Job opportunity: Orono Bog Boardwalk Summer 2024 Interns (Apply by 4/19/24)

The Orono Bog Boardwalk (OBB) is currently accepting applications for two Boardwalk
intern positions for summer 2024.  These part-time positions (20 hrs/week) will begin
following the UMaine graduation in early May and end the last week in August, with an
option to be re-hired through the fall semester. Applications are welcome from
undergraduates with academic background and interests that include, but are not
limited to, wildlife biology, ecology and ecosystem science, biology, zoology,
environmental chemistry and microbiology, botany, aquatic sciences, environmental
adaptations, resource economics and parks, recreation, and tourism. Applicants must
be registered for at least 6 credit hours in the fall 2024 semester. Student interns join a
group of enthusiastic volunteers as boardwalk docents whose collective duties include
opening and closing the OBB gate daily; greeting visitors and answering questions
about bog natural history; informing users of specific boardwalk rules; selling OBB t-
shirts, hats, and other items that help support operations of the OBB; providing local
area information and insight; and generally monitoring the day-to-day operation OBB.
Interns report problems to the Director and/or maintenance coordinator. The Orono Bog
Boardwalk is about 5 miles from the UMaine campus so interns must provide their own
transportation.

The ~1-mile Orono Bog Boardwalk loop trail begins at the forested East-West trail of the
Bangor City Forest. The boardwalk passes through a wide range of changing vegetation
and habitats on its way to the open, peat moss carpeted center of the Orono Bog.
Seven informational kiosks placed along the boardwalk illustrate common species of
bog plants and animals, with explanations to go along with them, to describe the
changing environment along the trail. The boardwalk is a wheelchair-friendly facility. 
Interns will receive training about this unique environment.
Applications received before April 19, 2024, will be given full consideration. Applicants
should include a cover letter with a statement of research interests and goals for the
internship period (no more than 2 pages). The application should also include the
names and email addresses of two referees. Submit inquiries and applications to the
OBB director, Dr. Rebecca Van Beneden, via email (rebeccav@maine.edu).