Scientists in Parks
Natural Resource Management Assistant - AmeriCorps
Scientists in Parks, Kayenta, Arizona, us, 86033
POSITION DETAILS
Position Title:
Natural Resource Management Assistant - AmeriCorps
Conservation Legacy Program:
Stewards Individual Placements
Site Location:
Chiricahua National Monument, Willcox, Arizona
Can this position be fully remote : No
Number of positions available : 1
TERMS OF SERVICE
Duration : 26 Weeks
(not flexible)
Flexible Start Date : Yes
Start Date : 02/01/2026
End Date : 08/02/2026
AmeriCorps Slot Classification : 900 hours - this is the minimum number of hours the selected candidate must serve.
BENEFITS Segal AmeriCorps Education Award
of $3,697.50 upon successful completion of position. Living Allowance
of $600.00 per week. Relocation Allowance
of $450.00 (distributed as a one-time lump sum with first paycheck) Student Loan Forbearance
if applicable (administered by MyAmeriCorps, directly).
Student Loan Interest Payments
if applicable (administered through MyAmeriCorps, directly).
APPLICATION TIMELINE
The position will close after receiving
60
applications, or at 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, 12 October, 2025, whichever occurs first. The review of applications will begin after Sunday, 12 October, 2025. Preference given to applicants who submit applications before Sunday, 12 October, 2025.
PURPOSE
This Natural Resource Management Assistant is an AmeriCorps position. This position supports the NPS policy requirement that every wilderness park "will conduct a wilderness character assessment, which includes identifying what should be measured, establishing baseline data, and conducting ongoing monitoring of trends... Once a baseline is established, tracking change and reporting on the trend in wilderness character should generally occur every five years" (Director's Order 41, Section 6.2 Wilderness Character). To effectively manage wilderness, managers must understand its current state and future trends. Wilderness managers have identified five qualities of wilderness character, one of which is Natural Quality. This quality is based the Wilderness Act stating that wilderness is "protected and managed so as to preserve its natural condition". This quality is degraded by intended or unintended effects of the actions of modern people on the ecological systems inside the wilderness. Although wilderness stewardship is truly interdisciplinary, there is a significant overlap with managing for the protection of park's natural resources. This project will utilize primarily natural resource datasets and analyze them through a wilderness lens.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
Chiricahua National Monument encompasses the Chiricahua National Monument Wilderness, a 10,290-acre landscape managed to preserve wilderness character as described in the Wilderness Act of 1964. This wilderness comprises 86% of the park unit and contributes to the protection of values that are fundamental to the park's purpose. In 2012, a wilderness character baseline assessment was conducted for the Chiricahua National Monument Wilderness. This baseline effort and resulting report were developed using guidance from "Keeping it wild: An interagency strategy to monitor trends in wilderness character across the National Wilderness Preservation System" (Landres et al., 2008). After over 13 years, there has not yet been any follow up assessment to determine current wilderness condition or trends over time. Filling this data gap is a priority for the park and will be the focus of this position position. A dedicated participant will compile existing data and collect new data for determining current wilderness character condition and trends. Wilderness character is a holistic concept based on the interaction of (1) biophysical environments primarily free from modern human manipulation and impact, (2) personal experiences in natural environments relatively free from the encumbrances and signs of modern society, and (3) symbolic meanings of humility, restraint, and interdependence that inspire human connection with nature. Taken together, these tangible and intangible values define wilderness character and distinguish wilderness from all other lands. The participant will learn to monitor, analyze, and develop management strategies for preserving wilderness character and values. The selected SIP SIP participant will serve in the division of Resource Management and will focus on the wilderness character monitoring and reporting for the Chiricahua National Monument wilderness area. Measures that will be considered in this project span all park divisions and will require an interdisciplinary approach and strong communication skills. These measures include but are not limited to non-native invasive plants, special status wildlife, air quality, water quality, wildland fire, human development, watershed health, precipitation, research activities, unauthorized/illegal activities, fencing, emergency response, law enforcement activities, visitor use, soundscapes, night sky quality, signage, trails, historic structures, and archeological sites. Additionally, the participant will assist as needed with various resource management tasks across the three SEAZ parks. Projects will be conducted independently and in small teams. The participant will also be given opportunities to participate in in-park field research led by NPS partners, go on educational field trips, and assist with public outreach events.
KEYWORDS : wilderness, data, trends, monitoring, reporting
DELIVERABLES
This complex project will address natural resource management and wilderness management data gaps while satisfying a high-priority statutory mandate for the park. The SIP participant will engage in meaningful service through an experience that fosters the next generation of park stewards. Position deliverables include (1) a final draft Wilderness Character Assessment Report for the Chiricahua National Monument Wilderness area, (2) datasets for under surveyed wilderness measures (3) a final presentation to SIP participantal park staff, and (4) wilderness webpage content for the official CHIR website. Additionally, support for resume development will be given to the SIP participant to prepare for a future career in land stewardship and resource management.
QUALIFICATIONS
United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien. Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award. Prior to starting the position, agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check for the employer of record, Conservation Legacy, and a separate government security background check for the NPS site location. The applicant must be available to participate for 26 Weeks in order to be considered and participate. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must have completed at least three years toward an undergraduate degree in biology, environmental science, natural resources, conservation or a related field. Ability to use ArcGIS and online GIS (ArcGIS Online, ArcPro, Google Maps) for developing, managing, and displaying spatial data. Applicant must have taken at least one course in GIS. Ability to use standard office software such as Excel, Word, etc. Good data organization skills and detail oriented. Good communication skills. Comfortable serving independently in the backcountry field or office with minimal supervision Comfortable serving in a team with a variety of backgrounds and skills. Applicants must have an interest in and ability to serve in rural locations. Must be physically able to hike long-distances, on- and off-trail with a pack in rugged terrain and extreme temperatures. Applicant must have a valid driver's license and be willing to operate government vehicles on a regular basis. Successful applicants will have an interest in wilderness and enjoy writing and data management. Prior experience recreating or working in Wilderness a plus Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid preferred but not required.
