The Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Refuge Complex is recruiting for an internship opportunity for an individual with skills in GIS/Mapping and an interest in natural resource conservation to assist with the Complex’s vegetation monitoring activities. The Complex includes 8 National Wildlife Refuges (McNary, Umatilla, Cold Springs, McKay Creek, Conboy, Toppenish, Columbia and Saddle Mountain) and one National Monument (Hanford Reach), encompassing almost 300,000 acres in southern Washington and northern Oregon. The areas are primarily dominated by shrub-steppe habitats with natural and manmade wetlands, forested areas and rivers interspersed.

Restoration of native habitats is a critical component of the work we do. This is an o?ce based position with responsibilities that include: inputting, formatting and analyzing exisiting GIS/GPS data to produce mapping products that will inform management decisions, 80%; ?eld surveys to inventory and monitor native and non-native vegetation, 20%. Required: Valid driver’s license, ability to work independently, excellent work ethic, and completion of a college degree with a demonstrated competency in GIS mapping skills and analysis utilizing ArcGIS 10.1. Desired: Field experience or ability to operate independently or with a group in a natural environment setting and competancy using GPS Path?nder O?ce S.4 and Trimble Handheld GPS units.

* Location Description

The position will be located in south central Washington at the McNary National Wildlife Refruge in Burbank, WA. Burbank is a rural area within a 15 minute drive of the Tri-Cities which consist of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland and a population of 200,000. The arid and open shrub-steppe environment has plenty of sunshine and is enhanced by the Columbia, Yakima and Snake Rivers. Abundant recreational opportunities are available on the water and on the land. In addition, the mountains (1-2 hours) and the coast (4-5 hours) are nearby.

* Training Provided

Real world on-the-job training using existing skills in GIS programs and GPS ?eld units will be realized. Field identi?cation of native and non-native vegetation. ATV operation.

* Educational/Recreational Opportunities

Outdoor opportunities and facilities are abundant in the area with plentiful sunshine and three large rivers. Education and information are available on the Hanford Reach NM, Native Americans, geology, agricultural and wineries.

* Handicap Accessible?

Yes

Education, Training & Skills Expected

Earth Sciences
degree minor or extensive experience
Resource Management
some coursework or experience
Computer Science
some experience
Data Entry
competent without supervision
GIS
competent without supervision
GPS
some experience
Data Analysis
competent with supervision



*Expected Dates:* June 1, 2015 to November 29, 2015


*Site:* McNary National Wildlife Refuge


*Position ID:* PO-00657035


*Main Area of Focus:* Geographic Info Systems (GIS, includes GPS)


*AmeriCorps Eligible:* Eligible


*Driving Logistics:* Valid Drivers License Needed Personal Vehicle Required


*Housing or Stipend Provided?:* Yes


*Indoor/Outdoor:* Indoor


*US Citizenship:* Not Required