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.
Michigan Ecological Services Field Office
East Lansing, MI
December 7, 2026 - December 3, 2027
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;
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;
Valid driver’s license;
Some experience with writing reports, data analysis, GIS, and field research;
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.
40 per week
Housing is not provided;
Housing is the responsibility of the individual;
Living Allowance: $650/week;
Relocation Allowance: $1,100 (paid once)
Health insurance offered.
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Defensive Driving Training
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults.
Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces at various locations across the country.
After working with the SCA, our members emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.
As America’s most effective youth conservation service organization, the SCA transforms lives by empowering young people of all backgrounds to plan, act, and lead while they protect and restore our natural and cultural resources.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is dedicated to building the next generation of conservation leaders while inspiring lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
SCA's mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of our environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
