Ecology Assistant AmeriCorps

POSITION DETAILS

• Position (s): 4440
• Position Title:
  
  Ecology Assistant - Ameri Corps
• Conservation Legacy Program:
  Scientists in Parks, Stewards Individual Placements
• Site
  
  Location:
  
  Katmai National Park and Preserve, Kenai Fjords National Park, Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Anchorage, Alaska
• Number of positions available: 1

• Duration: 52 Weeks (not flexible)
• Flexible
  
  Start Date:
  
  Yes
• Start Date:
  
  5/4/2026
• End Date: 5/3/2027
• Ameri Corps Slot Classification: 1700 hours - this is the minimum number of hours the selected candidate must serve throughout the duration of their position

• Segal Ameri Corps Education Award: $7,395.00 upon successful completion of position
• Weekly Living Allowance: $700.00 per week, fixed rate
• Relocation Allowance: $1,100.00 (distributed as a one-time lump sum with first paycheck)
• Student Loan Forbearance if applicable (administered by My Ameri Corps , directly)
• Student Loan Interest Payments if applicable (administered through My Ameri Corps , directly)
• For 52-week positions only:
  Free Healthcare Coverage (opt in);
  Childcare Coverage (opt in)

Preference given to applicants who submit applications before Sunday, February 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed after the Final date to receive applications passes. Positions will close after receiving 60 complete applications, or at 11:59 p.m. EST on February 15, 2026, whichever occurs first.

Marine bird and mammals, boat-based surveys, long-term monitoring, Gulf of Alaska, nearshore ecosystems

This Ecology Assistant is an Ameri Corps position. Marine upper trophic levels, including birds and mammals, are indicators of ecosystem structure and function, and highly sought-after viewing subjects for coastal park visitors. Understanding differences in abundance and distribution of marine birds and mammals through time, across seasons, and among parks allows evaluation of (1) the scale and consequences of changes in marine ecosystems, (2) geographic differences in habitat suitability for various species, (3) seasonal changes in habitat value among parks, and (4) trends in abundance of valued species.

To achieve these benefits, analyses of existing nearshore marine bird and mammal survey data from KEFJ and KATM are proposed, where surveys have been conducted since 2006. These data and analyses will provide a regional perspective on the specific dynamics occurring within each park to help park managers understand observed variation and potential drivers.

The SIP participant will become part of the SWAN I&M nearshore team. Primary tasks include data collection along the Gulf of Alaska coastlines. The role involves monitoring nearshore ecosystems, understanding predator–prey dynamics, and analyzing survey data to examine population dynamics. For a 52-week position, the field portion may transition to data proofing, analysis, and reporting. The participant will support the marine bird and mammal portion of the project and examine variation in community structure across parks and seasons.

Specific tasks include assembling existing nearshore survey data (2006–2025/26) for KEFJ and KATM, supporting skiff-based nearshore surveys, and leading analyses of differences in community composition across parks and seasons.

Deliverables include an agency report, a peer-reviewed publication, and standardized data formats distributed to the parks and available on relevant databases.

This project will result in an agency report and a peer-reviewed publication describing spatio-temporal variation in nearshore marine bird and mammal communities. Data will be assembled in a consistent format, distributed to the parks, and made publicly available on appropriate sites.

• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident.
• High school diploma or equivalent; or commitment to obtain one prior to using the education award.
• Eligibility information and background checks as required by the employer of record and host site.
• Must be available to participate for the entire 52 weeks.

A background in ecology with emphasis on predator/prey…