Intern with NVT

Our internships are usually connected to specific projects. This means the activities you take part in and working hours will depend largely on the internship available, though they’re likely to be long and a degree of flexibility will be required. You’ll certainly be helping out with our regular events though such as bird ringing, flower walks, surveys and/or holiday programmes. We’ll also give you the opportunity to take ownership of your own mini-project depending on your expertise and interests and we’ll talk you through the options available when you arrive.

You’ll stay in the volunteer/intern house, which is situated in Nature’s Valley about 200m from the office and 1.8km from the local (and only) shop. It’s a 3 bedroom wooden structure and you’ll most likely be sharing a room with another intern. There are plenty of facilities including an open plan lounge/kitchen where you can cook your meals, a braai (BBQ) out back and a washing machine and a tumble dryer for you to do your laundry while you’re with us. There is also wifi at the house.

Click on the image below for the current outline of the internship programme.

Many hands make light work and the input and knowledge of a conservation student are invaluable in supporting what we do. We also recognize that a career in conservation is competitive with many positions requiring lots of experience. We’re eager to pass on our knowledge and expertise and develop the next generation of conservationists. It’s all about offering enthusiasts the opportunity to gain valuable experience so they can move forward with their careers. Many students or recent graduates are unsure just what working for a small conservation NPO is actually like – if that’s you, why not sign up and come find out!

We are preferably looking for people who have or are studying towards a qualification in a related biological field such as zoology, ecology, ornithology, conservation biology, environmental science, nature conservation, wildlife/natural resource/integrated coastal zone management, environmental education, etc. However, this is not absolutely essential! You will need to be highly self-motivated with a flexible approach and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Trustworthiness, integrity, dedication and a sense of responsibility are essential as is a keen interest in community-based conservation. You’ll also need a good level of physical fitness as there’s sure to be plenty of fieldwork for you to get stuck into. Previous experience in conservation is an advantage, but not necessary, as your willingness to learn and actively participate is most important!

Interested in joining our Internship Programme? Don’t take our word for it, why you should – why not browse through our previous interns and their blogs below and see what they each got up to? Also feel free to read up on our intern programme here.

Contact us to find out more and inquire about prices and availability.