Individual Placement- Rare Species Survey Intern

The Student Conservation Association is hiring a Rare Species Survey Intern for a position at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD, from August 11 to November 28, 2025. Key responsibilities include conducting surveys for Diamondback Terrapins and Monarch butterflies, along with other environmental tasks. A driver's license and personal vehicle are required. The role offers a weekly living allowance and is not remote, as local candidates are preferred.
Position Summary

Spend your summer and fall in Maryland, playing a vital role at Naval Air Station Patuxent River as a Rare Species Survey Intern. You would perform crucial tasks in support of our mission.

Schedule

August 11, 2025 – November 28, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Conduct and coordinate volunteers for Diamondback Terrapin surveys and nest monitoring, 40%; Conduct surveys for and monitor Monarch butterflies, 35%.

Marginal Duties

Conduct acoustic bat surveys, 10%; Conduct Bald Eagle nest/nestling monitoring, 5%; Conduct submerged aquatic vegetation surveys, 5%; Assist with environmental education outreach, 5%.

Required Qualifications

Driver license required. Personal vehicle recommended for commuting. Monday-Friday schedule with an estimated 40 hours a week should be expected. Some evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required when volunteers are unable to cover terrapin shifts.

Preferred Qualifications

Local candidates are preferred due to lack of housing; however, non-local candidates will be considered if they can find their own housing. Training for all projects will be provided in-house. Emergent educational opportunities would be granted as appropriate to the position and as the internship workload allows.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

No housing available.

Compensation

Weekly living allowance: $350; One-time travel allowance: $1100; Eligible for a 450-hour AmeriCorps education award worth $1,956.35 , upon successful completion of service; Public Land Credits are available upon successful completion of this term for members ages 18-30.

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits

Off-Road Vehicle Safety
AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional

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.

Physical requirements and working conditions specific to the position are available in the full job description.