Seney National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was established in 1935 by Executive Order for the protection and production of migratory birds and other wildlife. At nearly 96,000 acres, Seney NWR is one of the larger National Wildlife Refuges east of the Mississippi River and is exceptionally diverse in both the number of ecosystem types present and the number of wildlife species using these habitats. Seney NWR also administers island refuges in Lakes Superior, Michigan, and Huron, as well as the Kirtland’s Warbler Wildlife Management Area in the northern Lower Peninsula.
Visitor Services Internships
The Refuge offers numerous recreational opportunities including a seven mile Marshland Wildlife Drive, roads open to biking, a self guided interpretive hiking trail, canoeing, bird watching, nature observation, hunting, fishing, photography, hiking and a visitor center.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
The duties assigned to the successful applicant would be wide-ranging and should prepare the applicant for a future career in visitor services or recreation. Assigned duties may include:
- opening and closing the Visitor Center;
- developing and presenting programs for refuge visitors and school groups (e.g., nature walks, auto tours and environmental education programs);
- working on special interpretive projects (e.g., education trunks, brochures, news articles, exhibits, signs, the website, podcasting, etc.)
- assisting with bookstore operations;
- checking and responding to phone messages;
- planning, organizing and conducting special events (e.g., Children's Fishing Day, Youth in the Outdoors, etc.);
- staffing the Visitor Center information desk;
- assisting volunteers;
- cleaning/maintenance of the Visitor Center, exhibits, grounds, and vehicles;
- posting updates on SNHA's Flickr and Facebook pages;
- working with biology staff and interns on wildlife surveys;
- assisting with other responsibilities as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Successful applicants should:
- be energetic and responsible;
- be able to work independently and in small groups with a variety of personalities;
- have public speaking and group management skills;
- have experience in leading programs and working with public is desired;
- have excellent verbal and writing skills;
- be knowledgeable in natural history, biology, bird identification etc.;
- have a valid driver's license (required);
- be pursuing a degree in parks and recreation, environmental education, interpretation, or a related field; however other backgrounds may be accepted.
Benefits and Logistics
- one 24 week and one 12 to 15 week internship are available between the months of May and November;
- $200/week allowance ($250 per week for 24 week interns during second 12 weeks) will be given to SNHA sponsored interns;
- housing, transportation to and from work, and laundry facilities are provided;
- vehicles are provided for work purposes;
- uniform shirts provided, but pants or shorts (shorts, jeans or pants must be in good condition) and closed toed shoes must be provided by the intern;
- 40 hr. work week, including weekends and evenings.
Submit resume, cover letter, unofficial college transcripts, 2 letters of recommendation, and time period available by April 5th, 2013 to Sara Giles, Seney National Wildlife Refuge, 1674 Refuge Entrance Rd. Seney, MI 49883. If you have questions call (906) 586-9851 ext. 10. Phone interview will be conducted starting in March until positions are filled. It is best to get your applications in early.
