Rare Species Wildlife Survey Participant

Position Summary

The SCA participant will work with other members of the wildlife program on the Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger District of the Huron-Manistee National Forests to complete various surveys and habitat improvement projects. As a member of the wildlife program team, the participant will: 1) conduct inventory surveys and habitat assessments for a variety of imperiled, threatened, and sensitive wildlife species; 2) conduct vegetative surveys to assess the effectiveness of different management treatments; 3) conduct surveys to determine the status of the federally at-risk Karner blue butterfly within designated management areas; 4) enter data into databases; 5) assist with analyzing data collected to refine management plans and develop conservation measures; and 6) layout and implement habitat improvement projects to restore savannas, upland openings, and young forests. The participant also will assist with recreation and timber program activities and participate in education/outreach activities as needed.

Location: Huron-Manistee National Forest - Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger District. Baldwin, MI.

May 12, 2025 - August 1, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The majority of the field season will involve: 1) conducting inventory surveys and habitat assessments for a variety of imperiled, threatened, and sensitive wildlife species; 2) conducting vegetative surveys to assess the effectiveness of different management treatments; and 3) conducting surveys to determine the status of the federally at-risk Karner blue butterfly within designated management areas. Participants will be responsible for becoming proficient at survey protocols and data collection methods, completing detailed field reports, and accurately entering data into databases.

Marginal Duties

Portions of the field season will involve: 1) analyzing the data collected to refine management plans and develop conservation measures; 2) laying out and implementing habitat improvement projects to restore savannas, upland openings, and young forests; 3) assisting with recreation and timber program activities; and 4) participating in education/outreach activities. Participants also will have the option to work with young adults from underserved communities to complete habitat improvement projects.

Required Qualifications

Required qualifications include: 1) experience with plant and animal identification; 2) driver's license; and 3) ability to perform arduous work in a field setting.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include: 1) experience conducting plant and animal surveys; 2) experience operating a vehicle in a field setting; 3) ability to navigate using GPS, compass, and map; 4) experience collecting survey data; and 5) experience entering survey data into databases.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing onsite includes furnished dining room, living room, kitchen, and bedroom, bathroom with shower, and washer and dryer. Bedroom and bathroom are shared with roommate.

Compensation

Living allowance of $450/week; travel allowance of $1,100, paid once with first paycheck; housing provided onsite.

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits

Defensive Drive Training

First Aid/CPR

AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional

Equal Opportunity Statement

SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. SCA is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

Physical requirements and working conditions specific to the position are available in the full job description.