Crane Conservation Fellowship

Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to contribute to cutting-edge research on endangered species? The International Crane Foundation (ICF) is seeking motivated and passionate individuals for our Crane Conservation Fellowship. This unique opportunity offers hands-on experience working with North America's iconic crane species – Greater Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes – primarily in central Wisconsin. Fellows will be deeply involved in studying crane behavior, ecology, habitat use, and more, contributing directly to conservation efforts that are vital for the long-term survival of these remarkable birds. 

The position runs from March 1, 2025, through February 28, 2026, and includes a stipend of $1,500/month plus housing. Would you like to be surrounded by people who are passionate about our mission, dedicated to the organization, and engaged with their fellow staff and associates? Then read on.

About the Role

As a Conservation Fellow with the International Crane Foundation, you will play an essential role in a variety of research, fieldwork, and outreach efforts to support crane conservation in the upper Midwest. In the field, you will assist in observing color-banded cranes to gather data on their productivity, habitat use, and breeding pair dynamics, while also monitoring risks posed by avian and mammalian predators and evaluating the effectiveness of habitat management actions. You will also help track free-ranging Whooping Cranes via radio-tracking, primarily in Wisconsin but potentially in other nearby states as well. Additional fieldwork involves deploying and maintaining trail cameras to capture behavioral data that contributes to research on crane movements and interactions with their environment. The role will also support the capture and banding of both adult and juvenile cranes, collecting environmental samples to aid in the monitoring and conservation of these species.

In addition to fieldwork, you will engage in outreach and education efforts, sharing the importance of crane conservation with a variety of audiences through virtual and in-person programming. This includes engaging with conservation partners and individuals (hunters, landowners, etc.) to promote awareness and protection of cranes and assist with monitoring cranes in the area. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with ICF staff to design, conduct, and present an independent research project that contributes to the broader scientific understanding of crane populations and their conservation needs. Fellows will gain hands-on experience in ecological restoration, including techniques such as prescribed fire and invasive species control, contributing to the restoration of critical crane habitats. Additionally, you will work closely with local communities, including hunters and landowners, to foster partnerships that support crane monitoring and conservation efforts throughout the region. Visit our website at https://savingcranes.org/about/careers/intern-opportunities/for a full job description.

Qualifications: 

• Education and Licenses: A Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field. Graduate students are encouraged to apply. A valid driver’s license is also required.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication abilities, including the capacity to convey complex conservation messages to a wide range of audiences, from one-on-one interactions to large presentations.
• Attention to Detail: Precision and accuracy are key in ensuring the success of data collection and project implementation.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with diverse groups, including the public, partners, stakeholders, and colleagues across departments.
• Physical Stamina: The ability to work long days in the field, is a must. Candidate should be comfortable working outdoors in all seasons and in challenging conditions. 
• Fieldwork & Research Skills: Experience with radio telemetry, behavioral observation, or trail camera deployment is preferred. 
• Additional Experience: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with environmental education or outreach is preferred.

How to Apply: Apply in minutes by sending a single document containing a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three references to icfinternships@savingcranes.org with the subject: “NAP Fellowship.” The deadline to apply is December 8, 2024. 

Join us in protecting cranes and the ecosystems they inhabit—together, we can make a difference!

“ICF is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion. We hire great people.” ICF is an equal opportunity employer.