Internship - Huron Wetland Management District Biological Science Technician
Position Summary
The Western South Dakota Complex is seeking 2 interns to assist with habitat monitoring and management on Waterfowl Productions Areas (WPAs) in South Dakota. This position is stationed out of Huron Wetland Management District in Wolsey, South Dakota. The interns will work closely with USFWS biologists and managers evaluating habitat and performing vegetation surveys. Specific activities include vegetation surveys, wildlife surveys (waterfowl and pollinators), invasive species mapping, seed collection, iPad data collections, signage work, ATV/UTV operation, pickup trailer operating, and other duties as assigned. There may be opportunities for easement surveys (including aerial surveying), bird banding, and prescribed fire activities depending on station needs and individual's credentials. Job duties change as the season change. Springtime finds us doing waterfowl surveys and invasive species mapping. As summer approaches, we transition into vegetation surveys and surveying for bumble bees and butterflies through our Patch-Burn-Graze project. We will also assist the SD Ecological Services office with various field activities as needed. As fall approaches, we will shift to seed harvest and processing. Maintenance and miscellaneous duties occur as needed throughout the year.
Schedule
May 5, 2025 - August 22, 2025
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Habitat Monitoring Percentage of time: 60% Assists with biological field investigations, related to habitat management activities (grazing and fire). Habitat is monitored using 3 types of vegetation protocols. The intern will be trained in all 3 methods and will utilize the surveys as directed. The intern will be trained on tall grass and mixed grass prairie plants and various weed species. For the Patch-Burn-Graze project, the intern will be trained on bumble bee and butterfly identification and surveying, as well as 4 additional vegetation surveys specific to the project. Most field sampling will be conducted during a typical 5-day work week. The intern should be in good physical condition, with the ability to lift objects, and withstand potentially harsh environmental conditions including high heat and stinging and biting insects. Duties also include preparation of gear prior to and maintenance of gear upon conclusion of field activities.
Marginal Duties
Percentage of time: 30% Intern will assist maintenance staff with noxious weed control, building and vehicle maintenance, seed harvest and processing, and posting or replacing signs on WPAs. Miscellaneous Percentage of time: 10% Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Driver's license
- Personal vehicle required
- Minimum age requirement is 18
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.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
- Housing provided (onsite)
- The bunkhouse consists of 3 bedrooms and a large bathroom with a living room and a kitchen and is within walking distance of the maintenance buildings and 1 mile from the office.
Compensation
- $450/week Living Allowance
- $1,100 To/From Travel Allowance, paid once with first paycheck
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Required
Additional Benefits
Defensive Drive Training
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.