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Resources related to careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences

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  • Field Netting Technicians (2 positions in summer 2024), UIUC Human-Wildlife Interactions Lab (Kirksville, MO; due Feb. 8 for highest consideration))

    The Human-Wildlife Interactions Lab at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is recruiting two Field Netting Technicians to aid in an 11-week study of bats in the northern plains of Missouri.  

  • Park Ranger (I), National Park Service (Lackawaxen, PA; due Feb. 2)

    This position serves as a trainee Park Ranger (Interpretation) in any organizational unit within the National Park Service (NPS). The purpose of interpretation is to enrich people's lives through meaningful experiences and enjoyable recreation; preserve and protect natural and cultural resources through broad collaboration and shared stewardship; and inspire social and environmental consciousness to build community and sustain the health of the planet. 

  • Habitat Restoration Technician (summer 2024), Colorado State University - Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (Fort McCoy, WI; open until filled)

    The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University (CSU) will be hiring up to four seasonal Habitat Restoration Technicians to conduct fieldwork at Fort McCoy Military Installation, Wisconsin. Position duration is approximately end of May through end of August, 2024. Positions could be extended beyond projected dates pending hire availability and funding. Starting dates are flexible.

  • Aquatic Field Technician (Hourly) (June-Nov. 2024), Illinois Natural History Survey (Yorkville, IL; open until filled or due March 15)

    Field technicians (2) are needed to conduct applied research in the area of aquatic invasive species control, aquatic ecology, and large river systems throughout the state of Illinois. Technicians will assist large river ecologists in the collection of standardized long-term river monitoring data with additional targeted data collection. In addition, technicians will assist with equipment maintenance and laboratory work. This position will be 40 hours per week and will be located in Yorkville, Illinois.  

  • UTEP ROADS Post-Baccalaureate (one year research and mentoring), University of Texas at El Paso (El Paso, TX; due Mar. 1)

    Research opportunities and access for diverse scientists (ROADS) is an NSF-funded RaMP (Research and Mentoring for Postbaccalaureates) program that aims to provide the next generation of global change scientists with transformative research training and professional development - all while engaging them within a supportive academic network at the University of Texas at El Paso, which is a top tier minority-serving research institution (~80% Hispanic – reflecting the local population). 

    Applications for this immersive training program are open to recently graduated baccalaureate (post-bac) students who have received their degree within the past 4 years; or students who are completing their bachelors degree in Spring 2024 (Before May 30th 2024*). 

  • Visitor Services Technician (Temporary; summer 2024), Sylvan Lake State Park (Eagle, CO; open until filled)

    Housing available.

  • Indiana State Coordinator (full-time), Pollinator Partnership (flexible or remote within IN; due Feb. 28)

    Pollinator Partnership (P2) seeks to hire a motivated and detail-oriented individual in Indiana to serve as State Coordinator to accomplish native, ecotypic seed collection and volunteer programming, as well as provide technical assistance to urban and agricultural communities.  

  • Limited Commissioned Ranger (Summer Temporary), Sylvan Lake State Park (Eagle, CO; open until filled)

    Housing provided.

  • Seasonal Forester (2-3 positions for summer 2024), Colorado State Forest Service (Gould, CO; due Feb. 16)

    Dormitory style housing and utilities provided. Applications will be considered until all vacancies are filled; however, materials should be received by February 16th, 2024 for full consideration.

  • Aquatic/Fisheries Field Technician (Hourly) (up to 8 positions for June-Oct. 2024), Illinois Natural History Survey (Havana, IL; due Feb. 23)

    The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking up to 8 field technicians to conduct applied research in aquatic ecology and large river systems throughout the state of Illinois. Technicians will assist large river ecologists in the collection of standardized long-term river monitoring data with additional targeted data collection. This position will be 40 hours per week and will be located in Havana, Illinois.  

    For full consideration, applications should be received by 02/23/2024but the position may be filled sooner when a suitable candidate is found.         

  • Program Leader or Specialist (Outdoor Education) (summer 2024), Girl Scouts of Chicago and Northeast Indiana (various locations)

    Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana operates three camp locations for ages 5-17. As a camp staff member, you will practice real-world skills that are transferable to all career paths, including leadership, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. You will make a positive difference in hundreds of lives and have fun at summer camp while you do it!

  • Natural Areas Internships (summer 2024) - Grand Prairie Friends (Illinois; open until filled)

    The Natural Areas Internship is designed for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in ecological management. Candidates with experience or interest in natural resources, or already attending college in programs related to natural resources, are encouraged to apply.

