Jobs

California’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. Heal the Bay is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment that respects all individuals regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical ability, religion or age. We are focused on recruiting and retaining a diverse team of employees, creating awareness of justice and diversity issues, fostering a positive environment where inclusive behaviors are the norm, and embedding accountability for diversity throughout the organization. We are committed to creating an environment where all employees are included, are treated with dignity and respect, and are in a position to contribute to our success.

Heal the Bay is seeking a part-time Associate Data Specialist will be to support a strong Data Team with Salesforce administration, user management, interface modifications and training, and with the flow of information throughout various databases. Read More »

About the Organization

Heal the Bay is a regional environmental nonprofit organization dedicated to making Santa Monica Bay and Greater Los Angeles’ coastal waters safe and healthy for people and marine life. Progress toward the mission is achieved by effectively combining the use of science, advocacy, community outreach, and public education to create positive change in our local environment. 

Heal the Bay commits to creating and maintaining a diverse team and inclusive culture that respects all individuals. We strive to foster a positive work environment where inclusive behaviors are the norm; prioritize our work through an equity and inclusivity lens; and create a space where all employees are welcomed, treated with dignity and respect, and are in a position to be successful. 

About the Role

The Associate Data Specialist will be a critical part of the Data Team, supporting the Senior Specialist with Salesforce administration, user management, interface modifications and training, and with the flow of information throughout various databases. This part-time, non-exempt position reports directly to the Data & Technical Senior Specialist.   

REPORTS TO: Data & Technical Senior Specialist  

Expectations & Responsibilities

  • Support Data team on Salesforce projects as needed (including reports, dashboards, duplicate management and data cleanup and migration) 
  • Utilize/Test integrations across platforms/systems with an emphasis on automation. 
  • Assist with data entry into Salesforce to ensure records are complete and accurate. 
  • Support ongoing staff training with data tools and resources, including, but not limited to: Zapier, Shopify, Classy, Eventbrite, Emma, Zoho, Zapier, PayPal, Stripe, OneCause, Microsoft Suite and more. 
  • Support research, development and deployment of Salesforce features that benefit staff and Heal the Bay. 
  • Keep abreast of updates to Salesforce and relevant technologies to maintain or improve processes within the team and organization at large. 
  • Other Data Team assignments as directed. 
  • Demonstrate a commitment to upholding and advancing the organization’s commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). 

Preferred Experience/Skills

  • Bachelor’s degree related to computers or data OR 1-3 years of equivalent experience. 
  • Demonstrated proficiency with Salesforce (bonus points for Nonprofit Success Pack!) administration and development. 
  • Excellent organizational, analytical and project planning skills. 
  • Strong ability to manage cross-departmental data projects and integrations. 
  • Meticulous, accurate, able to make careful and considerate changes. 
  • Understands data’s influence at differing levels and the need and advantages of automation. 
  • Self-starter with desire to innovate, update or replace existing processes for improving staff quality of life. 
  • Comfortable being self-sufficient in conjunction with being collaborative as a team. 
  • Proven ability to work under pressure, multitask and meet deadlines. 
  • Communicate effectively and efficiently to staff of varying technical ability. 
  • Patience & grit for finding solutions from different angles when one is not readily apparent. 
  • Able to move between various apps and technologies with ease. 
  • Knowledge of Python, SQL, JavaScript, HTML or similar languages. 
  • Strong passion for Heal the Bay’s mission and a love for the environment. 

If you don’t meet all the preferred skills above, you are still encouraged to apply and will be considered based on diverse and equivalent skills and experience.

Extra Credit DLC

  • Whimsy encouraged
  • Dry wit appreciated
  • Bad (or Great) celebrity impressions endorsed 
  • Spontaneous dancing approved 
  • Self-deprecation sanctioned 
  • Mistakes are a gift! Learn from them

Compensation

This is a part-time, non-exempt position. Hiring Range $23-27/hour based on experience, with appropriate state and federal taxes withheld.

Schedule

This position is a part-time (25-29 hours/week average) hourly position. Occasional deadline-related work may be required during evenings and weekends throughout the year.

