Environmental Interpretation Internships – Laurel, MD
Organization: US Fish and Wildlife Service, Patuxent Research Refuge
Position Title: Environmental Interpretation Intern
Location: Patuxent Research Refuge, Laurel, MD
Hours & Compensation: Must work weekends, two days off per week. Full-time. $195/week with dormitory housing available.
Position Dates: May 17 – August 16, 2013.
Application Deadline: March 22, 2013.
Organization Overview:
Patuxent Research Refuge is one of over 540 refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The National Wildlife Refuge System is the world’s largest network of lands and waters dedicated to protecting wildlife and their habitat.
Established in 1936 by executive order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Patuxent Research Refuge is the Nation’s only National Wildlife Refuge established to support wildlife research. Today most of the research on the refuge is conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) through the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center.
With land surrounding the Patuxent and Little Patuxent Rivers between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD, the Refuge has grown from the original 2,670 acres to its present size of 12,841 acres and encompasses land formerly managed by the Departments of Agriculture and Defense. Throughout decades of change, Patuxent’s mission of conserving and protecting the nation’s wildlife and habitat through research and wildlife management techniques has remained virtually unchanged.
Patuxent Research Refuge is divided into three areas: 1) North Tract, which offers hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, trails, and many interpretive programs; 2) Central Tract, where the offices and study sites of the many research biologists are located at the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center; and 3) South Tract, where the National Wildlife Visitor Center and its trails are located. The National Wildlife Visitor Center and North Tract are the only areas open for visitor activities.
Description and Responsibilities:
Provide quality educational experiences for all visitors to the National Wildlife Visitor Center and Patuxent Research Refuge through developing and conducting interpretive and educational programs for all ages, leading interpretive tram tours focusing on wildlife management and research, working with Scout groups, and assisting with all operations of a visitor center. Work schedule will include weekends (two days off during week), and some holidays.
Qualifications:
- Must have well-developed communication skills and leadership ability.
- Be able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Experience working with children and adults preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in education, natural resources, or related field desired.
- Driver’s license necessary.
How to Apply: Send letter of interest, resume, and list of 3 references with phone numbers and email.
Contact Information:
Amy Shoop, Patuxent Research Refuge, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Look, Laurel, MD 20708-4027
