Internship – Big Hole National Battlefield Natural Resources

Position Summary 

The National Park Service (NPS) is currently recruiting one Student Conservation Association intern to work within the Natural Resource program at Big Hole National Battlefield. The intern will support the Natural Resource program work through a field-oriented position with potential for some office work, as needed. The intern will have the opportunity to gain skills associated with natural resource conservation work and understanding the NPS mission. Work will be within the vegetation program focused on vegetation management, invasive species control, restoration work, and grounds maintenance. Daily tasks will consist of working on both and team and independently assisting Natural Resource program staff to support NPS vegetation management objectives at Big Hole National Battlefield. The position will be located at Big Hole National Battlefield (on-site housing provided).

Schedule 

April 14, 2025 – October 13, 2025 (Start date flexible)

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Natural Resource Duties and Responsibilities·

Field work: 80%

• Monitor, map, treat, follow up, and report cheatgrass, knapweed, and other non-native species across the park
• Collect native plant seeds
• Support monitoring for Lemhi penstemon, camas, sage, pollinator species, water quality
• Photomonitoring
• Mechanical thinning of conifers
• Restoration of burned areas (outplanting and seeding)
• Identify native and non-native plants
• Learn and understand herbicide application
• Implement invasive species treatments including herbicide application
• Field lead (liaison) for visiting field crews
• Perform simple and routine maintenance of grounds and landscaping.

Office/Planning Work: 10%

• Research and contribute to a variety of upcoming park vegetation projects: landscape/ turf plan, Visitor Center garden space
• Serve as liaison for various NPS units/departments
• Develop seed collection Standard Operating Procedure material
• Develop invasive plant treatment history and assessment report
• Develop seed collection database with park Natural Resource Specialist
• Work may include travel to other NPS park units
• Training Opportunities include: herbicide application (Montana State License, if interested), UTV training and various monitoring protocols (penstemon, camas, sage, pollinator, water).

Other Responsibilities 10%

• Assists other park programs with project work as needed.

Marginal Duties 

• Must be eligible to serve as an AmeriCorps Member.
• This includes, Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States.
• Being at least 18 years or older.
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Being willing to undergo National Service Criminal History Check, including criminal background, sex offender and FBI checks.

Required Qualifications 

• Ability to work outdoors in remote settings and inclement weather, carrying up to 50lbs on uneven ground.
• Willingness to work as a part of a team and/or independently in an outdoor setting.
• Willingness to carry and work with and near herbicides.
• Reliable · Strong focus on attention to detail
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Knowledge of Northwest natural resources and plants
• Coursework in biology, botany, natural resources, and a strong interest in conservation
• Previous experience using GPS units.
• Experience with basic land navigation equipment and/or methods
• Experience in presenting informational or educational talks to the public.
• Experience teaching and/or leading youth, conservation, reforestation and/or outdoor recreation skills

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Housing will be provided on site. Shared housing may be required.

Benefits

• $1,100- one time RT travel allowance
• $540 – weekly living allowance
• Duty Related Travel Budget of $2,000 (Receipts required for reimbursement)
• Housing on site provided
• All Weather Uniform Package
• Personal Program Advisor
• AmeriCorps Award (valued at $3,697) at fulfillment of position requirements and 900 hours

*All allowances subject to applicable federal, state, and local tax

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

Bear Safety

First Aid/CPR

Interpretive Skills

AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional

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 aged 35 or younger, at the start of the position. 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. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. SCA is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.