Policy Intern Position The North American office of Whale and Dolphin Conservation, based in Plymouth, MA, is seeking interns to assist with marine policy issues directly relating to marine mammals. Successful candidates will gain knowledge of existing regulations, the process of implementing policy changes, and the current issues that remain the focus of WDC's policy efforts. The selected interns will work directly with the Executive Director. WDC holds seats on the federally appointed Atlantic Large Whale, Harbor Porpoise, and Atlantic Trawl Gear Take Reduction Teams to reduce entanglements of marine mammals in fishing gear, and works extensively on mitigating vessel strikes and harassment of large whales. Tasks can/will include: * Drafting and submitting comments on proposed changes in mitigation * Networking with other NGO organizations * Attendance at meetings and public comment forums * Analyzing data relevant to policy issues * Conducting literature and online searches for pertinent information Candidate Requirements * Fluency in English. * Must be 18 years or older, preference given to students matriculated in or recently graduated from appropriate graduate or under graduate degree programs. * Be able to show proof of valid health insurance and valid driver's license. * Act effectively as a member of a close-knit team. * Be open to long days (12 hours or more sometimes) in the field or office. * Good computer skills - familiarity with operating PCs and/or MACs, preference for candidates with mapping skills. * Excellent verbal and written communications skills. * Familiarity with current marine policy issues. * Ability to function well under pressure. * Must be comfortable speaking in front of groups of all ages and able to handle unanticipated situations. * Minimum commitment of three months required. International candidates must demonstrate ability to legally participate. Applications We are currently accepting applications to fill 1-2 positions; however those seeking an internship position for the spring or summer must submit applications by February 20th, 2013. We will continue to accept applications on a 'first come first serve' basis until the available positions have been filled. Please submit the following via e-mail to monica.pepe@whales.org<mailto:monica.pepe@whales.org>: 1. Cover letter and Resume (no more than 3 pages) 2. Contact information for two references including e-mail and phone numbers 3. A supporting document answering the following: Fishing line entanglements prove to be a constant and frequent threat to North Atlantic right whales and other large whales. The Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team is currently tasked with mitigating risk from vertical lines. In one to two pages, present a strategy to mitigate this risk, keeping in mind the perspectives of all the stakeholders. Applicants should make sure they clearly indicate their availability in their cover letter. Successful applicants will be contacted to set up an interview. More information is available at www.whales.org<http://www.whales.org>. Any additional questions should be directed to Monica Pepe via email at monica.pepe@whales.org<mailto:monica.pepe@whales.org> or by calling the office at (508) 746-2522. [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation]<http://www.whales.org/> Monica Pepe Project Supervisor Telephone: +1 508 746 2522 Skype monica.c.pepe WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation 7 Nelson Street Plymouth MA 02360-4044 United States whales.org<http://whales.org> [WDC on Facebook]<http://www.facebook.com/whales.org> [WDC on Twitter] <http://www.twitter.com/WHALES_org> [WDC on YouTube] <http://www.youtube.com/wdcsuk> [WDC Blogs] <http://www.whales.org/wdcsblog.php> [WDC E-Newsletter] <http://www.whales.org/newsletter> [http://www.wdcs.co.uk/media/images/EmailSignatureImages/Campaigns/WDCSchanged.png]<http://www.whales.org/wdc.php> ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC"), Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Your contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. WDC, 7 Nelson Street, Plymouth, MA 02360-4044 Tel: +1 (508) 746-2522 This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. Please note that any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Finally, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The company accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ________________________________