This page includes job descriptions for: Visitor Services Volunteer, Grounds/Maintenance Volunteer, Visitor Services Assistant, Hunt Program Assistant, Turkey Hunt Program Assistant, and contact/application information for all other volunteer opportunities.
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Visitor Services Volunteer
Volunteers Needed: October - March
To Apply: Applications accepted March - July for the following winter. Fill out the Sacramento NWR Complex's Volunteer Applicationand submit to the Visitor Services Manager at sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Contact the Visitor Services Manager for more information at (530) 934-2801.
Position Title: Visitor Services Volunteer
Supervisor: Visitor Services Manager
Objective: The volunteer is responsible for interacting with youths and adults, facilitating the public’s enjoyment and understanding of the Complex and its natural resources and assist in operating a visitor services program for over 200,000 visitors per year.
Overview of Duties: The volunteer will work primarily on-site at the Sacramento, Colusa and Sacramento River NWR, providing visitors with information about the Complex and its resources. The volunteer will answer phones, assist with tours, provide interpretation, assist with environmental education programs, and complete various other duties as needed.
Duty Station: Sacramento NWR, Willows, CA
Qualifications:
• Understand the purpose of the refuge, its wildlife and visitor services programs, the National Wildlife Refuge System and the location of the refuge lands.
• Treat volunteer service as a serious responsibility.
• Complete training when needed, wear the refuge volunteer uniform properly, and report to duty on schedule.
• Take initiative to complete job duties with diligence and excellence.
• Be organized, motivated, flexible, and able to complete multiple tasks in a timely manner.
• If outside: be comfortable working in the field with possible exposure to ticks, stinging insects, poison oak, feral pigs, mountain lions, rattle snakes, and inclement weather conditions including hot or cold temperatures, walking on uneven ground and lifting and bending.
• Work on a team, assisting staff and visitors whenever needed, and approach duties with a positive attitude.
• Have strong interpersonal communication, public speaking, and writing skills.
• Are capable of leading group tours and use interpretation techniques and scientific knowledge to provide instruction on local ecosystems.
• Work effectively with people of various perspectives and temperaments.
• Have patience and tact with visitors and school groups—many visitors ask repetitive questions regarding the refuge and hunting
• Willingness to obtain knowledge and understanding of nature, common flora and fauna, and migratory birds that use the Complex.
• Are flexible with variety of duties and daily plans.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) vehicles including a 12-passenger van.
• Ability to or learn to operate computers for word processing and spreadsheets.
• Pass a background check which includes fingerprinting.
Major Duties:
• Reporting/Internal Communications:
1. *Participate in regular volunteer and visitor services meetings.
2. *Record hours and activities at the end of each work day.
3. *Assist with staff with day-to-day office or outside operations at the Complex.
• Outreach/Website:
1. Participate in fairs/events and mailings.
• Visitor Center/Bookstore:
1. Open and close the visitor center and bookstore.
2. Greet visitors and provide helpful, accurate information and materials.
3. Answer questions via phone and in-person, using good communication and public relations techniques.
4. Regularly fill and clean the brochure racks.
5. Maintain, refill, and clean bird feeders.
• Interpretation and Environmental Education:
1. Facilitate interpretive programs for visitors when needed.
2. Maintain sign-out log for loan items (i.e., binoculars).
3. Assist with school group presentations.
4. Research and present interpretive programs (bird tour, bird walk, etc).
5. Rove platforms and conduct informal interpretation.
6. Take photographs on refuges of wildlife, habitat, and visitors (with permission).
• Vehicle and Facility Maintenance
1. Wash and clean interior and exterior of visitor service’s vehicles weekly.
2. Fill vehicles with fuel when needed.
3. Clean and maintain public restrooms and trash on auto tour 1-2 times weekly.
4. Maintain trails and update kiosks.
5. Check for maintenance needed on viewing platform deck, scopes, rails, etc.
6. Drive to various refuges/units to check brochures, auto counter, etc.
7. Mow and weed eat around facilities. Paint, install signs, etc.
• Habitat Work
1. Work on the native plant garden (gardening, watering, weeding, planting plants, etc.)
2. Monitor plants and monarchs
3. Collect native plant seeds
4. Monitor wildlife for diseased/dead individuals. Will contact staff for pick up.
5. Trash pickup. Will be aware of any unsafe objects and hazards and will use gloves.
Other Duties:
1. Some volunteers will have opportunities to create and work on individually designed projects as needed or approved by staff. Possibilities include: educational displays, signs, lead programs, etc.
