Science Communications Intern

Science Communications Intern at the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE), Belize

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Science Communications Intern to join the Research and Monitoring team at The Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE).

TIDE is a Belizean NGO working to protect some of the most pristine coastal and marine ecosystems in Central America, including the healthiest coral reef in the whole Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. TIDE works by building local capacity for conservation and fostering community participation in sustainable management of natural resources.

TIDE is one of the leading conservation organizations in the region and is pioneering new approaches, including the first implementation of a Managed Access fishery policy in the Belize Barrier Reef as well as an award-winning environmental education and sports competition, the TIDE Freshwater Cup.

Position Summary:

The Science Communications Intern will work under the supervision of the Science Director to support all activities of the Research and Monitoring Department at TIDE. This is an interdisciplinary position offering experience in a variety of professional fields in research, conservation, resource management, stakeholder engagement, outreach and advocacy. Furthermore, there will be opportunities to engage in other program areas, such as education and media outreach.

The successful candidate will have a diverse skillset and experience in applying research and engaging stakeholders to facilitate management of natural resources. You will be responsible for raising awareness of TIDE’s research activities including creating content for the website, articles for newsletters, and developing media outreach strategies. Minimal training will be provided and the successful candidate will need to be proactive and self-sufficient.

You will have the opportunity to participate in various fieldwork activities during your internship.

Primary Duties:

• Producing articles, press releases and other communications materials relating to Research and Monitoring activities.
• Writing monthly updates for internal communication relating to departmental activities.
• Producing a monthly newsletter for external audiences.
• Updating TIDE’s social media page with R&M news, photographs, and video.
• Creating content for TIDE’s website to serve as a public resource and showcase the activities of the R&M

Additional Responsibilities:

• Coordinate research and monitoring activities with other departments of TIDE including media, development, education and outreach. Provide relevant support when need arises.

Qualifications:

• A good quality Bachelor’s Degree in communications, marketing, or relevant field with a strong preference for interdisciplinary connection to environmental science
• Website management experience
• Excellent writing skills applicable to a range of purposes; press releases, educational materials, advocacy materials etc. Should feel confident delivering complex information to stakeholders with limited understanding or awareness of environmental issues
• Proficient with Desktop publishing and graphic design software.
• Competent with at least one video-editing package, such as Final Cut Pro or Vegas Pro 11.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
• At least one year’s experience living and working in a relevant capacity in tropical developing countries and in other cultures.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills. Competent working independently and as part of a team with limited direct supervision to complete deliverables to a high standard on time.

Strongly Preferred:

• Knowledge and experience with regional coral reef monitoring protocols, such as MBRS and AGRRA.
• Initiative, energy, enthusiasm and creativity. Interdisciplinary in nature
• Sufficient funds to come to Belize (if not Belizean) and support yourself for at least 6 months.
• At least 1 year proven experience in a media/communications position
• Spanish language skills.
• Good understanding of fisheries science and interest in community-based fisheries management

The successful candidate will be proactive and self-sufficient. Benefits of volunteering for TIDE include:

• Experience living in a developing country an among people of other culture
• A chance to gain valuable experience
• A chance to make a lasting, positive impact
• Living and working in a beautiful, peaceful, multi-cultural Caribbean town
• Being part of a friendly and dynamic team of committed individuals in a leading Belizean conservation NGO
• Opportunities to visit areas managed by TIDE and get involved in other aspects of TIDE’s work
• Adventure in a country with pristine ecosystems, world-class snorkeling and SCUBA diving

Please see our website (http://www.tidebelize.org/) for more information about our programs and activities and our Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TIDEBZE for the latest news. Please direct any questions to Ms. Alexandra Smith at asmith@tidebelize.org

To apply, please send your c.v. and a cover letter with the subject line “COMMUNICATIONS INTERN” to asmith@tidebelize.org by Friday, 24th January 2014. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted with requests for further information.