  • Biological Science Technician (2 position listings), Range and Meadow Forage Management Research Unit (Burns, OR; due Feb. 9)

    This position is located in the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Range and Meadow Forage Management Research Unit in Burns, OR.

    In this position, you will actively participate in one or more phases of the research process related to soil and vegetation by performing a variety of technical duties in a field or laboratory environment. 

  • Conservation Education Representative (many openings), Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) (various IL locations; deadlines vary Jan. 18-24)

    Recent and soon-to-be graduates: Are you a looking for a rewarding summer job? The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has a fantastic opportunity for you!

     Join Us as a Conservation Education Representative: This summer, we are excited to offer unique positions for recent grads who enjoy working with youth and are passionate about the outdoors. As a Conservation Education Representative (CER), you'll be a part of a team making a difference in various parks around the state. 

  • Student Workers Needed Spring/Summer 2024, UIUC Department of Crop Sciences

    The Weed Science Herbicide Evaluation group is looking for student workers to help with greenhouse and field experiments for SPRING/SUMMER 2024.

  • Natural Resource Instructor (summer 2024), Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department (Castleton or Woodbury, VT; open until filled)

    If you’re interested in wildlife conservation, working outdoors, and educating youth, then jumpstart your conservation career with a position at the Green Mountain Conservation Camps. Salary: Starts at $714/week + room and board.

  • Environmental Educator, Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University (Hickory Corners, MI; due Jan. 1)

    Environmental Instructor. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, Hickory Corners, MI.

    The MSU’s Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta, MI seeks passionate and energetic environmental educators to engage students in hands-on, place-based learning experiences at MSU’s Kellogg Bird Sanctuary. Instructors are assigned to lead field trips and outreach programming, These positions report to KBS’s Outreach Coordinator.

  • Environmental Education Program Coordinator, Dallas County Conservation Board (Perry, IA; due Dec. 27)

    This position is responsible for coordinating the development and implementation of environmental education programs.  This position has direct supervision over Naturalist.

  • Biological Science Technician (Plants) (summer 2024), National Park Service (Ashland, OR; due Dec. 29)

    The Pacific West Region is recruiting for summer seasonal Biological Science Technician (Plants), GS-0404-5/6/7 positions intended to assist permanent staff with Biological Science Technician (Plants) field work.

    Open to the first 125 applicants or until 12/29/2023 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.

  • Events, Outreach & Communication Coordinator, Rock River Coalition (Jefferson, WI; due Jan. 10)

    Rock River Coalition seeks an enthusiastic, detail-oriented person with a strong understanding of both science and communications to assist with communications, outreach, and event management efforts. 

  • Temporary Limited Commissioned Ranger (May-Sept. or Oct. 2024), Vega State Park (Mesa County, CO; open until filled)

    Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources. Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

  • HDR, Inc. Open House and Reverse Career Fair January 4, 2024

    HDR Inc. in Rosemont, Illinois is in search of environmental studies and engineering students.

  • Temporary Seasonal Employee (various positions or internship May-Sept. or Oct. 2024), Vega State Park (Mesa County, CO; open until filled)

    The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

  • Fisheries Management Technician (Hourly) - Illinois Natural History Survey (Gibson City, IL; due Feb. 16)

    The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking multiple (up to 2) technicians to conduct field and laboratory work in support of sportfish management projects in streams and reservoirs in Illinois. Fieldwork responsibilities include measuring limnological parameters and sampling fish using boat electrofishing in reservoirs and stream electrofishing gears in wadable streams. Must be knowledgeable in or willing to learn field and laboratory techniques associated with fisheries and aquatic ecology research. Experience operating boats, outboard motors, and trailers is preferred. Other duties include data entry and maintenance of sampling gears, boats and trailers, outboard motors, and laboratory equipment. Experience with field gears, microscopy, and freshwater fish identification is preferred. Work will be conducted in conjunction with Illinois Department of Natural Resources District Fisheries Biologists. Job offer comes with an expected commitment of 12 months, renewable up to 24 months.

  • Seasonal Forester (2-3 positions in summer 2024), Colorado State Forest Service (Gould, CO; due Feb. 16)

    Duties and Responsibilities:

    • Cruising and data collection for forest-wide inventory
    • Scouting and treatment layout for projects focused on watershed protection and climate change
    • Field support on Adaptive Silvicuture for Climate Change projects
    • Chainsaw operation - thinning, firewood, and defensible space work
    • Assisting with timber sale layout - cruising, boundary delineation, and marking
    • Various GPS and GIS applications
    • Assisting with assessment and treatment of insect and disease projects
    • General labor - rock headers, fences, facility and equipment maintenance, construction projects, etc.
  • Natural Areas Worker (summer 2024), Chicago Park District (Chicago, IL; due Jan. 4)

    Under immediate supervision, performs manual labor and operates equipment in support of natural areas restoration activities conducted at Park District facilities, including parks, special facilities, greenhouses, nurseries and nature gardens and other nature area communities. Performs related duties as required. 

