Individual Placement-Alaska- Forest Service Summer Wildlife Placement

Position Summary 

This SCA position will be part of the Cordova Ranger District team working primarily with the Ecology/Wildlife and Forestry programs.

The placement will focus on collecting data in the field for both wildlife and ecology as well as conducting stewardship projects to improve natural landscapes and wildlife habitat. Projects include bird surveys, waterfowl habitat enhancement, moose habitat monitoring, invasive work, vegetation monitoring, and outreach/education.

Location 

Cordova, AK

Schedule 

April 13, 2026 - September 26, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

This internship would be an entry level wildlife position within the PWSZ wildlife and ecology programs working in Prince William Sound and the Copper River Delta.

We have a wide variety of work that includes, bird surveys, waterfowl habitat enhancement, moose habitat monitoring, invasive work, vegetation monitoring, and outreach/education.

The incumbent would work in a team setting in some of the most beautiful country Alaska has to offer. This area also hosts abundant wildlife, including bears. The incumbent will work in a team in the field as well as receive training to prepare for our robust field season (bear safety, flight safety, first aid…).

We have a dynamic team and a lot of opportunity for learning new skills in collaboration with our District biologists and team leaders.

· Assist team lead with field logistics and field gear preparation

· Wildlife data collection and some opportunity for analysis

· Write scientifically-sound reports and articles.

· Provide plant ecology program support.

Marginal Duties 

The incumbent would also be asked to write small reports and articles covering various topics and projects.

May be required to travel and work in the backcountry and other remote locations on the forest, independently, and in teams.

Required Qualifications 

The incumbent should have some knowledge in wildlife ecology or vegetation ecology. This position will work in a variety of landscapes including but not limited to wetlands, forests, intertidal zones, and streams.

Much of the field work is conducted from remote field camps and boats and planes are common modes of transportation. Much of the work can be physically demanding and may require long days carrying packs weighing up to 30 lbs and walking through wetlands and other challenging terrain.

Coastal Alaska weather may be inclement and field crews can expect multiple day rain events in the middle of summer. Although challenging, this position will be the adventure of a lifetime!

· Preferred college graduate. Minimum Bachelor's degree in wildlife, fisheries, botany, hydrology, soil science, water resources, or environmental management.

· Current college students.

· Knowledge of wildlife ecology as well as knowledge of vegetation ecology.

· Data collection: including information associated with wildlife and their habitats.

· Deep interest in environment/natural resource management and the US Forest Service.

· Ability to work both independently and with others collaboratively on Forest Service projects.

· Strong writing skills with demonstrated writing ability (writing sample may be required).

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 

Students or graduates with a study focus in the sciences.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

USFS bunkhouse/cabin is shared accommodations. Intern may share a room with one other person. Common areas are shared. Intern may camp during field work days.

Located on the east edge of the Prince William Sound, Cordova is a remote coastal community renowned for its abundant seasonal salmon and wildlife observations. Hosting one of the largest stopover locations for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl which is in part due to its proximity to the Copper River Delta. In a similar fashion to these migrators, access to Cordova is gained by flight or ferry transport.

Residing in the Prince William Sound, which is the most norther Temperate Rainforest, will provide a variety of weather, but will best suit to those ready to don sturdy raingear and rubber boots. During this appointment you can expect high temperatures in February near 32 degrees and reach nearly 50 degrees in May.

Compensation  

Living Allowance - $475/wk

Housing Allowance - $300/mo

Travel Allowance - $1,500

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Not needed

Additional Benefits 

Bear Safety

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.