The US Fish and Wildlife Service Environmental Contaminants program in Fairbanks, Alaska is looking for 2 GS-4/5 and 1 GS-6/7 STEP interns for a project investigating the effects of contaminants on lesser scaup and other ducks in Interior Alaska.

Field camps will be at Minto Flats State Game Refuge and Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge, two of the most productive waterfowl breeding areas in North America. Work will involve nest searching and capturing, sampling, and banding arrival birds, broods, and nesting hens. The GS-6/7 will serve as a crew leader. Camps will be primitive and access will be by boat or float plane only.

Training, field gear, and food while in camp will be provided.

Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is situated to provide technicians with ample opportunities to explore Alaska’s wilderness during their off-time. Watercraft, aircraft, firearms, first aid and bear safety courses are provided. The employment period will be from early to mid-May through Jul or Aug. Salary will be from $14.92 to $26.89/hr based on GS level and experience. Students who qualify for STEP internships (http://www.fws.gov/midwest/careers/step.htm) are encouraged to apply before 15 Apr 2011. Applicants must be US citizens,enrolled in a degree seeking program, and taking classes fall 2011.

Positions will be filled as soon as qualified candidates are found.

Applicants should have previous work experience banding and collecting blood samples from waterfowl, a desire tolive in a remote field camp for extended periods, and the ability to maintain a positive attitude under difficult field conditions including hot and cold temperatures and long days hiking and dragging ropes through wet heavily wooded and brushy habitats occupied by mosquitoes, flies, and brown and black bears. Email resume, cover letter, unofficial transcripts, and 3 references to (EM: christopher_latty AT fws.gov).