  • Openlands Arborist Registered Apprenticeship

    The Openlands Arborist Registered Apprenticeship 2024 cohort application will be available on Monday, January 8. They will be hosting a virtual, informational session on Monday December 18 at 6pm to provide interested applicants more information about the program, discuss the hiring timeline, and answer questions.

  • Seasonal Herpetological Technician (Hourly), Illinois Natural History Survey (Champaign, IL; due Jan. 15)

    We are seeking 4 individuals to fill these roles. 2 positions will begin on or before March 1, 2024, and 2 will start on or around April 15, 2024. 2 positions will end on September 30, 2024, and 2 will end on October 31, 2024.  

  • Natural Resources Technician, Forest Preserves of Champaign County (Mahomet, IL; open until filled)

    The Natural Resources Technician is responsible for assisting with natural areas management throughout the District. This includes invasive plant management; restoration and conservation of prairie/savanna, forest/woodlands, and wetlands; and support of the District’s education and recreation efforts. 

  • Conservation Land Management Program (summer 2024 start), Chicago Botanic Garden (various U.S. locations; interest form open)

    The Conservation and Land Management Program (CLM) at the Chicago Botanic Garden offers real-world experience to recent college graduates and young professionals interested in land management and conservation science.  

    Through a cooperative agreement with the US Forest Service, in 2024 the CLM program will hire and train interns to assist National Forests/Grasslands with their native plant materials development program, primarily through seed collection. These positions are really great for building plant identification and botanical expertise, navigation skills in the field, as well as networking opportunities and experience working at a federal agency.  

    These are 19-23-week paid positions.

  • Maintenance Worker, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (5 vacancies including Marion and Ullin, IL; due Dec. 11)

    As a Maintenance Worker your duties will include, but are not limited to, performing general maintenance on facilities (e.g., painting, electrical, plumbing, siding), operating farm tractors, backhoes, mowers and other types of equipment to construct and maintain refuge facilities, using a variety of hand and power tools including hand saws, drills, planes, routers, power nailers and fasteners, metal shears, power saws, and power sanders and planes to maintain facilities, maintaining restrooms, roads, parking areas, boat ramps, etc, aiding in installation/repair of cabinets, fences, siding, etc., and assisting in mixing and pouring cement.

    This is a temporary appointment intended for seasonal work that is less than 6 months or 1040 hours from the date of appointment/service year. It is expected this position will be terminated upon completion of the seasons work. The agency may non-competitively rehire an eligible temporary seasonal worker in subsequent years who works less than 6 months or 1040 hours in their service year. At management's discretion, this appointment may be extended up to one-year with the possibility of extending an additional one-year.

  • Sustainability Initiative Coordinator, NC State University (Raleigh, NC; open until filled)

    Through strategic partnerships, communication, and individual project and reporting efforts, the Coordinator will help to strengthen the bridge between the research, education, and extension missions of the university with campus itself, leveraging the potential of the campus as a living lab to further sustainability scholarship and practice.

  • NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program (summer 2024), Illinois Natural History Survey (Champaign, IL; due Feb. 5)

    The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program sponsored by the National Science Foundation supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the Foundation. The Illinois Natural History Survey (Prairie Research Institute) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking undergraduate students who want to be involved in an ongoing research project focused on the detection and characterization of phytoplasmas, a group of bacteria associated with insects (vectors, primarily Hemiptera) and plants (hosts) and implicated in plant disease.

    The focus of this project is to uncover the true diversity of phytoplasmas worldwide, reconstruct their evolutionary relationships, and document their associations with insects and plants by screening a large collection of insects preserved in a museum biorepository using modern DNA sequencing techniques and by revisioning large available literature.

  • REU Ecology in Human Dominated Landscapes (summer 2024), Miami University (Oxford, OH; apply by March 2024)

    The Miami University Research Experience for Undergrads (REU) program in Ecology and Environment is a summer research program supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Our program is an exciting opportunity for 9-12 undergraduate students to actively engage in a 10-week collaborative research project. 

    • Each student focuses on an independent research project.
    • Research opportunities are available in the lab or field (aquatic or terrestrial environments).
    • Small groups of students and mentors form clusters that meet regularly to discuss current literature related to their projects. 
    • The summer includes field trips, short courses on ethics and professions in ecology and environmental science, and seminars by guest speakers.
    • Participants interact with students from diverse backgrounds and make connections with faculty and graduate students as they learn about Ecology and Environmental Science as a career.
  • Biological Science Technician (General), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (14 vacancies including Ullin, IL; due Dec. 11)

    As a Biological Science Technician (General) your duties will include, but are not limited to, the following:

    • Participates in multifaceted wildlife, and fish population studies
    • Assist with performing biological studies
    • Surveys and observes avian populations
    • Collects avian morphometric data and biological samples
    • Assists in collecting data on hatchery populations
    • Assists hatchery crew in providing daily care to fish in an aquaculture facility
    • Independently identifies and collects plant species for studies
    • Coordinates with private landowners, other federal and state agencies to carry out low complexity, non-controversial habitat restoration projects
    • Surveys location for invasive species populations
    • Assists with invasive species removal projects
  • Bat Survey Field Technician (Hourly) (summer 2024), Illinois Natural History Survey (Champaign, IL; due Jan. 31)

    The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking 2 field technicians to assist with the 2024 summer field sampling for the Illinois Bat Conservation Program (IBCP), including acoustic surveys and mist netting. Technicians will generally work in teams of 2 to complete tasks which include communicating with landowners, deploying stationary bat acoustic recorders, driving mobile acoustic transects, and assisting with mist netting with the field team. Technicians will also be responsible for backing up, processing, and data entry of acoustic output.

  • 2024 Seasonal (summer) Ecological Technicians, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (Pratt, KS; due Dec. 29)

    Positions will be available for up to 12 technicians creating 3 separate crews. Incumbents will be performing aquatic or terrestrial surveys, dependent upon their assigned crew, across the state, specifically related to native Kansas fauna. Crews have the potential to conduct the following activities: (1) surveying for native mussels in their historical range throughout Kansas (2) assessment of threatened and endangered aquatic species statewide; (3) surveying for state-threatened species of reptiles and amphibians in appropriate habitats; (4) survey bats and small mammal communities using appropriate methods and procedures (5) conduct standardized aquatic surveys of fish and macroinvertebrate communities in public and/or private areas. Some lab work involving the identification, sorting, and cataloging of collected specimens obtained from surveys may be required. Assist with conducting educational events for students of various ages. Maintaining good working relationships with other institutions and personnel will be required. Perform other duties as required

  • Prescribed Burn Technicians (spring 2024), Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (East Bethel, MN; due Feb. 12)

    Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, a field station of the University of Minnesota, is looking for four to six technicians to assist in our spring-prescribed burn program.  The positions could start anywhere from March 18th to April 1st and end around mid-May (start and end dates are weather-dependent). This is a 40-hour-per-week position, but the hours are variable, especially on days we burn. There is the possibility of overtime on intense burn weeks. Housing is available to rent on-site. Pay is $15 per hour. If you have graduated or are not currently enrolled in classes, we encourage you to apply. 

  • Forestry Technician, Shawnee RC&D

    The Shawnee RC&D is seeking applicants to fill a full-time (40 hours/week) term Forestry Technician contract position. Work will include reviewing, writing and updating forest management plans and implementing practices that restore and regenerate oak forests.  Additional duties include preparing and implementing prescribed burns, conducting Forest Stand Improvement, invasive species control, and other duties as assigned. This position works under the general direction of the IDNR District Forester and submits reports to the Shawnee RC&D. Follow this link to view the position announcement and application instructions: Forestry Tech Announcement 2023

  • REU Understanding Coastal Ecosystems - From the Everglades to the Coral Reefs (summer 2024), Florida International University (Miami, FL; due Jan. 30)

    The Coastal Ecosystems Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site program is a 10-week paid research fellowship located on the campuses of Florida International University in Miami, FL. This year's program runs from May 20, 2024 - July 26, 2024.

    The Research Theme of the REU Site is the ecology of coastal ecosystems across gradients of human impact.  Specifically, our research looks at coastal ecosystem ecology, water quality, and the connections among the Everglades wetlands, coastal mangrove forests, seagrass beds and shallow water coral reefs. Our goal is to detect the sources, transport and transformation of environmental stressors and the ecosystem responses under rapid changing climate and land-use.

    The summer research experience for undergraduates includes a stipend of $6000 plus a $1200 food allowance for successful completion of the full 10-week program, as well as roundtrip travel to Miami and campus housing. For summer 2024, research opportunities will be based on the Modesto A Maidique Campus in west Miami. 

  • Adult Learning Programs Coordinator, The Morton Arboretum (Lisle, IL; due Jan. 1)

    The Morton Arboretum is seeking two experienced individuals who can join the team to help build strong community relationships through outreach and engagement of community leaders and staff. These individuals will need to be able to write and manage grants, including the implementation of projects at the local and statewide scale. They should have a strong interest in environmental policy and working directly with government entities across the state to help with the management of their trees. The successful candidates will need to be able to relay complex topics and strategies to a wide range of audiences in small and large group settings in a clear and concise way through written and oral expression. The CRTI is seeking people who are well-organized and self-motivated to help our team succeed. This is a hybrid-eligible position. 

  • Urban Agriculture Associate, Pollinator Partnership (flexible/remote within OH or MI; due Dec. 15)

    Pollinator Partnership (P2) is looking for two experienced and passionate professionals who possess the skills to lead and advance sustainable urban agriculture in Ohio and Michigan.

  • Sustainability Coordinator, Spelman College (Atlanta, GA; open until filled)

    The Sustainability Coordinator will coordinate campus sustainability initiatives and help integrate sustainability into College initiatives. 

  • Camp Counselor/Naturalist (summer 2024), Central Wisconsin Environmental Station (CWES), University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (open until filled)

    We are hiring summer counselor/naturalists to serve as educators, caretakers, and mentors for the 2024 season. The Central Wisconsin Environmental Station is a field station supported by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources and the UWSP Foundation, Inc. The Station is operated year-round by permanent staff and university students as an environmental education center for people of all ages. 

  • Research Technician (Hourly) (Jan. - March or June; studying wild turkeys), Illinois Natural History Survey (Shelbyville, IL; due Dec. 15)

    The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking 3 field technicians to conduct research on the behavior and habitat use of wild turkeys in Illinois. Primary responsibilities will include trapping, radio-tagging, tracking wild turkeys, and remotely downloading data from their transmitters.

  • Research Associate (summer 2024-2026), Environmental Law Institute (Washington, DC; due Jan. 19)

    The Public Interest Law Fellow works closely with other ELI attorneys and professionals, including our U.S. and international partners, to advance environmental protection, the rule of law, and environmental justice. The work frequently requires considering how environmental protection is affected by other laws and policies that are related to environment and society — e.g., those governing energy, taxation, land use, human rights, and governance and administration.

  • Environmental Planning Specialist (NEPA), A.I.S. Inc. (Moline, IL; due Dec. 4)

    AIS is seeking a Environmental Planning Specialist (NEPA) to support the Illinois and Iowa Ecological Services Field Office (ILIA) by performing and assisting with biological duties in the Illinois and Iowa Ecological Services Field Office, particularly under the scopes of Conservation Planning Assistance and the Endangered Species Program. The selected candidate will support all Programs in the Field Office, with a focus on wind renewable energy.

  • Natural Resource Specialist, UW-Madison Arboretum (Madison, WI; due Dec. 6)

    The Natural Resource Specialist is a member of the Arboretum Land Care field crew and works with the Land Care Manager, Natural Resource Crew Leader, and the rest of the field crew to implement restoration and management plans for the Arboretum's restored and remnant plant and animal communities. Sample responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to, invasive tree and shrub removal with chainsaws, brush saws, etc.; invasive herbaceous plant management with herbicide, hand-pulling, etc.; and collection of native seeds. This position also assists in the management of the horticultural gardens and performs general maintenance of the grounds, including snow removal and mowing grass.

  • Visiting Scientific and Outreach Specialist, Land and Indigenous Management, Arboretum (Urbana, IL; due Dec. 1)

    The Arboretum is seeking a Visiting Scientific and Outreach Specialist, Land and Indigenous Management to conduct applied research and service activities at the Arboretum with an emphasis on establishment of indigenous gardens, control of invasive species, and introduction of native species in the Southern Arboretum Woodlands and Miles C. Hartley Garden.

  • Crew Leader Positions (Feb. 2024 start), Montana Conservation Corps (various MT locations)

    As a crew leader, you will work to oversee 3-4 adult crew members on 4-9 day overnight conservation projects on some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Northern Rockies and Plains. Some crew leaders will lead a crew solo, some will lead with a co-leader, and some will have an assistant crew leader. The crew you will oversee will be made up of adults who are 17-30 years old and come from a variety of backgrounds and locations throughout the country. Crew Leaders will be responsible for helping to facilitate crew member growth, manage conflict on their crew, and support the crew in completing quality project work in the field.