Employer: American Conservation Experience Job Field: Forestry Water and Soil Resources Wildlife GIS/Technology Policy/Administrative Job Type: Seasonal, Temporary, Internship Location: Florida Location Detail: Crystal River, FL Job Description: American Conservation Experience, a nonprofit Conservation Corps, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), is seeking ONE Visitor Services Support Member to contribute to the refuge Visitor Services Program project alongside Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Staff. During this term, the ACE member will provide support and assistance under the guidance and direction of FWS staff in conducting community and social media outreach, monitoring and recording visitation data, educating the public, and other administrative duties. The member will provide support and assistance under the guidance and direction of FWS staff in the accomplishment of: -Assisting with community outreach through Facebook and other outlets -Develop and conduct interpretive programs -Monitoring and recording visitation data for Three Sisters Springs (TSS) and other units of the Complex -Communicating with the public on how to recreate responsibly inside TSS -Scanning documents and entering data -Assisting with biological studies as needed -Producing, editing and distributing interpretative documents -Assist with regular, routine patrols in designated recreational areas to observe, inspect, and report on user activities and on-the-ground conditions, to maintain contact and liaison with and provide information to visitors, and to obtain specific information and data required by the FWS supervisor. -This individual placement is meant to facilitate professional development and promotes exposure to land management agencies and networking with professionals. --This could include gaining experience in different conservation fields and shadowing different work groups. Schedule: Duties will primarily be carried out Tuesday - Saturday (8am-4:30pm). Bi-weekly totals should not exceed 80 hours. A flexible work schedule may be required, which could involve work performed outside of normal work hours including on weekends and/or holidays. Time off may be granted and requests should be directed to ACE and the FWS for approval. Qualifications: Members must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident, as required by U.S. government contracts Willing and able to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner. Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group. A valid driver's license and an insurable driving record (documentation to be provided upon request). Willing to undergo and must pass the required three-part criminal history check. Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. ACE Members will need to complete bi-weekly timesheets, beginning of term feedback forms, end of term evaluations and for longer terms, a mid-term evaluation. Member may not participate in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement or as defined by AmeriCorps. To learn more about eligibility requirements, please visit our website: https://www.usaconservation.org/epic/#eligibility-requirements. Ability to interact with and educate visitors Ability to tolerate the Florida summer heat Comfortable kayaking and standing for extended periods of time Preferred: Competitive applicants for this position can hold or be pursuing a Bachelor's degree or relevant experience in natural resources, biology, ecology, conservation education or a related subject. Ability and willingness to work with others, including but not limited to other interns, staff members, volunteers and the public. Deep interest in deep interest in wildlife conservation and education. Miscellaneous: Start Date: September 2023 Estimated End Date: September 2024 *a 52 week minimum commitment is required, approximately 2,080 hours* Physical Demands: Requires physical exertion such as kayaking, walking long distances for extended periods of time over wet and rough surfaces while carrying up to 40 lbs.; bending, crouching, stooping, lifting or reaching. Hand and finger dexterity and physical coordination may involve fine and precise procedures, delicate adjustments or exact measurements. Weight Lifted or Force Exerted: Ability to move up to 40 pounds. Environmental: The Visitor Services Support Member may encounter environmental conditions/hazards including extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, swamp or wetland conditions, biting insects, and potentially dangerous wildlife. The member is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow staff/members or resources. Travel: This position does not require unique travel. Environmental Conditions/Hazards: The ACE member(s) may encounter environmental conditions/hazards including extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, swamp or wetland conditions, biting insects, and potentially dangerous wildlife. The member is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow staff/members or resources. Vehicle and Equipment Use/Safety: If a vehicle is required for the accomplishment of the duties, one will be provided by the FWS or ACE. Any tools required for the accomplishment of the duties will be provided by the FWS. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), typically provided by the FWS, will be mandatory for any activity that requires it. Strict adherence to FWS and ACE equipment training, certification and safety protocols is required. Salary: $600/week Benefits: Living Allowance: The ACE Member is expected to contribute 40 hours/week and will receive a living allowance of $600/week to offset the costs of food and incidental expenses, dispersed bi-weekly. AmeriCorps Education Award Program: This position may be eligible for an 1700-hour AmeriCorps Education Award while serving under the EAP 2022/23 grant year program, valued up to $6,495.00 upon successful completion of a complete service term and 1700 hrs. Loan Forbearance: AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for federal loan forbearance. Additional enrollment steps are required. Qualifying Child Care Coverage: AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for qualifying child care coverage. Additional enrollment steps are required. Public Land Corps Hiring Authority: Members serving under this agreement may be eligible for a federal hiring authority upon completion of their term of service. PLC projects also include specific eligibility requirements such as age and citizenship. Please contact ACE staff with questions about eligibility, or view general information online: https://www.usaconservation.org/epic/#eligibility-requirements. Housing: ACE members will be accommodated in provided FWS housing at no cost for the duration of the term. Relocation Allowance: ACE members will have access to up to $1,000 to be used for eligible relocation expenses. Further details regarding distribution of these funds will be provided during the interview process. Gear Reimbursement: ACE members will have up to $200 to spend on eligible gear purchases. Eligible gear for this position must be approved by ACE staff prior to purchase. Provided Training/Orientation: ACE members will receive position specific training and an orientation outlining ACE policies and procedures, clear guidance on prohibited activities, and networks for support. How to Apply: To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional/academic references to the online application page for this position here: https://usaconservation.applicantpool.com/jobs/988208.html. Early consideration will be given as resumes are received. This position may close at any time. If you have any questions regarding this position please feel free to contact ACE EPIC FWS Program Manager, Johannah McCollum at jmccollum@usaconservation.org. EEO: American Conservation Experience provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, American Conservation Experience complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities."
