National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Survey Field Team Members - Traveling Nationally

American Conservation Experience; Fort Collins (CO); Remote; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to conservation! This role offers a unique opportunity to travel across national wildlife refuges, assisting with visitor surveys and gaining invaluable experience in natural resource management. Ideal for those passionate about wildlife and conservation, you will work closely with a supportive team while developing your skills in a dynamic environment. Enjoy flexible hours, free housing, and the chance to make a significant impact in the conservation field. If you're ready for an adventure and to contribute to meaningful projects, this position is perfect for you.

Benefits

Free housing during travel

Up to $200 for gear purchases

Flexible schedule

Training and orientation provided

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident required.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Strong communication and organizational skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Participate in visitor recruitment training and collect survey data.
• Travel extensively to different wildlife refuges.
• Document field activities and report progress.

Skills

Communication Skills

Organizational Ability

Teamwork

Independence

Education

Associate’s degree in Natural Resources

Relevant experience in Biology or Ecology

Job description

Summary: American Conservation Experience, a non-profit conservation corps, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), is seeking six (6) National Visitor Survey team members to assist with a multi-year nationwide survey of visitors to national wildlife refuges. These positions involve traveling to different refuge units approximately every two weeks to recruit visitors for post-trip surveys and perform visitor estimation inventory tasks to analyze visitation trends.

Individuals and teams are encouraged to apply, as ACE members will travel and work in pairs.

For more information about ACE, visit usaconservation.org.

Start Date: July 2025

End Date: December 2025

*A 22-week commitment is required.*

Location: TBD (traveling)

The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to conserve, manage, and restore lands and waters for fish, wildlife, and plant resources, benefiting current and future Americans. With over 560 refuges across the U.S., understanding visitor experiences is key to effective land management.

The Visitor Survey effort, led by the Service's Human Dimensions Branch, gathers data on visitors' recreational, educational, and satisfaction levels, aiding resource allocation and future planning.

Position Overview:

This role supports FWS in conserving natural resources by:

1. Participating in pre-sampling visitor recruitment training in Fort Collins, CO.
2. Traveling extensively to refuges, spending about 2 weeks at each site.
3. Approaching visitors to collect contact information following survey protocols.
4. Reporting progress via check-in calls with the Survey Coordinator.
5. Documenting field activities through photos, reports, and blogs.
6. Assisting remotely with project tasks and other refuge-specific projects such as habitat restoration and wildlife surveys.

Previous teams have shared their experiences in a blog on the USFWS website.

This position promotes personal growth, professional development, and networking with agency professionals, offering experience across various conservation fields.

Schedule & Benefits:

Work primarily during daylight hours, with a flexible schedule that may include weekends and holidays. Up to 80 hours bi-weekly. Off-time requests are approved by ACE and FWS.

Living Allowance: $500/week, dispersed bi-weekly, for approximately 40 hours/week of work.

Public Land Corps Eligibility: Potential eligibility for federal hiring authority after completing 640 hours of service.

Housing & Gear: Free housing and camping during travel and at refuges. Up to $200 for gear purchases with prior approval.

Training & Orientation: Position-specific training and orientation provided by ACE.

Qualifications:

Required:

• U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident
• Professional, positive attitude and representation of ACE and partner organization
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record
• Pass criminal history check
• Ability to perform essential duties with or without accommodations
• Completion of bi-weekly timesheets and evaluations
• No participation in prohibited activities as per Member Service Agreement

Preferred:

• Associate’s degree or relevant experience in natural resources, biology, ecology, or related fields
• Strong communication skills, organizational ability, and experience with USFWS missions
• Experience with public interaction, bilingual in English and Spanish, and a desire for a career in natural resource management

Physical & Environmental Conditions:

• Physical exertion, including walking long distances, lifting up to 40 lbs., and working in various weather conditions
• Outdoor and indoor environments, potential hazards include extreme weather, wildlife, and insects
• Travel required, with safety protocols for equipment and vehicle use

Application Process:

Submit your resume, cover letter, and three references via ACE’s online application at usaconservation.org. Early applications are encouraged as the position may close early. For questions, contact Mac Utter, ACE EPIC FWS Member Manager.

We welcome applicants who meet at least 70% of the qualifications.

ACE participates in E-Verify and is committed to equal opportunity employment.