Human Resources Intern

Reports to: Director of Human Resources
Department: Human Resources & Facilities
Position: Two part-time internships (winter break and/or spring semester with
potential for continuation)
Salary: Unpaid; however, we do have an attractive Intern Recognition Program. Interns receive certificates to be used towards a qualified Earthwatch expedition, an exciting opportunity to participate in important field research projects.
Posting date: December 2006
Closing date: Rolling application process

Earthwatch Institute is an international, non-profit organization that engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. 

An Earthwatch internship will allow you to gain valuable work experience, build your skill set, broaden your work experience, and profit from networking opportunities. You will be exposed to the different scientific disciplines and the process of scientific funding. Get an insiders view as to how the day-to-day business of a non-profit organization differs from the corporate world. Witness first hand the cultural relations between Earthwatch headquarters and our affiliate offices in the U.K., Australia, and Japan.

Interns are treated as regular staff members; you will go through an orientation program, receive a written job description, be assigned a mentor, and will be invited to participate in all Earthwatch related activities from guest lectures to social events. Interns fill a vital role in our organizational structure and we will treat you accordingly.

Responsibilities:
The HR intern is responsible for supporting the Director of HR in a variety of personnel and facilities related tasks. Duties include:

  • Research HR Information Systems
  • Conduct a non-profit benefit survey
  • Update the intern job descriptions and post on Earthwatch website
  • Create a spreadsheet for recruitment contact information
  • Post job opportunities
  • Review resumes
  • Respond to candidates
  • Keep employee vacation & sick tracking up-to-date
  • Support HR Director with health plan open enrollment period
  • Reorganize personnel files
  • Help plan all Earthwatch parties and functions
  • Create new hire orientation package and check list
  • Create information files on: FMLA, unemployment, performance plans, performance reviews, discrimination, job shares, work/life benefits, etc.

Skills and experience:

  • Currently enrolled in bachelor's degree program or graduate. Ideally with a background in HR or management.
  • Work experience in an office environment.
  • Strong ability to multitask, handle details and to maintain organization.
  • Interest in Human Resources, Management, Non-profit organizations, etc.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and be discrete.
  • Articulate and confident in communications.
  • Proficiency in Word, Excel, Powerpoint and web research.
  • A commitment to the Earthwatch mission.
  • Minimum time commitment of 10 hours per week.

Due to the size of the program and limited time and financial resources, I am only able to accept Massachusetts based applicants into the program, or those with a confirmed place to stay within commuting distance to Maynard, MA. Applicants must currently be eligible to work in the United States.

Please send cover letter and resume to hr@earthwatch.org; fax 978-897-0935; mail HR Earthwatch Institute, P.O. Box 75, Maynard, MA 01754-0075.