- Agency
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife
- Location
- Valentine, Nebraska
- Job Category
- Internships
- Salary
- $3000 Stipend, Free Housing
- Start Date
- 05/15/2023
- Last Date to Apply
- 05/30/2023
- Website
- https://www.fws.gov/refuge/fort-niobrara
- Description
- The Visitor Services Intern will assist with visitor services operations at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is over 19,000 acres and was established for the conservation of native birds. The Refuge has many unique features including, a National Scenic River, a Wilderness area, and the most intact temperate grassland in the world, that is managed with the help of our herd of 350 bison. While located in a rural setting, the refuge receives more than 50,000 visits annually and serves as a gateway for thousands of visitors who come to Valentine, NE to canoe, kayak and float the Niobrara Scenic River. Main duties of the position include greeting and interacting with the public, coordinating public outreach events, partnering with the National Park Service and our friends group, assisting with the administration of a fee-recreation program, developing signs and exhibits. The candidate must be aware of and able to describe refuge policies, updates, answer questions about the refuge and surrounding areas, including the recreation program, hiking opportunities, plants, and wildlife. The intern will answer the main phone line, respond to inquiries, and direct calls to other employees. Other office duties may include, assisting with data entry, helping in the Sandhills Prairie Refuge Association Friends group, photo slide sorting, updating SDS sheets, and ensuring the visitor center is clean and presentable. The intern will also assist with biological and maintenance activities. Duties including but not limited to the replacement of boundary signs, lawn maintenance, trail maintenance, fence maintenance, power washing, painting, trash cleanup, vehicle detailing, turtle fencing and bison management.
- Qualifications
- -Competitive applicants for this position can hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED and/or have interest in subject areas such as natural resources, biology, ecology or a related subject. -Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group. -A valid driver's license -Able to take and follow directions and complete appointed tasks in a timely manner. -Be punctual and have regular attendance. -Knowledge of interpretive, educational, and recreational programs. -Customer Service experience/skills. -Ability to work independently and as part of a group. -Familiarity with Microsoft Office software and other computer programs -Ability to work in a fast paced/changing environment. -Optimistic “can-do” attitude -Willingness to abide by the refuge’s mission, vision and values. -Work environment conditions can change frequently, working under adverse weather conditions and in various climates. To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional/academic references to Katie_Schober@fws.gov. 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 Katie Schober at Katie_Schober@fws.gov. 402-346-3789 ext 227
- Contact Person
- Katie Schober
- Contact Phone
- 308-645-7440
- Contact eMail
- Katie_Schober@fws.gov
