Individual Placement - Biology Technician at Manassas National Battlefield Park

Student Conservation Association

6h • Onsite

About The Position

Are you passionate about conservation, wildlife, and public lands? This hands-on
placement at Manassas National Battlefield Park offers a unique opportunity to
gain real-world experience in natural resource management while working on
historic and ecologically significant landscapes. You'll take part in a variety
of exciting projects like habitat restoration, invasive species removal, bird
and vegetation surveys, and pollinator habitat creation. Members will be
mentored by experienced National Park Service staff, with opportunities to
shadow professionals in other park divisions and connect with partner agencies
like the Virginia Department of Forestry. Located near hiking and equestrian
trails, fishing ponds, and just a short drive from several recreational parks,
the nation’s capital, and Shenandoah National Park, the site offers both
professional growth and outdoor adventure. This is a standout opportunity to
build your skills, explore conservation careers, and make a lasting impact on
public lands.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 18 years old
• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Personal vehicle required for transportation to and from the site
• Ability to hike rough terrain and tolerate varying and potentially uncomfortable weather conditions
• Physical ability to carry a backpack sprayer for exotic plant control
• Basic computer skills for managing electronic data
• Willingness to work outdoors in field settings as part of a team
• Interest in conservation and land management.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with plant and bird identification
• Experience using GPS equipment and mapping natural features
• Basic knowledge of ArcGIS or similar mapping software
• Interest in pursuing a career in natural resource management or environmental science

Responsibilities

• Collect and manage field data related to natural and cultural resources.
• Use GPS equipment to map features and maintain accurate digital records.
• Create and update maps using ArcGIS software, following established protocols.
• Support habitat improvement projects, including restoration of native plant species.
• Assist with exotic/invasive plant control through herbicide application and mechanical methods.
• Conduct bird counts and support wildlife monitoring, including bird identification.
• Support pollinator habitat improvement efforts, including planting and habitat creation.
• Ensure safety protocols are implemented in daily field operations.
• Work closely with park staff and volunteers to support ongoing conservation projects.
• Assist with collecting photographic data to monitor project progress and success.
• Engage in occasional educational outreach or citizen science initiatives.
• Participate in team meetings and training sessions to enhance field skills and knowledge.
• Contribute to project planning and documentation as needed.

Benefits

• Living allowance: $625/week living allowance (pre-tax)
• Housing provided on-site
• $1100 one-time travel allowance (pre-tax) – Personal vehicle required
• Eligibility for a Public Land Corps Certificate for Noncompetitive Hiring Status if you are between the ages of 18–30
• Access to a national network of professional resources and a peer group
• Bear Safety
• Defensive Drive Training
• Interpretive Skills
• Off-Road Vehicle Safety

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED