Biological Technician Intern (PO-00731489)

The SCA Biological Technician intern will work out of the Kofa NWR/SWAZRC office located in Yuma, Arizona. He/she will assist with wildlife management and monitoring projects on Kofa NWR. Periodically, the intern may assist with activities or projects on Imperial and Cibola NWRs. Specific tasks will include checking the status of water sources, running trail cameras in remote wilderness locations and processing photos to collect data relevant to managing the refuge for the benefit of desert bighorn sheep and other native wildlife. Duties will also include assisting with monitoring, maintenance and feeding of the endangered Sonoran pronghorn within and outside of a semi-captive breeding pen. There will be many opportunities to interact with refuge staff and partner agency personnel on a wide variety of projects.

Very strong hiking and orientations skills are essential, as is being able to do field work in remote areas and in extreme summer heat. Operating a 4×4 vehicle on sometimes extremely rough and rocky roads is necessary.

The Biological Technician intern will also help with the Visitor Services Program, and with general refuge operations. He/she will greet visitors and answer phone calls at the Visitor Center and respond to questions, needs and complaints; help maintain the refuge website, Facebook page and brochures. Duties will include participating in public outreach at community events and developing and presenting programs to school classes and other groups and leading interpretive hikes. They will also help manage and coordinate Refuge Volunteer activities and work schedules.

Compensation amounts:

  • $1,100 – RT travel allowance
  • $160 – weekly living allowance
  • $1,200 – duty related travel
  • AmeriCorps eligible ($6,095 education award and health insurance)
  • Housing

*All allowances subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes

Position ID: PO-00731489

Expected Dates: May 9, 2022 - August 28, 2022

Location:
9300 E 28th Street
Yuma, AZ 85365
US

Training Provided: Training opportunities include wildlife and natural resources management methods, interpretation and first aid/CPR. Additional training opportunities may arise.

Educational/Recreational Opportunities: In addition to training necessary to accomplish wildlife and natural resource management activities, participate in community events; and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking; biking; boating; etc. is available in and near the community.

Handicap Accessible?: Yes

Main Area of Focus: Natural Resources Mgmt

Further Details

AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible

Driving Logistics: Required

Personal use of government vehicles is not allowed. A personal vehicle is needed to shop for groceries and reach other amenities as distances within town significant and public transportation is not available.

Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member

The US Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) SW Arizona Refuge Complex/Kofa National Wildlife Headquarters will provide the SCA Intern with a private ~25 foot trailer located in an RV Park near the headquarters (within walking or biking distance). The trailer comes equipped with a basic kitchen inventory including pots and pans, dishes, silverware and bedding. All utilities will be provided/paid for by the Fish and Wildlife Service.

Indoor/Outdoor: Combination

US Citizenship: No

Student Conservation Association