Position Summary 

The SCA member will assist biologists at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Michigan Ecological Services Field Office in East Lansing, MI with imperiled species conservation efforts. The member will gain experience with various aspects of implementing the Endangered Species Act. Work will include reviewing projects to identify best management practices to reduce impacts to listed species and aid in species recovery, assisting with research and habitat improvement projects, and contributing to wildlife and plant survey efforts (including pollinators, piping plover, and mussel surveys). The role includes coordination with multiple conservation partners and is primarily office-based with some field work and many educational/training opportunities.

Hosting Organization

Michigan Ecological Services Field Office

Carrie Tansy: carrie_tansy@fws.gov | (517) 351-2555

Michigan Ecological Services Field Office: Natural Resource Individual Placement

Location 

East Lansing, MI

Schedule 

December 7, 2026 - December 3, 2027

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Performs data analysis and prepares objective and complete written reports and other technical documents and makes recommendations
• Maintains records of accomplishments and provides accomplishment reports as required by supervisors
• Obtains, reviews, and evaluates reports, data, scientific literature, and other sources of information
• Assists with GIS analysis to identify potential restoration sites
• Supports preparation of technical summaries and reports related to imperiled species conservation and restoration efforts

Marginal Duties 

• Participates in imperiled species habitat improvement projects or surveys
• Interacts with conservation partners on imperiled wildlife and plant survey efforts (e.g., butterflies, piping plover, mussels)
• Supports habitat improvement activities such as invasive species control, nesting habitat enhancement, and native seed collection
• Assists with office, lab, and station duties including sample processing, equipment maintenance, data entry, and administrative tasks
• Responds to written, telephone, and in-person inquiries and supports staff as assigned

Required Qualifications 

• Valid driver’s license;
• Some experience with writing reports, data analysis, GIS, and field research;

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience working in a professional setting;

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

• Housing is not provided
• Housing is the responsibility of the individual

Compensation  

• Living Allowance: $650/week
• Relocation Allowance: $1,100 (paid once)
• Health insurance offered

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

Additional Benefits 

• Defensive Driving Training

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.