Benefits:

In accordance with California Labor Law, employee will be eligible to receive up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year, after completing 90 days of employment. All Heal the Bay recognized holidays will be compensated in accordance with time worked. 

Physical Demands

The employee is occasionally asked to reach with hands and arms; the employee is regularly asked to talk or hear.

How to Apply

Application Deadline: April 30, 2023. Apply here. No phone calls or email inquiries please.

Heal the Bay is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County.

Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the hiring process. Once a conditional job offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking.

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Heal the Bay is seeking a full-time Senior Development Coordinator to focus on administrative coordination of the Advancement team, and professionally support the organization’s overall fundraising plan, as well as year-round campaigns. Read More »

About the Organization

Heal the Bay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1985.  They use science, education, community action, and advocacy to fulfill their mission to protect coastal waters and watersheds in Southern California with a particular focus on public health, climate change, biodiversity, and environmental justice.  Learn more about us at www.healthebay.org/our-impact and follow @healthebay on social media.

About the Role

Heal the Bay is seeking a full-time Senior Development Coordinator to support the organization’s fundraising strategy.  The position requires approximately 70% Administrative and 30% Fundraising.  Under supervision of the Vice President of Development, the Senior Development Coordinator will assist in increasing fundraising and ensure proper reporting of gifts in support of the organization’s mission.

Expectations & Responsibilities

  • Ensure Suits on the Sand (SOS) program meets corporate revenue goals. In coordination with Beach Programs Team schedule and ensure goals of corporate partners are met.
  • In cooperation with the Development Team, prepare reports and stewardship plans for SOS corporate partners.
  • Identify and cultivate relationships with corporations who could likely serve as donors for Heal the Bay’s clean water mission and other priorities. Steward a personal portfolio of companies for outreach to maximize giving.
  • Maintain accurate reporting of all donations and soft credits (Give/Get) for Board of Directors are reflected in Salesforce.
  • Ensure the timely acknowledgement and stewardship of donors with information captured in Salesforce.
  • Coordinate ticketing, recording, fulfilment, and guest registration for Heal the Bay events including Bring Back the Beach gala, Golf Tournament, and others.
  • Engage staff and other donors in procurement of in-kind donations for annual gala silent auction.
  • Review and provide updates on external, third-party events.
  • Support the organization’s execution of fundraising plan, which includes measurable goals, metrics, and specific strategies for expanding both levels and sources of support.
  • Consistently use Salesforce, OneCause, Docusign, Classy, donor search engines, and other software critical to recording, researching, prospecting, and cultivating relationships and donations.
  • Demonstrate a strong commitment to upholding and advancing Heal the Bay’s justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI).
  • Perform other duties as assigned or requested.

Preferred Experience & Skills·

  • Exceptional interpersonal and writing skills, possess strong attention to detail, demonstrate excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, and will ideally be proficient in Salesforce and Emma (or similar email platform).
  • Comfortable working independently as well as in collaboration with a team and across departments.
  • Four-year college degree preferred.
  • Ability to complete assigned tasks with accuracy and minimal direction.
  • Strong computer skills, data entry and Microsoft Office, including advanced skills in Microsoft Excel are required.
  • Experience with Salesforce or similar CRM/donor tracking.
  • Experience with Once Cause or similar event fundraising software.
  • Ability to establish and maintain tracking systems.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.

Compensation/Benefits

$20-$22.49/hour depending on experience with appropriate state and federal taxes withheld. This position is a nonexempt and full-time. Full benefits package includes dental, vision, health, and vacation as part of employment.  Heal the Bay covers 90% of the benefit package.

Schedule 

Full-time, 40 hours per week.  Must be available for some weekends, evenings. Heal the Bay works on a hybrid schedule of 2-3 days in the Santa Monica office.  Heal the Bay offers a dynamic work environment with highly motivated staff and volunteers.

How To Apply  

Application Deadline: 2/20/23 Position start day ASAP

Please submit cover letter and/or brief introduction and resume/CV or list of qualifications online HERE.


Heal the Bay is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County. 

Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the hiring process. Once a conditional job offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking. 

