Individual Placement - Rare Species Survey at Naval Air Station Patuxent River

Position Summary 

Spend your summer and fall in Maryland, playing a vital role at Naval Air Station Patuxent River as a Rare Species Survey Intern. You would perform crucial tasks in support of our mission.

 

Location 

Patuxent River, MD

 

Schedule 

16 Weeks

August 17, 2026 - December 5, 2026

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Conduct and coordinate volunteers for Diamondback Terrapin surveys and nest monitoring, 40%; Conduct surveys for and tag Monarch butterflies, 35%.

 

Marginal Duties 

Conduct acoustic bat surveys, 10%; Conduct Bald Eagle nest/nestling monitoring, 5%; Conduct submerged aquatic vegetation surveys, 5%; Assist with environmental education outreach, 5%.

 

Required Qualifications 

Driver license required. Personal vehicle recommended for commuting. Monday-Friday schedule with an estimated 40 hours a week should be expected. Some evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required when volunteers are unable to cover terrapin shifts.

 

Preferred Qualifications 

Local candidates are preferred due to lack of housing; however, non-local candidates will be considered if they can find their own housing. Ideal candidate can work with minimal supervision in areas with poisonous plants and animals, allergens, temperature extremes, and inclement weather. Training for all projects will be provided in-house. Emergent educational opportunities would be granted as appropriate to the position and as the internship workload allows.

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

No housing available.

 

Compensation

Weekly living allowance: $600

Travel Allowance $1,100 (one time allowance to cover travel expenses to/from the site).

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

 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

 

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Driving Training

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional

 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.