2. Potentially drive a truck pulling a trailer with supplies (large water jugs).
3. Volunteer for Altacal Audubon Society via the bookstore. Sell books and make change. Utilize Square Point of Sale system for sales.
Obligations:
• Willing to serve without monetary compensation.
• Safety: complete necessary training to perform assigned duties safely and efficiently. Follow all safety and health requirements including the use of personal protective equipment and instructions. Report unsafe conditions, concerns, or close calls to supervisor immediately.
• Transportation: provide own transportation to and from the primary duty station. May drive government vehicle while working as a volunteer but must possess a valid state driver’s license and follow all vehicle safety protocols including wearing a seat belt, not using a cell phone while driving and adhere to the 15 mph speed limit on refuge lands. Vehicle travel on the refuge is restricted to roads and levees unless other arrangements have been coordinated with refuge staff.
• Schedules: report for work on dates and times as agreed your supervisor. Work will be coordinated with supervisor to determine exact locations. Tour of duty will be set with supervisor from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. (7 hours 15 minutes) for 4 days per week (no federal holidays). The refuge reserves the right to alter work schedules in order to meet supervision needs and housing availability. Prefer applicants to start in October and work at least 4 months. Busy season is October– February. Visitor center is open on Saturdays and Sundays November – February and volunteers will cover weekend days.
• Cell phones: required to have a personal cell phone for emergencies and communication with supervisors.
• Refuge Access: use of refuge is permitted only for authorized purposes and times.
• Volunteer Behavior: will conduct personal affairs in a manner that does not adversely affect USFWS or their own integrity, reputation or credibility. Must adhere to the USFWS and California Department of Fish and Wildlife conservation regulations.
• Housing: if using government housing (RV spots are available for residential volunteers), must abide by the bunkhouse rules, including no pets. Must be willing to contribute a minimum of 30 hours per week for 3-4 months to receive government housing (RV space or bunkhouse).
• Computers: if using government computer, will follow the Rules of Behavior for Network Resources and agree to the responsibilities, security measures, and expected behavior outlined in that document. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
• Rule Enforcement: protect refuge resources and visitor safety by informing visitors of potential safety hazards, conducting programs in a safe and orderly manner and reporting safety hazards and law-breaking to supervisor or law enforcement. Volunteers will not engage in law enforcement.
• USFWS volunteers are not considered to be Federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefits. However, volunteer service is creditable work experience.
Criteria for Dismissal:
The following can result in immediate dismissal:
• Missing a work period without prior notification or constant absenteeism.
• Not completing or following the qualifications or obligations above.
• Disrupting the effectiveness, quality, or success of the refuge operations.
• Not following USFWS and/or Refuge specific regulations (such as closed areas) without prior permission from a supervisor.
• Misuse of government property including vehicles, keys or use of closed areas.
Housing: The Complex sometimes has space in the bunkhouse or RV pads (must work at least 3-4 months depending on the position). Limited housing available fall/winter. Available for internships and winter residential volunteers. RV pads have water, electric, and propane; we do not have sewage but do pay to get trailers dumped once per week. Bunkhouse has laundry, a double kitchen, wireless internet, and restrooms available for all residents.
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Grounds/Maintenance Volunteer
Volunteers Needed: late February - early June.
To Apply: Applications accepted August - November for the following spring/summer. Fill out the Sacramento NWR Complex's Volunteer Applicationand submit to the Visitor Services Manager at sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Contact the Visitor Services Manager for more information at (530) 934-2801.
Position Title: Maintenance Volunteer
Objective: The volunteer is responsible for assisting the field crew staff in maintaining the facilities (grounds, trails, etc.) to help visitors in their enjoyment and understanding of the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex’s natural resources. Looking for at least 1 person to work between late February – early June.
Overview of Duties: The volunteer will work primarily on-site at the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge assisting staff in maintenance operations. The volunteer will assist in cleaning, weeding, mowing, upkeep of signage and kiosks, tree trimming and various other duties as needed.
Duty Station: Sacramento NWR, Willows, CA (then travel to refuges when needed)
Qualifications:
• Ability to clearly understand the purpose of the refuge, its wildlife and visitor services programs, the National Wildlife Refuge System and the location of the refuge lands.
