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: Laguna Cartagena National Wildlife Refuge, PR 301 KM 5.1 Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico 00622 Work Schedule and Flexibilities: minimum 16 hours per week, In office (or work site) only Number of Positions: 2 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 24 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.
Laguna Cartagena National Wildlife Refuge experienced severe ecological impacts from the 143-acre Bike Trail Wildfire on July 9, 2026, resulting in 97% canopy loss across affected areas, exposed soil, and severe habitat degradation for wintering migratory waterfowl and resident waterbirds. Working in close coordination with Wildland Fire Services, a comprehensive Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) and Burned Area Rehabilitation (BAR) plans were approved.
The refuge requires biological field support to execute recovery monitoring and field logistics prescribed in these plans. This project directly aligns with Department of the Interior (DOI) and USFWS priorities to restore fire-impacted habitats, protect migratory bird species, and apply science-driven adaptive management across National Wildlife Refuge System lands.
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 junior college, 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.
Applications close on 2026-10-29.
There are 2 openings for this position.
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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