Natural Resources Job Board

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

Shoreline Education for Awareness (Private) | https://sea-edu.org/

Details
Application Deadline:
08/15/2025
Published:
07/29/2025
Starting Date:
after 11/3/2025
Ending Date:
after 8/31/2026
Hours per Week:
at least 40
Salary:
up to $2,000 per month
Education Required:
Some Undergraduate
Experience Required:
none
Location:
2127 SE Marine Science Drive (Newport, Oregon)
Tags:
Graduate Opportunities
Undergraduate Opportunities
Description
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)
 

How to Apply:


Email application packet(s) as a single PDF to khem_so@fws.gov by August 15, 2025.
To be considered, all packets must have all three items in a SINGLE PDF.
 
Application must include:
  • Cover letter that addresses the listed qualifications for the position
  • Resume documenting your work experience, education, skills, contact information, etc.
  • Contact information for three professional references (must include email and phone number)
 
The selection may occur before the closing date; we recommend applying early.
Candidates are required to participate in a phone or Microsoft Teams interview.
 

For More Information Contact:

Khem So: khem_so@fws.gov
Jennifer Herner-Thogmartin: 
Contact
Khem So
khem_so@fws.gov (preferred contact method)