• A desire to treat volunteer service as a serious responsibility.
• An interest and ability to perform physically active work and have an interest or background in working on hunting and maintenance-type projects.
• Ability to work in the field with possible exposure to ticks, stinging insects, poison oak, and inclement weather conditions including hot or cold temperatures, walking on uneven ground, walk in water with waders, lift and bend. Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs., use a step ladder, and to perform physical active work.
• Complete training when needed, wear the refuge volunteer uniform properly, and report to duty on schedule.
• Takes initiative to complete job duties with diligence and excellence.
• Organized, motivated, flexible and able to complete tasks in a timely manner.
• Ability to work effectively with people of various perspectives and temperaments.
• Ability to work on a team, assisting staff and visitors whenever needed, and approach duties with a positive attitude.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) vehicles.
• Flexibility with variety of duties and daily plans.
• Able to pass a background check which includes fingerprinting.
Major Duties:
• Assist in cleaning and fixing signs, control wasps, paint gates, assist in spraying nonnative plants, etc.
• Assist in habitat management through various means such as tree trimming, weed eating, trail maintenance, using McCloud, etc.
• Wash and clean interior and exterior of visitor service’s vehicles.
• Fill vehicles with fuel when needed.
• Clean and maintain public restrooms and trash on auto tour 1times per week.
• Maintain trails and update kiosks.
• Check for maintenance needed on viewing platform deck, scopes, rails, etc.
• Drive to various refuges/units to check brochures, auto counter, etc.
• Work on the native plant garden (gardening, watering, weeding, planting plants, etc.)
• Possibly monitor milkweed plants and monarchs
• Collect native plant seeds
• Monitor wildlife for diseased/dead individuals. Will contact staff for pick up.
• Trash pickup. Will be aware of any unsafe objects and hazards and will use gloves.
Obligations:
• Willing to serve without monetary compensation.
• Safety: complete necessary training to perform assigned duties safely and efficiently. Follow all safety and health requirements including the use of personal protective equipment and instructions. Report unsafe conditions, concerns, or close calls to supervisor immediately.
• Transportation: provide own transportation to and from the primary duty station. May drive government vehicle while working as a volunteer but must possess a valid state driver’s license and follow all vehicle safety protocols including wearing a seat belt, not using a cell phone while driving and adhere to the 15 mph speed limit on refuge lands. Vehicle travel on the refuge is restricted to roads and levees unless other arrangements have been coordinated with refuge staff.
• Schedules: report for work on dates and times as agreed your supervisor. Work will be coordinated with supervisor to determine exact locations and access routes to avoid conflicts with other projects/programs. Tour of duty will be set with supervisor for approximately 3-4 days a week (no federal holidays). Exact times will be set with supervisor. The refuge reserves the right alter work schedules in order to meet supervision needs and housing availability.
• Cell phones: required to have a personal cell phone for emergencies and communication with supervisors.
• Refuge Access: use of refuge is permitted only for authorized purposes and times.
• Employee Behavior: will conduct personal affairs in a manner that does not adversely affect USFWS or their own integrity, reputation or credibility. Must adhere to the USFWS and California Department of Fish and Wildlife conservation regulations.
• Housing: if using government housing, must abide by the bunkhouse rules, including no pets. Must be willing to contribute a minimum of 24 hours per week for 3-4 months to receive government housing (RV space or bunkhouse). Occupants are expected to abide by the bunkhouse rules.
• Computers: if using government computer, will follow the Rules of Behavior for Network Resources and agree to the responsibilities, security measures, and expected behavior outlined in that document. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
• Rule Enforcement: protect refuge resources and visitor safety by informing visitors of potential safety hazards, conducting programs in a safe and orderly manner and reporting safety hazards and law-breaking supervisor or to law enforcement. Interns will not engage in law enforcement.
• USFWS volunteers are not considered to be Federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefits. However, volunteer service is creditable work experience.
Criteria for Dismissal:
The following can result in immediate dismissal:
• Missing a work period without prior notification or constant absenteeism.
• Not completing or following the qualifications or obligations above.
• Disrupting the effectiveness, quality, or success of the refuge operations.
• Not following USFWS and/or refuge specific regulations (such as closed areas) without prior permission from a supervisor.
• Misuse of government property including vehicles, keys or use of closed areas.
