Description
2026 Invasive Plant Monitoring & Control Assistant
16 weeks (~May 11 – August 28, 2026)
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is looking for a qualified and enthusiastic individual to be our 2026 Invasive Plant Seasonal Assistant.
The technician will spend about 80% of their time working on mapping and controlling invasive species. Approximately 25 non-native invasive plant species will be mapped at Rachel Carson and Great Thicket NWR in southern Maine. Lands are surveyed on the ground using an established 50×50 meter grid system, and information about species presence, abundance, growth stage, and more, are recorded using ESRI Field Maps with an iPad. It is preferred that the intern have some experience managing invasives and collecting data in Arc GIS Online (AGOL).
Training in mapping invasives and plant identification will be provided. The technician will also spend considerable time working with volunteers to hand pull or cut invasive species in upland and wetland habitats.
The remaining 20% of the technician's time will be spent assisting with other biological work including piping plover management, assisting in our native plant greenhouse and restoring native habitats. The technician will work approximately 40 hours per week, with some weekend and holiday work required.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge provides an opportunity to build your biological monitoring and management skills by working with a team of experienced field biologists. Interns are an essential part of our operations, and if selected, you will become a dynamic member of our skilled and motivated team. For more information about our Refuge, see https://www.fws.gov/refuge/rachel-carson
Benefits:
- $600 weekly living stipend.
- Free co-ed bunkhouse style lodging on Rachel Carson NWR. Modern furnished facilities with laundry and Wi-Fi may be available.
- Professional development, training, and networking opportunities.
- Work vehicle and equipment provided.
How to Apply:
Email application package as a single .PDF file to HELEN MANNING (helen_manning@fws.gov) by February 8, 2026 that includes:
- Cover letter that addresses the listed qualifications for the position of interest.
- Resume documenting your work experience, education, skills, interests, contact information, etc.
- Contact information for three professional references (must include email and phone number for each reference).
- Unofficial copy of current college transcript.
Applications must be named with internship type and first/last name. RCNWR_Invasives_FirstLast
- To be considered, application packet must have all four items preferably combined into a SINGLE PDF file and follow the naming convention above.
- Candidates are required to participate in a phone/Microsoft Teams interview.
Requirements
General requirements:
- U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
- Valid state driver's license.
- Must be able to work independently; must have good observational skills and communication skills.
- Schedule flexibility, including weekend, holidays, and morning/evening shifts.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with identification of northeastern non-native invasive species.
- Experience using ESRI Field Maps and ArcGIS are preferred but not required.
- Applicants should have an academic background in ecology or related fields.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and in a group.
- Experience working in challenging field conditions.
- Flexible, independent self-starter personality.