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Heal the Bay is looking for a Human Resources & Payroll Specialist to work closely with the Finance, Data and Admin departments to ensure smooth operational processes for the 50 staff at both the main office and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Read More »

About the Organization

Heal the Bay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1985.  They use science, education, community action, and advocacy to fulfill their mission to protect coastal waters and watersheds in Southern California with a particular focus on public health, climate change, biodiversity, and environmental justice.  Heal the Bay Aquarium, located at the Santa Monica Pier, welcomes 100,000 guests annually and hosts a variety of public programs and events that highlight local environmental issues and solutions.  Learn more at www.healthebay.org and follow @healthebay on social media.

Position Description

The Human Resources & Payroll Specialist reports to contracted fractional COO. Works closely with the Finance, Data and Admin departments to ensure smooth operational processes for the 50 staff at both the main office and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium.

HR Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Working with our HR Management System (ADP/Workforce Now), maintain and update employee records, including personal information, performance reviews, improvement plans and disciplinary actions.
  • Taking appropriate disciplinary action against employees who violate rules and regulations and addressing employee grievances
  • Conduct onboarding for new employees, including new hire paperwork, orientation, and training.
  • Conduct exit interviews, ensure closure and handoff of tasks.
  • Work with hiring managers to develop job descriptions, post job vacancies, review resumes, conduct screening interviews, and facilitate the hiring process.
  • Implement professional development and employee retention programs
  • Manage live scan background check system.
  • Manage access and prompt completion of mandatory compliance trainings and ensures equitable access to professional development opportunities to enhance employee skills and knowledge.
  • Support employees as they navigate organizational processes, and procedures, including professional development, trainings, family leave, workers comp, complaints, etc.

Operations Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage Data team (1.5 staff).
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, including: reporting requirements, record-keeping, and compliance with labor standards.
  • Work with AQ Director to coordinate the Safety Committee. Ensure the IIPP is updated annually and trainings occur on schedule.
  • Oversee grant fund matrix ensuring continuity between, accounting software, QuickBooks, expense software, and grant managers. Work with grant managers to ensure grants are being billed down in timely manner.
  • Manage employee access to all organizational resources, such as: expense tracking software, benefits programs (health, retirement plans, legal shield, and employee assistance programs.)
  • Ensure employee’s timecards are submitted and approved in a timely manner.
  • Generate reports on employee data, payroll, and other HR-related metrics as needed.
  • Oversee annual insurance and benefits renewal
  • Manage Data/Salesforce team   (1.5 employees)
  • Manage IT consultant contract
  • Manage software as service contracts, including: Salesforce (CRM), Cytracom phone system
  • Coordinate subcontractor contracts
  • Work with Executive Assistant to set and maintain annual calendar including holidays, staff enrichments, budget preparation
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management, including special projects and initiatives related to HR, payroll, or other areas of the organizational administration.

Preferred Experience & Skills

  • Minimum 3-5 years’ experience working with payroll and associated HR technologies (ADP/Workforce Now strongly desired)
  • Tech-savvy. Strong knowledge of MS office applications. The ability to grasp basic software concepts quickly is essential. Mastery of programs is a plus.
  • General familiarity with human resources – either in your education or work background. Knowing the basics of Human Resources is a plus; however, advanced knowledge is not necessary as you will have access to outside HR experts.
  • Superior communication skills – verbally and in writing. 
  • Experience in conflict resolution is a +
  • Experience with Salesforce or similar CRM is ++

Competencies

  • Diversity – Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; educates others on the value of diversity; promotes a harassment-free environment; Builds a diverse workforce.
  • Ethics – Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
  • Analytical – Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures.
  • Problem Solving – Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
  • Quality – Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
  • Technical Skills – Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

If you don’t meet all of the preferred skills above, you are still encouraged to apply and will be considered based on diverse and equivalent skills and experience.

Compensation

Annual compensation range is $58,000 to $62,000 per year. A full suite of benefits is available, including medical, dental, paid vacation & retirement plan with employer match. We do not pay for relocation.

Benefits

Dental, medical, health insurance, and vacation benefits are included as part of employment. Heal the Bay will cover 90% of benefits. In accordance with California Labor Law, employee will be eligible to receive up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year, after completing 90 days of employment. All Heal the Bay recognized Holidays will be compensated in accordance to time worked.