Housing: The Complex sometimes has space in the bunkhouse or RV pads (must work at least 3-4 months depending on the position). Limited housing available fall/winter. Available for internships and winter residential volunteers. RV pads have water, electric, and propane; we do not have sewage but do pay to get trailers dumped once per week. Bunkhouse has laundry, a double kitchen, wireless internet, and restrooms available for all residents.
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Visitor Services Assistant - paid internship
Term of Employment: mid-September - March (maximum of 28.5 weeks, working 40 hours/week).
To Apply: Send Resume with a Cover Letter to the Visitor Services Manager at sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov. Applications accepted May 1 – August 20 until position is filled. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Contact the Visitor Services Manager for more information at (530) 934-2801.
Position Title: Visitor Services Assistant; FWS Volunteer/California Waterfowl (CW) Employee
Supervisor: Education Coordinator (CW) and Visitor Services Manager (SNWRC)
Objective: The Visitor Services Assistant (VSA) is responsible for interacting with youth and adults as a representative of CW and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), facilitating the public’s enjoyment and understanding of the Complex and its natural resources. Assist in operating a visitor services program for over 200,000 visitors per year. The VSA will be a paid CW employee and a USFWS volunteer/intern.
Overview of Duties: The VSA will work primarily on-site at the Sacramento NWR, providing visitors with information about the Complex and its resources. The VSA will answer phones, assist with tours, provide interpretive services, assist with implementing environmental education programs, and complete various other duties as needed.
Duty Station: Sacramento NWR, Willows, CA (Glenn County)
Qualifications:
• Ability to understand the purpose of the refuge, its wildlife and visitor services programs, the National Wildlife Refuge System and the location of the refuge lands
• Ability to understand California Waterfowl’s goals and mission and communicate to others about hunting.
• Bachelor’s degree (completed, or in progress) in recreation planning, environmental education, natural resources management, wildlife management or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to work in the field with possible exposure to ticks, stinging insects, poison oak, feral pigs, mountain lions, rattle snakes and inclement weather conditions including hot or cold temperatures, walking on uneven ground, lifting, and bending.
• Willingness to obtain basic knowledge and understanding of nature, common flora and fauna and migratory birds that use the Complex
• Ability to work effectively with people of various perspectives and temperaments, and to treat all visitors with patience and tact.
• Ability to work on a team, assisting staff and visitors whenever needed and approach duties with a positive attitude
• Ability and motivation to complete job duties in an organized and timely manner.
• Strong interpersonal communication, public speaking and writing skills
• Ability to lead group tours and use interpretation techniques and scientific knowledge to provide instruction on local ecosystems
• Ability to operate computers for word processing, PowerPoint, poster creation, and spreadsheets.
• Ability to complete mandatory training as needed, wear provided uniform properly and report to duty as scheduled.
• Flexibility with variety of duties and daily plans.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive government vehicles, including a 12 passenger van and UTV/ATV’s (after required training).
• Able to pass a background check which includes DMV check and fingerprinting
Major Duties:
• Training:
1. Complete orientation/training with CW and USFWS staff
2. Job shadow staff to increase knowledge and skills in environmental education, public outreach and Refuge management
• Reporting/Internal Communications:
1. Participate in weekly meetings at the refuge and other meetings as needed
2. Record hours and activities at the end of each work day
3. Assist with staff with day-to-day office operations at the Complex
4. Operate office machines such as computer, fax, laminator, and copier and computer programs such as Microsoft Excel and Word
5. Communicate with CW supervisor routinely via phone or e-mail, completing weekly and monthly reports and weekly checking in
6. Submit bi-monthly timesheets for work pay on time and correctly to CW
• Visitor Center/Bookstore:
1. Open and close the visitor center and bookstore
2. Greet visitors and provide helpful, accurate information and materials
3. Answer questions via phone and in-person, using good communication and public relations techniques
4. Regularly fill and clean the brochure racks
• Interpretation and Environmental Education:
1. Conduct environmental education programs on and off-site for school groups with students in 1-6th grade in classroom sizes up to 35 kids. Follow state standards and curriculum.
