Internship - Biodiversity & Endangered species with the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service

Position Summary

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Michigan Ecological Services Field Office (MIFO) is located in East Lansing, MI. The SCA member will assist biologists with endangered species conservation efforts and will gain experience with various aspects of implementing the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Work will include assisting others in identify best management practices to reduce potential impacts to listed species and further listed species recovery; assisting in imperiled species research projects or habitat improvement projects; and assisting with imperiled wildlife and plant survey efforts (e.g., imperiled butterflies and other pollinators, piping plover, mussel surveys etc.). This position will require coordination with multiple partners (federal and state agencies, NGOs, consultants, conservation organizations). The position will include some field work (about 20% of time) depending on interest of the person selected, and office work (about 80% of the time).

Schedule

November 12, 2024 - November 7, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Performs data analysis and prepares objective and complete written reports and other technical documents and make recommendations; Maintains records of accomplishments and provides accomplishment reports as required by supervisors; Obtain, review, and evaluate reports, data, scientific literature, and other sources of information.

Marginal Duties

Participate in imperiled species habitat improvement projects or surveys; Interact with conservation partners on their imperiled wildlife and plant survey efforts (e.g., imperiled butterflies and other pollinators, piping plover, mussel surveys etc.). Serve with conservation partners on endangered species habitat improvement projects (e.g., controlling invasive plants, improving nesting habitat for piping plovers, collecting native plant seeds, etc.). Laboratory/office/station duties Percentage of time: 20% Laboratory work may include processing samples from field work and working with various laboratory equipment. Office responsibilities include administrative duties, data entry and management, basic reporting. Station duties may include equipment maintenance and assistance with activities associated with the office complex. Miscellaneous Percentage of time: 20% Responds to written, telephone, and in-person inquiries. Assists MIFO staff with duties, as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Valid driver's license. Some experience with writing reports, data analysis, GIS, field research.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in a professional 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 aged 35 or younger, at the start of the position. 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.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing is not provided. Housing is the responsibility of the intern.

Compensation

$650/week living allowance

$1,100 to/from travel allowance, paid once with first paycheck

Health Insurance

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Personal vehicle 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.