Avian Monitoring Internship @ Rachel Carson NWR (Maine)

Avian Monitoring Internship:

12 weeks (~May 9–July 29, 2022)

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge provides an opportunity to build your biological monitoring and management skills by working with a team of skilled field biologists. Interns are an essential part of our operations, and if selected, you will become a dynamic member of our skilled and motivated team. Deadline to apply: 11 February 2022

One full time intern is needed to support avian monitoring projects (piping plover, least tern, and saltmarsh sparrow), on Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Maine. This position requires a strong interest in bird conservation, the ability to ability to locate and monitor cryptic shorebirds their young, as well as identify avian and mammalian predators by tracks and sign. Prior experience bird banding (mist net extraction, banding), and nest searching are not required, but are advantageous.

Primary responsibilities (70% of duties) include but are not limited to: censusing a variety of beach nesting birds, monitoring productivity from egg laying to fledging, erecting predator exclosures, posting and maintaining symbolic fencing, re-sighting and recording band codes, assisting with tidal marsh bird monitoring, and data entry. Additional responsibilities (30% of duties) include but are not limited to: providing public outreach and education, habitat restoration and management, and general refuge maintenance /operations.

Intern will be working flexible hours (sunrise/sunset) and some weekends and holidays. Interns must be able to work in varied climatic conditions (harsh sunlight to rain, firm to unstable footing (sand, salt marsh; shallow to hip- deep water), exposure to high temperatures/humidity, biting insects), carry moderate loads (30-50 lbs) over long distances and use hand tools to dig/ pull vegetation. Intern must possess valid driver’s license, have good communication and organizational skills, ability to work well with others and independently with minimal supervision, and be an enthusiastic field worker.

General requirements:

• U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
• Valid state driver's license.
• Must be able to work independently; must have good observational skills and communication skills.
• Schedule flexibility, including weekend, holidays, and morning/ evening shifts
• Willingness to follow federal COVID-19 policies and guidance

Benefits:

• $250 weekly living stipend
• Free co-ed bunkhouse style lodging on Rachel Carson NWR (as COVID-19 regulations allow). Modern furnished facilities with laundry and Wi-Fi may be available
• Professional development, training, and networking opportunities.
• Work vehicle and equipment provided

How to Apply:

Email one application package(s) as a single .PDF file to BRI BENVENUTI (Bri_Benvenuti@fws.gov) by 11 February 2022 that includes:

1.    Cover letter that addresses the listed qualifications for the position of interest

2.    Resume documenting your work experience, education, skills, interests, contact information, etc.

3.    Contact information for three professional references (must include email and phone number for each reference).

4.    Unofficial copy of current college transcript.

To be clear which internship(s) you are applying for. Applications must be named with internship type and first/last name

RCNWR_avian_LastFirst

• To be considered, application packet must have all four items combined into a SINGLE PDF file and follow the naming convention above
• If applying to multiple positions, you must submit each as its own application package (properly named .PDF)
• Selections may begin before the closing date; we recommend applying early.
• Candidates are required to participate in a phone/MS Teams interview.

For More Information Contact:

Bri Benvenuti

Bri_Benvenuti@fws.gov

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/rachel_carson/