Schedule

This is a hybrid position, with the employee expected to be in the office (in Santa Monica) 3 days per week.

To Apply

Click here to SUBMIT your cover letter and resume.

Review of applications will be on a rolling basis with position to be filled as soon as possible.

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIORNMENT:

  • Continually required to utilize hand and finger dexterity
  • Continually required to talk or hear

Heal the Bay is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County.

Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the hiring process. Once a conditional job offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking.

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Heal the Bay is looking for an Associate Specialist to manage the Heal the Bay Beach Report Card, NowCast, and River Report Card programs. This specialist will be responsible for tracking, analyzing, commenting on, and advocating for water quality protection and improvements related to recreational waterbodies, at the state and local levels, focused on bacterial pollution, sewage spill protocols and notifications, and riparian habitat. Read More »

About the Organization

Heal the Bay is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to making the coastal waters and watersheds of Greater Los Angeles safe, healthy and clean. We use science, education, community action, and advocacy to fulfill our mission. We educate people about the undersea wonders of our local Santa Monica Bay, the causes and impacts of local water pollution, the need for an improved resilient water supply, and what everyone can do to make a difference. We reach over 150,000 people every year through our Heal the Bay Aquarium, beach cleanups and community outreach programs.

Clean beaches and rivers are critical for public health and our economy in southern California. For over 25 years, Heal the Bay has been a powerful advocate for cleaning up polluted rivers and beaches and maintaining high standards that protect public health for recreational users of our local waters. Heal the Bay’s Beach Report Card (BRC) and NowCast systems are well-known and scientifically robust tools for communicating water quality problems to decision-makers and the public, and our new River Report Card (RRC) will serve a similar purpose for the LA River and other freshwater recreation sites.

California’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. Heal the Bay is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment that respects all individuals regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical ability, religion, or age. We are focused on recruiting and retaining a diverse team of employees, fostering a positive environment where inclusive behaviors are the norm, prioritizing our work through an equity and inclusivity lens, and embedding accountability for diversity throughout the organization. We are committed to creating an environment where all employees are included, are treated with dignity and respect, and are in a position to contribute to our success.

Position Description

The main goal of this position is to equip the public with the information they need to protect themselves from harmful pollution. The Associate Specialist is responsible for day-to-day management of Heal the Bay’s Beach Report Card, NowCast, and River Report Card programs. The Beach Report Card (BRC) provides beachgoers with a weekly A-F letter grade at nearly 700 West Coast beaches. The River Report Card (RRC) provides visitors to approximately 30 freshwater swimming holes throughout L.A. County with a weekly color-coded grade. The NowCast system uses a set of statistical models calibrated on years of environmental and bacteria data to provide daily water quality predictions for over 20 California ocean beaches. The Specialist obtains and analyzes bacteria data, updates the Beach Report Card and River Report Card grades weekly, and helps produce the annual reports for each program. Additionally, this position will support any maintenance and expansion of the website and mobile app that broadcasts BRC & RRC grades and NowCast predictions as necessary.

 This position provides support for field and laboratory work for summer River Report Card sampling and mentorship of students.

 The Associate Specialist is also responsible for tracking, analyzing, commenting on, and advocating for water quality protection and improvements related to recreational waterbodies, at the state and local levels, focused on bacterial pollution, sewage spill protocols and notifications, and riparian habitat. The Associate Specialist represents Heal the Bay’s positions at public meetings, hearings and other forums and participates in recreational water quality stakeholder groups and coalitions. The Associate Specialist develops and maintain relationships with beach managers, agencies, government staff, advocacy groups, scientific researchers and other environmental stakeholders.

 In addition, the Associate Specialist will participate in Heal the Bay campaigns, and education & outreach work. The Associate Specialist position will report to Heal the Bay’s Data Specialist in the Science, Policy & Outreach Department.

