https://www.oceanrescuealliance.org/careers
Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI) (https://www.oceanrescuealliance.org/) seeks an economics/social scientist or economist/social science graduate student for a year long internship (with the option to extend) within a team to conduct research, modeling, and social impact assessments for artificial reefs deployed off the coast of Hollywood, Florida, in May 2025. The selected individual will gain invaluable, real-world experience evaluating the social and economic value of artificial reefs, focusing on tourism, coastal community impact, and local economic development. This is an unpaid internship, although funding is possible depending on organizational outcomes and additional compensation potential through grant writing. The internship may be used to fulfill course requirements, and opportunities for academic publication are available.
The ideal candidate will have a background in environmental economics and social sciences (e.g., sociology, human geography), experience with non-market valuations, survey design and data analysis, and an interest in the intersection of environmental science and community development. The main
project will involve literature reviews, field surveys, data analysis of tourism trends and public behavior, and modeling of the economic and social impacts of artificial reefs. Additionally, relevant project topics and
opportunities for involvement in outreach, reef monitoring, and stakeholder engagement are possible and may arise depending on the intern’s interests. Additional agreements would be needed for these options. Please include a cover letter and cv/resume with application material. Note, this is not a reef monitoring
position, but focused on environmental economics.
Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree in social science, environmental economics, human geography, or a related field (alternative experience, education, and training may be considered in lieu of degree).
· Pursuing or recently completed a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field is preferred.
· Experience with survey design and economic research methods. Focus on non-market evaluations and value assessments (if this is lacking, having an internal mentor to help may suffice).
· Experience with marine science and tourism is preferred but not required.
· Knowledge of relevant studies and methodologies similar to those sought for this project.
· Strong skills in statistical analysis and relevant software.
· Knowledge of social impact assessment, community engagement, or coastal tourism research is a plus.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills.
· Passion for the environment and interest in understanding the societal benefits of marine conservation efforts.
· Publication record in peer-reviewed journals s preferred but not required.
Primary Responsibilities:
· Conduct background research on economic non-market valuation and social impact assessments related to artificial reefs.
· Develop and/or administer surveys for local residents, tourists, hotels, and/or other stakeholders based on intern’s experience and discretion upon reviewing plan with ORAI team.
· If needed, analyze publicly available data (e.g., tourism statistics, parking usage, local business data) to model the economic and social impacts of artificial reefs on the local community.
· If needed, develop location specific economic model for this project.
· Document and analyze the relationship between artificial reefs and changes in tourism, community engagement, and local economic activity.
· Rigorously document and report all findings.
· Prepare and submit research findings for publication in relevant academic peer-reviewed journals.
· Collaborate with team members to develop related research projects or additional community engagement strategies depending on time and intern’s interests.
How to Apply and Additional Information:
Please submit your resume or CV, cover letter, and any relevant work samples (e.g., research papers, survey analysis) to https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=61a336b7cb7fce71&from=shareddesktop_copy or email directly to the addresses below. In your cover letter, please explain your interest in the intersection of economics and/or social science and marine conservation, and highlight your experience related to the position description. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, contact info@oceanrescuealliance.org or d.weinstein@oceanrescuealliance.org.
About Ocean Rescue Alliance (ORAI):
ORAI is a marine conservation and restoration non-profit organization (NPO) based in Florida that implements innovative techniques to restore our marine environments. ORAI’s work involves the creation of artificial reefs designed to incorporate art, innovative designs, and safe materials to enhance marine habitats, protect coastlines and provide a unique diving location. Our research investigates artificial design improvements, coastal protection with wave reduction modules, coral restoration, oyster restoration, mangrove restoration, seawall enchantments, fish population dynamics & recruitment to contribute to effective restoration. Our artistically crafted reefs enable every individual the opportunity to create an eternal reef for their loved one or company. Art themed reefs or additions connect local community history and culture and broaden client audience while creating a lasting memory on the ocean floor that will help restore our marine ecosystems. Our education and citizen science (Coral Rangers) programs seek to empower and inspire our future generations and engage local communities. Ultimately, our goal is to spread awareness and create marine habitats that will last for generations to come.
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