Are you interested in working in the natural environment? You could work outdoors, learning about nature and the role the US Fish and Wildlife Service plays in conserving and protecting a few natural spots just south of the nation’s capital. Gain valuable experience in all positions that help maintain a wildlife refuge by becoming a Refuge Operations Intern. Cover projects related to public visitation, biological surveys, and refuge upkeep over 3,242 acres of wetlands and forest, surrounded by a highly populated urban area. You will work closely with refuge biological, visitor services, and management staff members while performing day-to-day duties on a National Wildlife Refuge. The duties will include supporting the wildlife biologist with several surveys, public deer hunt program, invasive plant mapping, and associated data entry. You will also assist the visitor services specialist with public programs, environmental education, outreach, media, and special events. Activities will also involve trail and facility maintenance aimed to increase visitor access and improve the visitor experience. This internship will provide you with leadership and field skills for future job opportunities.
Our office is made up of 5 full time staff members with a few seasonal interns. Weekly schedule consists of 5 work days totaling at 40 hours per week, depending on events you may be required to work Saturdays or Sundays. Projects will take place both indoors and out, Applicant must be comfortable hiking through various types of terrain, and weather conditions. Refuges can be cold, and windy during the winter months and hot, humid, and buggy during the summer. We are looking for applicants who work well both independently, and as a good team player. Applicant should be comfortable interacting with the public in a professional manner. Having a car is a necessity.
Compensation
- One-time travel allowance: $1,100 (personal vehicle required)
- Weekly living allowance: $300 / week
- Housing provided on site
- Health Insurance
- Eligible for an AmeriCorps education award upon successful completion of position valued at $4,546.50
It is SCA’s policy that all AmeriCorps-required background checks must return cleared results prior to the position’s start; this includes being fingerprinted for the FBI check. Otherwise, the AmeriCorps award will be removed or the position’s start date will be delayed due to non-compliance.
*For SCA's COVID-19 guidance, please refer to www.thesca.org/covid
Position ID: PO-00733498
Expected Dates: March 13, 2023 - December 15, 2023
Location:
Occoquan Bay NWR 14050 Dawson Beach Road
Woodbridge, VA 22192
US
Training Provided: The member will receive on-the-job training related to public recreation with a concentration on conservation-focused activities. The member will be included in team activities and will be encouraged to participate in all facets of refuge operations.
Educational/Recreational Opportunities: The member will have opportunities to learn while on the job. For example, the member will hike in the woods while exploring for good locations to set up bat detectors. The member will be encouraged to participate and experience what refuge professional
Handicap Accessible?: Yes
Main Area of Focus: Natural Resources Mgmt
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Required
There will be a need to get to and from work and a need to get between duty stations. A vehicle is not provided at all times
Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member
A one-story bunkhouse has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, washing/drying machines, kitchen, and common room.
Indoor/Outdoor: Combination
US Citizenship: Yes