Conservation Science Volunteer, Palmyra Program

The Nature Conservancy; Palmyra (VA); Hybrid; USD 1,080 - 1,320; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to $1,200 for travel

Lodging during orientation

Remote medical coverage

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy seeks a Conservation Science Volunteer for a six-month assignment at Palmyra Atoll starting June 2026. You'll support scientific studies and conservation initiatives, including plant monitoring and data management.

Candidates should have a high school diploma, relevant coursework, and experience in remote environments. Benefits include travel support and remote medical coverage. The position demands physical work in challenging conditions and offers valuable experience in conservation efforts.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with one year of college-level coursework in relevant fields.
• Experience in scientific protocols and data management.
• Ability to perform physical tasks in challenging conditions.
• Valid passport and First Aid/CPR certification required.

Responsibilities

• Participate in native plant establishment and monitoring.
• Maintain equipment, facilities, and lab operations.
• Collect and organize data accurately.
• Report regularly on project findings.

Skills

Scientific studies experience

Data recording and organization

Physical work readiness

Communication skills

Task management

Education

High school diploma or GED

College coursework in biological sciences

Tools

MS Office

Hand tools

Job description

Conservation Science Volunteer – Palmyra Atoll
This volunteer position is a six‑month, contiguous assignment starting in June 2026. Volunteers work on remote Palmyra Atoll, supporting scientific studies and conservation initiatives led by The Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and partners. Tasks include plant establishment and monitoring, invasive species removal, seabird and shorebird monitoring, equipment and facilities maintenance, lab operations, data management, reporting, and occasional community‑facing activities.

Responsibilities

• Participate in native plant establishment, invasive plant removal, and seabird/shorebird monitoring projects.
• Maintain and monitor equipment, facilities, and laboratory operations.
• Collect, organize, and enter data accurately according to established scientific protocols.
• Report regularly on project progress and findings.
• Collaborate with the Island Conservation Strategy Lead on weekly tasking priorities.
• Work independently in hot, humid, wet, and chemically exposed conditions on challenging terrain.
• Support visitor‑facing and community activities when requested.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and at least one year of college‑level coursework in biological sciences, conservation science, or natural resource management (or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience).
• Experience with scientific studies and following established scientific protocols, including accurate data recording and organization.
• Experience living and/or working in remote environments or small communities.
• Ability to perform physical work in hot, humid, wet, and salty conditions, including lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Comfort and sound judgement around waterfront environments, including swimming, recreation, and navigating in open water.
• Proficiency with MS Office programs, especially Word and Excel.
• Valid passport, with an expiration date at least one month beyond the assignment term, and appropriate visa or work permit if required.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification before the start of the volunteer term.
• Evidence of a physical examination showing good health, current tetanus vaccination, and health insurance coverage.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience living in an island community or collaborating with island communities on conservation initiatives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong motivation for the opportunity and a clear statement of how it supports personal or professional growth.
• Strong task management skills with the ability to adapt and make sound decisions in remote, dynamic field conditions.
• Comfort using various hand tools and equipment.

Benefits

• Up to $1,200 for round‑trip travel to and from Honolulu.
• Up to three nights’ stay at a TNC‑selected hotel in Honolulu during the pre‑travel orientation week.
• Round‑trip travel to Palmyra from Honolulu, board and lodging at Palmyra, and key supplies and equipment for the six‑month term.
• Remote medical coverage for non‑emergency physicians and emergency evacuation insurance.
• Comprehensive travel and reimbursement support to facilitate the volunteer’s assignment.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status, or other status protected by law. The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process. TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process.