interest in climate resilience, familiarity with Woods Hole or another coastal community, and how you believe your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of this internship.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.