Wildlife Biology and Data Management Internship (USFWS, Pacific Region)

Shoreline Education for Awareness, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Pacific Region National Wildlife Refuge System’s Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) Program, is seeking a motivated intern to help deliver evidence-based wildlife conservation across 25 refuges in western Washington and Oregon. The intern will collaborate directly with professional wildlife biologists, data managers, and refuge managers, gaining hands-on experience in ecological monitoring, data management, and reporting to inform critical conservation decisions. This position includes both field work and office-based tasks, giving a good balance of practical and analytical experience. The intern will receive training on various ecological survey protocols, personal safety, and core software tools (e.g., ESRI ArcGIS suite, R, Python). 

Duration: ~November 3, 2025–August 31, 2026 (10 months, flexible start date) 

Duty station: Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Newport, Oregon 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Survey and Protocol Development: Assist in developing survey designs by conducting scientific literature reviews, creating conceptual ecological models, and drafting clear, standardized survey protocols and documentation
• Field Data Collection: Conduct field surveys and collect biological data (e.g., waterbirds, seabirds, vegetation) at various refuges using established procedures, including visual surveys, vegetation quadrats, and GPS mapping
• Data Quality Management: Perform quality assurance and quality control procedures, including data verification, data entry accuracy checks, cross-referencing field notes with digital datasets, and maintaining clear documentation in the field and office
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Conduct ecological data analyses, interpret findings, produce figures and tables, and contribute to reports and presentations
• Metadata and Data Mobilization: Create metadata and ensure data standards compliance and readiness for reuse
• Legacy Data Preservation: Inventory, assess, and prioritize legacy ecological survey records for preservation and sharing
• Collaboration and Logistics: Collaborate with regional and field staff on project planning, logistics, and safety

Qualifications:

• Some undergraduate coursework in biology, natural resources, data management, or related field is required; Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc. or B.A.) preferred
• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Valid state driver’s license
• Ability to work both independently and on multidisciplinary teams
• Strong observational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to travel throughout western Washington and Oregon and work variable schedules, including morning/evening shifts
• Familiarity with GIS and statistical software (e.g., ArcGIS and R) preferred

 Benefits:

• $2,000 monthly living stipend
• Free shared, co-ed bunkhouse style lodging in Lincoln City, Oregon with laundry, wi-fi, utilities and more included (sorry, no pets)
• Mentorship from experienced USFWS biologists and data managers
• Professional development, training, and networking opportunities
• Public Land Corps hiring authority eligibility for future employment opportunities with federal agencies
• Work vehicle and equipment provided (Intern is responsible for personal transportation needs)