Fishing Line Recycling Program Intern at Point Blue Conservation Science
Location: Lompoc, CA
Start Date: 15 November 2026- 30 May 2027
Deadline to Apply: Open until filled
Position Type: Part Time Coastal Program Intern

Compensation and Benefits:
$19.70 per hour. This is a non-exempt, hourly position. Benefits are limited to up to 40 hours of paid sick leave, that accrue incrementally every bi-weekly pay period, and a paid cell phone stipend in the amount of $18.50 per bi-weekly paycheck. Housing is not provided. Must have access to the internet and ability to join online meetings.
Some driving may occur but is not a requirement of the position. If driving occurs, work vehicles are available, but use of a personal vehicle may be necessary. Any use of personal vehicles for work related travel will be reimbursed at the current federal mileage rate.

Position Description:
Point Blue Conservation Science is a growing and internationally renowned non-profit with over 160 staff and scientists based in Petaluma, California. Founded in 1965 as Point Reyes Bird Observatory, our mission and programs have evolved over time to include a broad range of conservation activity, from restoration to environmental education to innovative work in the field of regenerative agriculture.  We have a proven track record of scientific excellence.

We are committed to removing barriers based on racial, gender, cultural, and other factors and believe that equal representation is essential to the success of Point Blue’s mission and vision. We seek and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds to join our teams.

Point Blue is partnering with the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (CHNMS), California State Parks (CSP) and the California Coastal Commission (CCC) to expand the Boating Clean and Green Program (BC&GP) throughout the CHNMS and beyond. The BC&GP established a California Fishing Line Recycling Program in 2011 that has installed 550 fishing line recycling stations at marinas, fishing piers, lakes, reservoirs, and parks throughout the state. As of February 2026, 4,093 pounds of fishing line have been collected and recycled. The current bins in operation are doing very well and interest in new bins is spreading.

The intern will help the BC&GP scale up and expand participation within the CHNMS and across the state through the following tasks:

• Contact managers of ports, marinas, and other fishing locations to encourage their participation in the fishing line recycling program
• Provide contact information of new partners to the fishing line bin vendor so that new recycling bins can be mailed out
• Aid in developing and conducting online feedback surveys of partners to gain insight on the new stations and the stickers and track previously installed stations
• Participate in marine bird and mammal surveys along CHNMS coastline
• Aid in developing outreach material to educate the public about wildlife entanglement in discarded fishing gear
• Update education materials for the BC&GP
• Create social media posts for the BC&GP

Qualifications:
This position requires the following qualifications:

• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with potential partners, including following up to ensure that recycling bins have been distributed and installed
• Ability to organize and maintain an active list of program participants
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and Powerpoint
• Familiarity with social media applications like Facebook and Instagram

Other Desired Qualifications:

• Enrollment in a college or university degree program with emphasis on marine biology, ecology, environmental science or similar field
• Possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license, preferably a Real ID or the ability to obtain one. Point Blue will conduct a motor vehicle report for insurance purposes after hiring
• Fluent writing and speaking in Spanish a plus  

Work Environment & Physical Requirements 

• This position is primarily an office position, though some field work may be required. Field work will involve driving to a coastal location like a marina or pier and light to moderate walking/hiking, typically less than one mile. Office work can be done at home if the intern has a reliable phone, a reliable computer and access to the internet. Alternatively, phone, computer and internet access are available for use at Point Blue’s office in Lompoc, CA. The preferred scenario is a hybrid situation where the intern splits their time between home and Point Blue’s office in Lompoc. 

If you have difficulty with the application, please contact hr@pointblue.org 

Point Blue is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, disability status of an otherwise qualified individual, membership or application for membership in an uniformed service, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law and will make reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities to complete the application and/or participate in the interview process.