2. Facilitate interpretive programs for visitors when needed.
3. Maintain Discovery Packs, Wild About Wetlands kits and binoculars.
4. Maintain sign-out log for loan items (i.e., mounts, videos, binoculars).
5. Rove platforms and conduct informal interpretation
6. Take photographs on refuges of wildlife, habitat, and visitors (with permission).
7. Operate the social media pages (Facebook and Instagram) for the Complex.
• Vehicle and Facility Maintenance:
1. Wash and clean interior and exterior of visitor service’s vehicles weekly
2. Fill vehicles with fuel when needed
3. Clean and maintain public restrooms and trash on auto tour 1-2 times weekly.
4. Maintain trails and update kiosks.
5. Check for maintenance needed on viewing platform deck, scopes, rails, etc.
6. Drive to various refuges/units to check brochures, auto counter, etc.
• Habitat Work:
1. Work on the native plant garden (gardening, watering, weeding, planting plants, etc.)
2. Monitor plants and monarchs
3. Collect native plant seeds
4. Monitor wildlife for diseased/dead individuals. Will contact staff for pick up.
5. Trash pickup. Will be aware of any unsafe objects and hazards and will use gloves.
Other Duties:
1. Some interns will have opportunities to create and work on individually designed projects as needed or approved by staff. Possibilities include: interpretive or educational displays, design signs, create new programs and write press releases.
2. Facilitate the photo-blind program.
3. Facilitate the phone log lists.
4. Participate in fairs and events.
Obligations:
• Safety: complete necessary training to perform assigned duties safely and efficiently. Follow all safety and health requirements including the use of personal protective equipment and instructions. Report unsafe conditions, concerns, or close calls to supervisor immediately.
• Transportation: provide own transportation to and from the primary duty station. May drive government vehicle while working as a volunteer but must possess a valid state driver’s license and follow all vehicle safety protocols including wearing a seat belt, not using a cell phone while driving and adhere to the 15 mph speed limit on refuge lands. Vehicle travel on the refuge is restricted to roads and levees unless other arrangements have been coordinated with refuge staff.
• Schedules: report for work on dates and times as agreed with supervisor. Work will be coordinated with supervisor. Tour of duty will be set with supervisor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for 5 days per week (no federal holidays), with the possibility of weekends or weekdays. The refuge reserves the right to alter work schedules in order to meet supervision needs and housing availability.
• Cell Phones: required to have a personal cell phone for emergencies and communication with supervisors.
• Refuge Access: use of refuge is permitted only for authorized purposes and times.
• Employee Behavior: will conduct personal affairs in a manner that does not adversely affect CW and USFWS or their own integrity, reputation or credibility. Will follow CW employee handbook policies and regulations, provided upon hire. Must adhere to the USFWS and California Department of Fish and Wildlife conservation regulations.
• Housing: if using government housing, must abide by the bunkhouse rules, including no pets. Must be willing to contribute a minimum of 30 hours per week for 3-4 months to receive government housing (RV space or bunkhouse).
• Computers: if using government computer, will follow the Rules of Behavior for Network Resources and agree to the responsibilities, security measures, and expected behavior outlined in that document. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
• Rule Enforcement: protect refuge resources and visitor safety by informing visitors of potential safety hazards, conducting programs in a safe and orderly manner and reporting safety hazards and law-breaking to supervisor or law enforcement. Interns will not engage in law enforcement.
• USFWS interns/volunteers are not considered to be Federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer intern service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefits. However, volunteer intern service is creditable work experience. In this case, since interns are CW employees, work experience credit is allowable only if the individual’s work experience program allows both credit and pay at the same time.
Criteria for Dismissal:
The following can result in immediate dismissal:
• Missing a work period without prior notification or constant absenteeism.
• Not completing or following the qualifications or obligations above.
• Disrupting the effectiveness, quality, or success of the refuge operations.
• Not following USFWS and/or refuge specific regulations (such as closed areas) without prior permission from a supervisor.
• Misuse of government property including vehicles, keys or use of closed areas.
Salary/Term: approximately $15.50 per hour, 8-hour workday, including potential weekends, work 40 hours per week. A returning VSA will be paid a higher rate. Occasional events may provide opportunity for overtime. Housing is an option provided on-site at Sacramento NWR.
Housing: housing is available on-site in the bunkhouse at the Sacramento NWR. Bunkhouse has laundry, a double kitchen, wireless internet, and restrooms available for all residents.
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Hunt Program Assistant - paid internship
Term of Employment: August - February, for a maximum of 40 work days. Ideally, the applicant would work 1-3 days a week with most activity in August.
