Make an impact while you learn. The Semester of Service Program offers students a volunteer project-based opportunity to support real Federal missions, gaining hands-on experience and valuable career-ready skills. The government-wide "Semester of Service" Student Volunteer Program enables Federal agencies to engage students in unpaid, project-based assignments of limited duration aligning with each agency's strategic priorities.
Location: Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office, 2177 Salk Avenue, Suite 250, Carlsbad, CA 92009 Work Schedule and Flexibilities: Hybrid (In office + telework eligible) Number of Positions: 1 Term: Spring 2027 (90 day term between mid-January and mid-June) This vacancy will be open until Thursday, October 29th, 2026 at 11:59pm ET or until 15 applications have been received. The vacancy will close on whichever day the first of these conditions are met.
If the application limit is reached on the same day the announcement opened, the open and close date will be the same. Candidates are encouraged to read the entire announcement before submitting their application packages. The student would assist the Southern California Coastal Program with implementing Coastal Program projects.
Initially the student would shadow and be trained by the supervisor on entry level tasks with the goal that the student can eventually conduct these tasks relatively independently. Much of the tasks involve field work so the student would need to be available to work in-person at project sites for at least several hours a day during normal workdays.
Student deliverables include: field work contributing to acres of habitat restored and maintained in coastal areas; and data and reports associated with habitat restoration projects. The government-wide "Semester of Service" Student Volunteer Program, as authorized under 5 U.S.C §31114 and 5 CFR Part 3085, enables Federal agencies to engage students in unpaid, project-based assignments of limited duration.
These assignments are designed to align with each agency's strategic priorities, offering participants practical experience within Federal operations while supporting the advancement of targeted initiatives.
To qualify, you must be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited college, university, or other accredited educational institution. You also must be in good academic standing as defined by your institution. Attach a copy of your transcripts to your application package for verification.
This is an unpaid volunteer experience. Student volunteers are not considered Federal employees for any purpose other than injury compensation and laws related to the Federal Tort Claims Act, and service is not creditable for leave accrual or other employee benefits. Professional experience: Meaningful project work with clear deliverables, regular supervision and federal mentorship.
Skill Development: Hands-on application of academic knowledge in real-world Federal operations. Career Exploration: Exposure to Federal missions, workplace culture, and potential career pathways. Protection and support: Coverage under Federal Tort Claims Act Workers' compensation for service-related injuries Structured onboarding and ongoing supervision
pathways_pmf@ios.doi.gov · 000-000-0000
This position is with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior.
The posted pay range is $0 – $0.
This position is eligible for telework.
Applications close on 2026-10-29.
This position is open under the 'Student' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-10-16 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov
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