Essential Job Functions include:

  • Manage the day-to-day aspects of the Beach Report Card (BRC), NowCast, and River Report Card programs;
    • Understand historical and technical aspects of all programs including sampling methodology, field and lab work, modeling;
    • Update QAPP and implement QA/QC procedures;
    • Collect data and manage databases necessary to calculate weekly BRC & RRC grades and calibrate and run NowCast models;
    • Calculate weekly BRC & RRC grades;
    • Provide technical and writing expertise for Beach Report Card, freshwater monitoring reports, and other technical reports; lead writing of annual BRC and RRC reports;
  • Manage Beach Report Card web and mobile app platform and River Report Card website;
    • Publish regular BRC grades on the BRC platform and RRC grades on Heal the Bay’s River Report Card website;
    • Monitor beach closures, sewage spills, rain advisories, and other alerts at beaches/rivers around California, and update alerts on the website;
    • Monitor website and mobile app for correct display of data and bugs;
    • Aid in transitioning the BRC and NowCast programs to a new web-based data platform;
    • Assist with implementing a new methodology for RRC and BRC grades.
  • Assist with summer Stream Team/River Report Card Program;
    • Help hire, train and mentor summer student water quality monitors;
    • Help set Stream Team work schedules and ensure shift coverage;
    • Conduct occasional field and laboratory work to assess bacteria levels in freshwater areas during summer months as needed;
  • Lead on policy and advocacy work for recreational water quality
    • Track, analyze, comment on, and advocate for water quality protection and improvements related to recreational waterbodies, focused on bacterial pollution, sewage spill protocols and notifications, and riparian habitat;
    • Represent Heal the Bay’s positions at public meetings, hearings and other forums; participate in water quality workgroups, TACs, watershed and river coalitions, including LA River;
    • Track polluted west coast recreational waters on ongoing basis and work with staff scientist(s) and stakeholders to advocate for improvements in site specific water quality issues;
    • Maintain, cultivate and establish relationships with recreational water quality monitoring agencies in Washington, Oregon, and California;
    • Create and maintain relationships with government staff, advocacy groups, scientific researchers and other environmental stakeholders;
    • Engage in AB 1066 (Bloom, 2021) implementation by making recommendations to the California Water Quality Monitoring Council for a definition of a priority freshwater recreation area and elements of a statewide monitoring program; work towards new legislation to require that inland recreational waters are regularly monitored;
  • Work closely with other Heal the Bay staff on inter-departmental projects and programs;
  • Participate in Science and Policy department meetings;
  • Coordinate with communications team for BRC/RRC/NowCast public outreach and media requests.

Preferred Experience/Skills

  • Passion for Heal the Bay’s mission and environmental and public health in southern California;
  • Bachelor’s degree or above in Environmental Science, Biology, Public Policy, or a related discipline;
  • Background in water quality and coastal policy; understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and policies; knowledge of policy-making processes; and experience with local issues relating to coastal and marine environments;
  • Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills, with public speaking experience;
  • Strong writing skills, with policy analysis or advocacy writing experience preferred;
  • Excellent organizational, analytical and project planning skills;
  • Strong problem solving skills;
  • Ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of a team;
  • Proven ability to work under pressure, multitask and meet deadlines;
  • Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Excel and Power Point), with CRM Salesforce experience a plus;
  • Coding experience with Python, R, or similar languages a plus;
  • Ability to travel throughout the Los Angeles area with occasional trips to Sacramento or other locations throughout the state;
  • Some evening and weekend work is required
  • Must have access to reliable transportation

If you don’t meet all of the preferred skills above, you are still encouraged to apply and will be considered based on diverse and equivalent skills and experience.

Compensation

This is a full-time, non-exempt position starting at $23.00/hour depending on experience, with appropriate state and federal taxes withheld.

Benefits

Dental, medical, health insurance, and vacation benefits are included as part of employment. Heal the Bay will cover 90% of benefits. In accordance with California Labor Law, employee will be eligible to receive up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year, after completing 90 days of employment. All Heal the Bay recognized Holidays will be compensated in accordance to time worked.

Schedule

Full-time, 40 hours per week. Participation in some weekend and evening events, as well as regional and statewide travel, may be necessary. We are currently working on a hybrid schedule with some remote and some in-person requirements. Heal the Bay offers a dynamic work environment with highly motivated colleagues including other staff and volunteers.

To Apply

Click here to SUBMIT your cover letter and resume.

