About this role
Position Summary
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge seeks one individual to fill a seasonal position that will work with the biology, refuge maintenance, and public outreach programs. This is a great opportunity to assist with all aspects of National Wildlife Refuge operations in Alaska.
Location
Tok, AK
Schedule
May 25, 2026 - September 25, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Duties will include assisting with biological surveys including pollinator collection, watercraft inspections, waterfowl banding and vegetation sampling. Maintenance activities will be mowing at refuge facilities, campground maintenance, and other tasks as needed.
Field work involves considerable physical exertion and may require extensive travel on foot, lifting and carrying equipment, loading gear in and out of small boats, walking in deep mud in waders, and enduring cold, wet weather and abundant mosquitos. The selected applicant must therefore be in good physical condition and be able to lift 50 lb.
Position may require operating small boats or canoes, and applicants must be willing to tow (and back) small boat and utility trailers. Field activities are conducted in bear country, requiring training and handling of firearms in compliance with bear safety policy.
Marginal Duties
Outreach and education work will involve assisting with occasional public programs and visitor center operation.
Required Qualifications
Required skills include a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to serve in any capacity that is required. Some experience with outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or hunting/fishing is mandatory.
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 applicants will have work experience and education in biological sciences, public education and outreach as well as maintenance.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
USFWS housing will be provided when not in the field. Housing may be shared and rustic. Please inquire during interview.
Compensation
$790/week living allowance
$1500 travel stipend
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Not needed
Additional Benefits
Bear Safety
Defensive Drive Training
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.
Other facts
About Student Conservation Association
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults.
Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces at various locations across the country.
After working with the SCA, our members emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.
As America’s most effective youth conservation service organization, the SCA transforms lives by empowering young people of all backgrounds to plan, act, and lead while they protect and restore our natural and cultural resources.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is dedicated to building the next generation of conservation leaders while inspiring lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
SCA's mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of our environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
What you'll do
- The individual will assist with biological surveys, maintenance activities, and public outreach programs at the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge. This includes tasks such as pollinator collection, watercraft inspections, and campground maintenance.
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