To Apply: Send Resume with a Cover Letter to the Visitor Services Manager at sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov. Applications accepted May 1 – July 15 until position is filled. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Contact the Visitor Services Manager for more information at (530) 934-2801.
Position Title: Hunt Program Assistant; FWS Volunteer/California Waterfowl (CW) Employee
Supervisor: Visitor Services Manager
Objective: The hunt program assistant (assistant) is a representative of CW and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and responsible for assisting the visitor services specialist in maintaining the hunt area including signs, kiosks, check stations, etc. All of these resources assist visitors in their enjoyment and understanding of the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex’s management of its natural resources. The assistant will be a paid CW employee and a USFWS volunteer.
Overview of Duties: The assistant will work on-site at the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex assisting staff in daily visitor services hunting maintenance operations. The intern will assist in cleaning, weeding, painting, upkeep of signage and kiosks, maintaining hunt area blinds, hunting interpretive information and various other duties as needed.
Duty Station: Sacramento NWR, Willows, CA (Glenn County)
Qualifications:
• Ability to understand the purpose of the refuge, its wildlife and visitor services programs, the National Wildlife Refuge System and the location of the refuge lands.
• Ability to understand California Waterfowl’s goals and mission and communicate to others about hunting.
• Bachelor’s degree (completed, or in progress) in recreation planning, environmental education, natural resources management, wildlife management or a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of waterfowl hunting is preferred.
• Ability to work in the field with possible exposure to ticks, stinging insects, poison oak, and inclement weather conditions including hot or cold temperatures, walking on uneven ground, walk in water with waders, lift and bend. Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs., use a stepladder and perform physically active work.
• Interest or background in working on habitat, hunting and/or maintenance-type projects.
• Willingness to obtain basic knowledge and understanding of nature and common migratory birds that use the refuge.
• Ability to work effectively with people of various perspectives and temperaments, and to treat all visitors with patience and tact.
• Ability to work on a team, assisting staff and visitors whenever needed and approach duties with a positive attitude.
• Ability and motivation to complete job duties in an organized and timely manner.
• Strong interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
• Ability to operate computers for word processing and spreadsheets.
• Ability to complete mandatory training as needed, wear provided uniform properly and report to duty as scheduled.
• Flexibility with variety of duties and daily plans.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive government vehicles, including a 12 passenger van and UTV/ATV’s (after required training).
• Able to pass a background check that includes fingerprinting and DMV check.
Major Duties:
• Training:
1. Complete orientation and training with CW and USFWS staff.
• Reporting/Internal Communications:
1. Participate in public use weekly meetings at the refuge and other meetings as needed.
2. Record hours and activities at the end of each work day.
3. Assist staff with day-to-day office operations at the Complex.
4. Operate office machines such as computer, fax, laminator, copier and computer programs such as Microsoft Excel and Word.
5. Participate in weekly reports and monthly reports and weekly check-ins with CW supervisor.
6. Submit bi-monthly timesheets for work pay to CW on time and correctly.
• Hunting Program:
1. Collect and enter bird harvest information into database.
2. Assist hunt coordinator with facilitating the junior hunts.
3. Update hunter information kiosks.
4. Interact with hunters and check station staff at check stations.
5. Maintain hunt signs.
6. Clean and maintain disabled hunt blinds.
• Vehicle and Facility Maintenance:
1. Wash and clean interior and exterior of visitor service’s vehicles weekly
Obligations:
• Safety: complete necessary training to perform assigned duties safely and efficiently. Follow all safety and health requirements including the use of personal protective equipment and instructions. Report unsafe conditions, concerns, or close calls to supervisor immediately.
• Transportation: provide own transportation to and from the primary duty station. May drive government vehicle while working as a volunteer but must possess a valid state driver’s license and follow all vehicle safety protocols including wearing a seat belt, not using a cell phone while driving and adhere to the 15 mph speed limit on refuge lands. Vehicle travel on the refuge is restricted to roads and levees unless other arrangements have been coordinated with refuge staff.
• Schedules: report for work on dates and times as agreed with supervisor. Work will be coordinated with supervisor to determine exact locations and access routes to avoid conflicts with other projects/programs. Tour of duty will be set with supervisor for 1-3 days per week and 8 hour work days (no federal holidays). Exact times will be set with supervisor after being hired. The refuge reserves the right to alter work schedules in order to meet supervision needs and housing availability.
