Individual Placement - Conservation Biology at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge

Position Summary

The biology member will engage in both wetland management, with an emphasis on invasive species removal, and community engagement activities. The role provides hands-on field experience at a national wildlife refuge, supporting ecological restoration, inventory/monitoring, and outreach initiatives. The member will

work full-time (approximately 40 hours per week) and should expect to spend much of their time outdoors in a range of weather conditions.

Location

Philadelphia, PA

• Schedule

May 18, 2026 - October 30, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with wetland management activities, including invasive species
• monitoring and removal, native plant restoration, and habitat maintenance

Complete Pennsylvania pesticide applicator certification to assist with the application of restricted use herbicides

• Assist with biological surveys, collect and analyze field data, and support

species monitoring efforts

• Engage with the local community through outreach events, volunteer

coordination, and environmental education

• Support refuge staff in planning and implementing conservation-related

projects

• Maintain records and assist with the preparation of reports and educational

materials

• Participate in public-facing programs to promote ecological awareness and

stewardship

Marginal Duties

• Maintain biological field equipment
• Prepare routine reports and documentation
• Help with habitat restoration
• Coordinate field logistics and schedules
• Develop scientific protocols materials
• Participate in safety checks

Required Qualifications:

Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a driving record background check; Ability to work independently and as part of a team; Ability/Willingness to work in unfavorable outdoor conditions including heat, humidity, rain, and uneven terrain; Applicants must be at least 18 years old; Participants must pass all

Pennsylvania Child Protection Clearances before they are cleared to start work with youth. This is a full-time position requiring an average of 40 hours per week. Work schedule can be flexible with some weekend work. The member is allotted approximately 2.5 weeks of time off over the course of the membership,

including federal holidays.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can

be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications:

Academic background or experience in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field; Previous fieldwork or membership experience; Familiarity with field equipment, data collection, and GPS; Interest in conservation, natural resource management, or environmental education; Personal vehicle recommended

but not required; Previous plant identification experience.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

On-site housing is available.

Rent will be deducted from the housing allowance.

Compensation:

Weekly Living Stipend: $700;

Monthly Housing Allowance: $700;

One-Time Travel Allowance: $1,100 (provided in the first paycheck to assist with relocation and use of a personal vehicle during the membership)

PLC (Public Land Corps) credit eligible.

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

• Recommended

Additional Benefits

Defensive Drive Training Interpretive Skills Off-Road Vehicle Safety AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.