Review of applications will be on a rolling basis with position to be filled as soon as possible.

Additional information:

Beach Report Card website: https://beachreportcard.org/

River Report Card Website: https://healthebay.org/riverreportcard/

2022 Annual Reports: https://healthebay.org/beachreportcard2022/


Heal the Bay is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County.

Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the hiring process. Once a conditional job offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking.

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Internships

Heal the Bay’s Science, Policy, and Outreach Department is recruiting for a highly self-motivated MPA Watch intern with an interest in marine protected areas (MPAs), coastal conservation, and fieldwork for the 2023 Fall Session. Read More »

About the Organization

Heal the Bay is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1985. We use science, education, community action, and advocacy to fulfill our mission to protect coastal waters and watersheds in Southern California with a particular focus on public health, climate change, biodiversity, and environmental justice.

Internship Overview

Heal the Bay’s Science, Policy, and Outreach Department is recruiting for a highly self-motivated MPA Watch intern with an interest in marine protected areas (MPAs), coastal conservation, and fieldwork for the 2023 Fall Session (September – November). The intern will report to our Coastal and Marine Scientist, and work both in the field at MPA sites and virtually for approximately 10-20 hours each week with flexible scheduling and an option for periodic in-office meetings. The intern is expected to start the week of September 5th, as well as provide their own transportation to and from MPA field sites in Malibu and Palos Verdes. Interns are trained to observe and collect unbiased data on coastal and marine resource use.

This is an excellent opportunity to gain science fieldwork experience and to work for a reputable non-profit that has been established on the Westside for over 35 years. Heal the Bay’s community science program, MPA Watch, is part of a statewide network and collects valuable scientific data to inform various government and other organizations about human use at MPA sites and inform MPA management.

There are required physical expectations that an individual must possess in order to successfully perform essential internship responsibilities, including:

  • Ability to spend 4-5 hours outside and willingness to do so under harsh weather conditions, if necessary.
  • Ability to complete moderate hiking and willingness to do so under harsh weather conditions, if necessary.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50lbs.
  • Ability to push and pull up to 50lbs.

This is an unpaid internship, but please contact your college or university about qualifying for college credit or scholarship opportunities. Please note that this is a hybrid internship, combining work in the field, in our main Heal the Bay office, and remote. Interns must have reliable access to a computer and internet to complete remote work.

Primary Responsibilities: 

  • Complete MPA Watch beach surveys of human activities inside and outside protected areas for MPA Watch program.
  • Assist in organization and management of the MPA Watch database.
    Conduct quality assurance and quality control on MPA Watch surveys in the database.
  • Assist with the development of MPA Watch program and training materials such as manuals and PowerPoint presentations.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of MPA Watch volunteer trainings.
  • Assist in MPA Watch volunteer events and coordination.
  • Attend virtual weekly MPA Watch team meetings.
  • Maintain a professional and enthusiastic attitude when representing Heal the Bay in public settings, meeting, events, and trainings.
  • Develop an independent research project on MPA Watch data, MPA policy and legislation, or another related topic and present results at the end of the internship.

Qualifications:

  • Recently graduated or currently enrolled in higher education program at a college or university in a degree program of Environmental Studies, Marine Science, Oceanography, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Policy or related field. Equivalent experience also accepted.  
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.  
  • Detail-oriented; ability to complete projects promptly and completely.  
  • Ability to work independently as well as with a team.  
  • Preferred: experience in conducting data collection and/or research and proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.  

Compensation: Unpaid. School credit is available at participating schools/colleges.

How to Apply: Applicants must send a resume and cover letter to Emily Parker, Coastal and Marine Scientist, Friday, August 25, 2023 for application to be considered. Please use the phrase “MPA Watch Fall 2023 Internship” in the email subject line.


Heal the Bay is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County.

 Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the onboarding process. Once a conditional internship offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking.

 Heal the Bay requires all interns to obtain and maintain up-to-date COVID-19 vaccinations, when available. Heal the Bay believes this is an important measure to protect the health and safety of employees, volunteers, family members and those who visit the workplace from COVID-19 infection. Interns must show proof of vaccination (vaccination card or website).

Apply For This Internship