• Cell Phones: required to have a personal cell phone for emergencies and communication with supervisors.
• Refuge Access: use of refuge is permitted only for authorized purposes and times.
• Employee Behavior: will conduct personal affairs in a manner that does not adversely affect CW and USFWS or their own integrity, reputation or credibility. Will follow CW employee handbook policies and regulations, provided upon hire. Must adhere to the USFWS and California Department of Fish and Wildlife conservation regulations.
• Housing: if using government housing, must abide by the bunkhouse rules, including no pets. Must be willing to contribute a minimum of 30 hours per week for 3-4 months to receive government housing (RV space or bunkhouse).
• Computers: if using government computer, will follow the Rules of Behavior for Network Resources and agree to the responsibilities, security measures, and expected behavior outlined in that document. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
• Rule Enforcement: protect refuge resources and visitor safety by informing visitors of potential safety hazards, conducting programs in a safe and orderly manner and reporting safety hazards and law-breaking to supervisor or law enforcement. Interns will not engage in law enforcement.
• USFWS interns/volunteers are not considered to be Federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefits. However, volunteer service is creditable work experience.
Criteria for Dismissal:
The following can result in immediate dismissal:
• Missing a work period without prior notification or constant absenteeism.
• Not completing or following the qualifications or obligations above.
• Disrupting the effectiveness, quality or success of the refuge operations.
• Not following USFWS and/or refuge specific regulations (such as closed areas) without prior permission from a supervisor.
• Misuse of government property including vehicles, keys or use of closed areas.
Housing: housing is available on-site in the bunkhouse at the Sacramento NWR. Bunkhouse has laundry, a double kitchen, wireless internet, and restrooms available for all residents.
____________________
Turkey Hunt Program Assistant - paid internship
Term of Employment: March - May
To Apply: Send Resume, Cover Letter, and Professional References to the Visitor Services Manager at sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov. Applications accepted Jan 2 – Jan 27 or until position is filled. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Contact the Visitor Services Manager for more information at (530) 934-2801.
Position Title: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) Hunt Program Assistant Volunteer; National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Contractor
Supervisor: Visitor Services Manager
Objective: The hunt program assistant (assistant) is a representative of NWTF and the USFWS and is responsible for assisting the visitor services specialist in maintaining and managing the hunt areas of the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex (NWRC). The intent of this position is to assist visitors in their enjoyment and understanding of the Sacramento NWRC’s natural resources and management. The assistant will be a paid contractor of the NWTF and a USFWS volunteer.
Overview of Duties: The assistant will work on-site at the Sacramento NWRC assisting staff in daily visitor services hunting maintenance operations, invasive weed management, and staffing the hunter check stations on weekends during the spring turkey season. The assistant will assist in cleaning, weeding, painting, upkeep of signage and kiosks, maintaining hunt area blinds, hunting interpretive information, herbicide applications, and various other duties as needed.
Duty Station: Sacramento NWR, Willows, CA (Glenn County)
Qualifications:
• Ability to understand the purpose of Sacramento NWRC, its wildlife and visitor services programs, the National Wildlife Refuge System, and the location of the refuge lands.
• Ability to understand the National Wild Turkey Federations goals and mission and communicate to others about hunting.
• Bachelor’s degree (completed, or in progress) in recreation planning, environmental education, natural resources management, wildlife management or a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of turkey hunting and conservation is preferred.
• Ability to work in the field with possible exposure to ticks, stinging insects, poison oak, and inclement weather conditions including hot or cold temperatures, walking on uneven ground, walking in water with waders, lift and bend. Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs., use a stepladder and perform physically active work.
• Interest or background in working on habitat, hunting and/or maintenance-type projects.
• Willingness to obtain basic knowledge and understanding of nature and common migratory birds and other wildlife that use the refuge.
• Ability to work effectively with people of various perspectives and temperaments, and to treat all visitors with patience and tact.
• Ability to work on a team, assisting staff and visitors whenever needed and approach duties with a positive attitude.
• Ability and motivation to complete job duties in an organized and timely manner.
• Ability to operate computers for word processing and data entry (spreadsheets).
• Ability to complete mandatory training as needed, wear provided uniform properly and report to duty as scheduled.
• Flexibility with variety of duties and daily plans.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive government vehicles, including a 12 passenger van and UTV/ATV’s (after required training).
