Wildlife Ecology Intern

Position Summary 

This SCA position will be part of the Cordova Ranger District (Prince William Sound Zone) team working primarily with the Forestry/Ecology/Wildlife programs. The internship will focus on working with the Forest Service Wildlife staff on data management, newspaper/social media article writing and project planning. Additionally, the position will work with the Wildlife and Forestry programs on field-based projects in April and May.

Location 

Cordova, AK

Schedule 

February 16, 2026 - May 9, 2026

*Start and end dates are flexible. Inquire during interview.

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

This internship would be an entry level wildlife position within the PWSZ wildlife and ecology programs working in the Cordova Ranger District office and in the field on the Copper River Delta. The focus will be on data management, writing and project planning with some opportunities for field work. We have a dynamic team and a lot of opportunities for learning new skills in collaboration with our District biologists and team leaders. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the PWS Zone wildlife program in Alaska and gain an understanding and new skills in wildlife management. Field work will be both boat and land based. Hiking in previously harvested timber areas, using GPS to flag boundaries for wildlife thinning contracts.

Marginal Duties 

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

Required Qualifications 

The incumbent should be organized and have some knowledge of forestry, wildlife ecology, or vegetation ecology. We would prefer students or graduates with a study focus in the sciences. Much of the work is computer based and understanding basic computer programs is desired/required. Familiarity with GIS mapping and survey programs will prove beneficial for the incumbent. Field work will require the incumbent to be physically able to hike in uneven terrain for up to 8 hours. May be required to travel and work in the backcountry and other remote locations on the forest, independently, and in teams (boat based or camping for field living conditions).

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

· Current college students.

· Knowledge of wildlife ecology and/or forestry, vegetation ecology.

· Data collection: including information associated with forestry, 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. The bunkhouse is located within a twenty-minute walk to downtown grocery markets and local eateries, which are situated adjacent to Cordova’s harbor and the scenic Prince William Sound. Intern may camp during field work days.

Work Environment: A majority of the winter work will be in the office. The incumbent may be required to travel and work in the backcountry and other remote locations on the forest, independently (road system), and in teams (backcountry).

Cordova Geography: 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.