Marine Protected Area Collaborative Network

Civic Engagement and Underwater Exploration Internship

Host:  Marine Protected Area Collaborative Network

The Marine Protected Area Collaborative Network (MPACN)​ is a grassroots organization that unites diverse voices to shape the management of California’s 124 marine protected areas. With 14 local collaboratives (e.g., chapters), we connect community members with state agencies to foster collaboration, transparency, and resource sharing. The MPACN provides a platform for meaningful discussions on local needs and ensures community involvement in the protection and stewardship of California’s coastal environments.

Internship Dates: June 2 - August 15, 2025

Format: Remote (w/ the possibility of potential in-person activities depending on the intern's location).

Stipend: $8,000

Time Commitment: The internship is a ​full-time (40hr/week), 11-week commitment. Over the 11 weeks, the intern may take up to five days off for personal reasons, vacation, or illness. If participation is less than 100 percent, the stipend will be prorated.

Position Description and Responsibilities: One (1) position is available to work with regional specialists (based on location of chosen intern) as well as on statewide projects. The intern will actively engage with their local collaborative, participating in outreach, policy discussions, and compliance efforts. On a statewide level, the intern will contribute to MPA trainings and climate-related initiatives. Additionally, the intern will receive training in operating mini-remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for underwater exploration and will lead a local training session to connect the community with this exciting technology. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in marine conservation, community engagement, and underwater research. This internship offers ways to learn more about marine conservation, community engagement, and environmental education while working with both local and statewide conservation efforts.

Intern Responsibilities:

1. Local Collaborative Engagement

• Participate in and support local collaborative meetings and initiatives;
• Conduct outreach to community members, organizations, and stakeholders to increase awareness and participation;
• Assist in discussing local marine protected area (MPA) policies, compliance efforts, and conservation strategies;

2. Statewide Project Support

• Contribute to the development and delivery of MPA training materials and events;
• Assist statewide climate adaptation and conservation initiatives related to MPAs.

3. Underwater ROV Training and Outreach

• Receive hands-on training in operating mini-remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for underwater exploration;
• Lead local ROV training sessions to engage community members and foster interest in underwater research;
• Coordinate with local partners to organize ROV-related events and activities.

4. Research and Reporting

• Assist with gathering data and reporting on local MPA activities, outreach efforts, and compliance efforts;
• Help track progress and outcomes of local and statewide projects;

5. Administrative and Logistical Support

• Assist with the coordination and logistics of local and statewide events, trainings, and meetings;
• Support the preparation of materials, presentations, and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
  

Preferred Experience and Capabilities: 

• Familiarity with marine protected areas (MPAs) and with coastal management practices and policies is a plus;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills;
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail;
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team. Able to work collaboratively with staff and external partners to achieve joint goals;
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic work environment and handle multiple tasks;
• Previous experience with event coordination and meeting organization is a plus;
• Proficiency (oral and written) in a second language is a plus. Spanish, Traditional Chinese/Mandarin, Korean, and Tagalog are particularly valuable, but support in any language is appreciated.
  

Skills Gained: This internship offers valuable experience in project management, community engagement, and technical skills development. The intern will coordinate local and statewide conservation initiatives, lead outreach efforts, and work with diverse stakeholders to promote marine protected area awareness and buy-in. Training in operating mini-remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for underwater exploration will build technical expertise, while opportunities to present and create outreach materials will enhance communication and public speaking abilities. The intern will gain insight into policy and compliance efforts, collaborate with state agencies and conservation organizations, and develop problem-solving skills while navigating real-world challenges in marine conservation. Additionally, the intern will enhance cultural competency by engaging with a variety of communities, making this internship a well-rounded opportunity for hands-on learning in environmental conservation.​

Eligibility/Requirements: The interns must be authorized to work in the United States. Travel within California may be required. Reliable mode of transportation is required. Applicants are also subject to general eligibility requirements​​.

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