• Able to pass a background check that includes fingerprinting and DMV check.
Major Duties:
• Training:
1. Complete orientation and training with USFWS staff.
2. Complete ATV/UTV training.
3. Complete herbicide applicator training.
• Reporting/Internal Communications:
1. Participate in public use weekly meetings at the refuge and other meetings as needed.
2. Record hours and activities at the end of each work day.
3. Operate office machines such as computer, fax, laminator, copier and computer programs such as Microsoft Excel and Word.
4. Participate in weekly reports and monthly reports and weekly check-ins with NWTF supervisor.
5. Submit bi-monthly timesheets for work pay to NWTF on time and correctly.
• Hunting Program:
1. Collect and enter bird harvest information into database.
2. Assist hunt coordinator with facilitating the weekend turkey hunts at Sacramento and Delevan NWRs.
3. Update hunter information kiosks.
4. Interact with hunters and volunteers.
5. Maintain hunt signs.
6. Clean, maintain, and set-up hunt blinds.
• Vehicle and Facility Maintenance:
1. Wash and clean interior and exterior of visitor service’s vehicles weekly
2. Fill vehicles with fuel when needed
3. Clean and maintain public restrooms and trash
Obligations:
• Safety: complete necessary training to perform assigned duties safely and efficiently. Follow all safety and health requirements including the use of personal protective equipment and instructions. Report unsafe conditions, concerns, or close calls to supervisor immediately.
• Transportation: provide own transportation to and from the primary duty station. May drive government vehicle while working as a volunteer but must possess a valid state driver’s license and follow all vehicle safety protocols including wearing a seat belt, not using a cell phone while driving and adhere to the 15 mph speed limit on refuge lands. Vehicle travel on the refuge is restricted to roads and levees unless other arrangements have been coordinated with refuge staff.
• Schedules: report for work on dates and times as agreed with supervisor. Work will be coordinated with supervisor to determine exact locations and access routes to avoid conflicts with other projects/programs. Tour of duty will be set with supervisor for 4-5 days per week and 8-10 hour work days (no federal holidays). Exact times will be set with supervisor after being hired. Assistant will be required to work every weekend during the regular spring turkey hunting season. Work on weekends are approximately March 21 – May 17. The refuge reserves the right to alter work schedules in order to meet supervision needs.
• Cell Phones: required to have a personal cell phone for emergencies and communication with supervisors.
• Refuge Access: use of refuge is permitted only for authorized purposes and times.
• Employee Behavior: will conduct personal affairs in a manner that does not adversely affect NWTF and USFWS or their own integrity, reputation or credibility. Will follow NWTF employee handbook policies and regulations, provided upon hire. Must adhere to the USFWS and California Department of Fish and Wildlife conservation regulations.
• Housing: if using government housing, must abide by the bunkhouse rules, including no pets. Must be willing to contribute a minimum of 30 hours per week for 3-4 months to receive government housing (RV space or bunkhouse).
• Computers: if using government computer, will follow the Rules of Behavior for Network Resources and agree to the responsibilities, security measures, and expected behavior outlined in that document. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
• Rule Enforcement: protect refuge resources and visitor safety by informing visitors of potential safety hazards, conducting programs in a safe and orderly manner and reporting safety hazards and law-breaking to supervisor or law enforcement. Interns will not engage in law enforcement.
• USFWS interns/volunteers are not considered to be Federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefits. However, volunteer service is creditable work experience.
Criteria for Dismissal:
The following can result in immediate dismissal:
• Missing a work period without prior notification or constant absenteeism.
• Not completing or following the qualifications or obligations above.
• Disrupting the effectiveness, quality or success of the refuge operations.
• Not following USFWS and/or refuge specific regulations (such as closed areas) without prior permission from a supervisor.
• Misuse of government property including vehicles, keys or use of closed areas.
Housing: housing is available on-site in the bunkhouse at the Sacramento NWR. Bunkhouse has laundry, a double kitchen, wireless internet, and restrooms available for all residents.
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Other Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers Needed: year-round. The Complex has year-round opportunities for volunteering, whether watering the native plant gardens or helping answer phones.
To Apply: Contact the Visitor Services Manager for specific opportunities at (530) 934-2801. Fill out the Sacramento NWR Complex's Volunteer Applicationand submit to the Visitor Services Manager at sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov.
