Conservation Positions

AFNHA is still accepting applications for sites across our region. More positions will be available throughout the Summer. Please check back in weekly for new positions as they become available.

Open Positions

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge/US Fish and Wildlife Service - 2 Full time, One Year Positions
Biological Technician
Davis, Tucker County, WV
Robert Frank - Supervisor
Free on-site housing available

Serve a year in an ecosystem called “Little Canada.” Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge is looking for 2 members to serve in a lush deciduous rainforest in the highlands of W.V. This position focuses on wildlife with a wide variety of biological studies duties including monitoring of bats, vernal pools, beaver dams, water quality, threatened and endangered native species, and non-native invasive plant species. Monitoring includes field surveys, and the GIS and data duties related to these studies. Members help organize and participate in tree planting and public lands improvement projects. In addition, members conduct outreach events, manage volunteers, help with visitor services, events and school group activities, and provide interpretive walks about the Refuge. Conservation degree with some field work experience expected. Love where you live and join our team in Canaan Valley, WV!

Skills Sought:

- Degree in a biological science field with preference for wildlife science/management and forestry.
- Ability to use computer technology to maintain and retrieve information from automated data systems, develop spreadsheets, and use word processing and statistical software programs in order to develop reports.
- Familiarity with geographic information system (GIS), aerial photography and survey techniques, and global positioning systems (GPS). Ability to communicate in writing in order to assist in the preparation of wildlife management survey summaries.
- Ability to provide work direction and guidance to volunteers. Ability to operate small water craft, cars, trucks and trailers.
- Ability to use various specialized tools and equipment required to conduct wildlife studies surveys. Ability to capture, handle, and tag or collar various wildlife.
- Ability to work doing strenuous activity for significant periods of time, often walking over rough terrain and in muddy conditions; on rough or uneven surfaces; wading through vegetation choked marshes, lifting and carrying heavy objects, and in many instances during difficult weather conditions.
- Collection survey data requires good vision and field work results in exposure to such things as: poison ivy insects, sun, wind, temperature variation and many varieties of pollen.
- Seasonal field studies involve considerable physical demands, such as frequent, extensive travel on foot; bending; crouching; and climbing; exertion from lifting and carrying equipment; and energy drain from cold, wet and windy weather.
- Must be in good physical condition and anticipate the demands of each field trip. Occasionally lifts containers weighing up to 35 pounds.
- Must be a hard worker that can work solo or in a team setting.