What types of activities will the intern do:

Primary duties for this 5-month, 40hr/week internship will be working in the Interpretation and Education Division. Throughout the field season, the individual placement will assist with Acadia’s Peregrine Falcon Watch program (summer) and the Hawk Watch program (fall), largely by interacting with Park visitors. The individual placement will also assist in staffing the visitor center information desk. Every day provides an opportunity to work in a fast-paced public contact environment with the goal of assisting and educating visitors. This position involves 50-60% assisting with informal interpretation at peregrine falcon nesting and hawk observation sites. The applicant will assist with staffing the main visitor center information desk. Other duties may include assisting rangers on programs (i.e., bird programs); presenting basic interpretive talks; conducting roves and other forms of informal interpretation at site and field locations.

Skills and knowledge the intern will gain on the job include avian identification, their life histories, and their numbers and distribution in Acadia. Other skills gained will include developing and enhancing public speaking and writing skills, interpretive knowledge, and visitor service skills. Previous experience with raptors and /or bird identification is helpful. Work is primarily in the field with long periods of standing and walking on uneven terrain in all types of weather including intense heat in the summer and cold wind in the fall. A positive attitude, desire to work as a team player, willingness to learn, a strong desire to interact with the public on a daily basis, and the ability to work independently in the field are required.

Housing is provided for this position. Quarters are in a shared house, with common living, cooking, dining, and bathroom areas. Residents may have their own bedroom, but in some cases may need to share with a same-gender roommate. Residents provide their own bedding and kitchenware. Specialized items and appliances should be brought if needed.

Member Benefits:

• $450 - weekly living allowance
• $1,100 – roundtrip travel allowance (personal vehicle REQUIRED)
• AmeriCorps eligible - education award of approximately $2,817 upon successful completion of position and service of 675 hours or more
• *All allowances subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes*

Member Qualifications:

• Driver’s license
• Personal vehicle required.

Follow the link and search for "Raptor/Birding Participant." Apply here: Student Conservation Association

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