ADDITIONAL POSITION AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION
POSITION SETTING
The National Park Service's Southeast Arizona Group (SEAZ) includes Chiricahua National Monument, Coronado National Memorial, and Fort Bowie National Historic Site. The trio of parks are managed by one leadership team, headed by a superintendent. Chiricahua National Monument (CHIR) is located on the westside of the Chiricahua Mountains, a Sky Island range in the Southeastern portion of Arizona. CHIR is on lands of the Chiricahua Apache who suffered forced removal from their ancestral homes and persecution. The park is known for its stunning rock formations and rich cultural history. CHIR also encompasses designated Wilderness which continues beyond the park boundaries in adjacent Forest Service land. Elevation in CHIR ranges from 5124 - 7310 feet, and temperatures in the area range from 60-100 degrees in the summer and 0-50 degrees in the winter. The nearest amenities (groceries, etc.) are 35-45 minutes away and the nearest town of Willcox, Arizona (population 3700) is 37 miles away. Participants will serve primarily in an office setting at CHIR, and some Field projects will be required. Based on division-wide goals, there may be opportunities or requirements for travel to other park units in southeastern Arizona (Fort Bowie National Historic Site and Coronado National Memorial). Field projects involve strenuous hiking and potential exposure to physical and environmental hazards. The participant will receive training in backcountry hiking and safety. Prospective participants are advised that due to park proximity to the border with Mexico, illegal activity occurs in the form of drug smuggling and immigration. Employees must take extra precautions to assure the security of their equipment, vehicles, and persons. Border safety training will also be provided.
VEHICLE AND DRIVER'S LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Applicant must have a valid driver's license to drive a government vehicle. A personal vehicle is REQUIRED for this position. HOUSING
Park housing is available and will be provided at no cost to the participant.
The park will provide housing in a 2-bedroom/2-bathroom house at Chiricahua National Monument (CHIR). The house is shared with other seasonal staff, SIP participants, or visiting crew members. There may be times when the participant is the only occupant in the house. Applicants should be comfortable living alone or with roommates. Each bedroom is private and communal shared spaces may be mixed gender or mixed age. House contains a kitchen with amenities and shared laundry units are available nearby. Access to an on-site community gym is also available. Bedding (for queen-sized bed), towels, and toiletries will not be provided. Approximately 8 staff members plus their families make up the on-site community at CHIR and live in other housing units within the park.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online, all Scientists in Parks positions are listed at: https://conservation-legacy.breezy.hr/. Complete the application for this position, highlighting why you are interested in the position and how your background and experience will help you succeed in this position. Be prepared to upload your resume and unofficial transcript as part of completing the application questionnaire.
Once you begin applying for a position, the application must be completed in one sitting. You cannot save and return later to complete it. Applicants can apply for up to five Scientists in Parks positions per season. You need to complete a separate application for each position in order to be considered. You should receive a confirmation email after successfully submitting an application. Sometimes institutional email filters/settings can redirect or block emails related to the application. We recommend watching spam, junk, and promotional email folders in case your email service delivers messages there. Please visit How to Apply for additional resources and information about applying (i.e., learn what materials to have ready for applying, find a worksheet that previews application questions, etc.). Learn more about Scientists in Parks at: https://www.scientistsinparks.org/.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Conservation Legacy is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential functions. Some positions may require periodic overnight travel, non-traditional hours, ability to move across varied terrain, use program-specific tools and a range of technology on an infrequent or frequent basis. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions.
TIME REQUIREMENTS
This position is expected to serve full time each week, but exact service schedules may vary. Lunch breaks will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service hours. Member may be required to participate in national, state, or local service projects or events as part of their service term. ORIENTATION AND TRAINING
Orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities. Pertinent training from the NPS site location throughout the term of service. Free professional development webinars led by Conservation Legacy staff.
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
As an AmeriCorps member, performance will be evaluated on whether the member has completed the required number of hours, the member has satisfactorily completed assignments, and if the member has met other performance criteria that were clearly communicated at the beginning of the term of service.
Reporting requirements include, but are not limited to, bi-weekly timesheets and accomplishment tracking.
Stewards Individual Placements (Stewards), a program of Conservation Legacy, provides individuals with AmeriCorps service and career opportunities to strengthen communities and preserve our natural resources. Participants serve with federal agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofits to provide institutional capacity, develop community relationships, and support ecosystem health. Stewards in partnership with the Chiricahua National Monument will host a Natural Resource Management Assistant.
Conservation Legacy is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.
If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Scientists in Parks using the email address at the base of the home page, under "Questions? Contact us!"
Position Title:
Natural Resource Management Assistant - AmeriCorps
Conservation Legacy Program:
Stewards Individual Placements
Site Location:
Chiricahua National Monument, Willcox, Arizona
Can this position be fully remote : No
Number of positions available : 1
TERMS OF SERVICE
Duration : 26 Weeks
(not flexible)
Flexible Start Date : Yes
Start Date : 02/01/2026
End Date : 08/02/2026
AmeriCorps Slot Classification : 900 hours - this is the minimum number of hours the selected candidate must serve.
BENEFITS Segal AmeriCorps Education Award
of $3,697.50 upon successful completion of position. Living Allowance
of $600.00 per week. Relocation Allowance
of $450.00 (distributed as a one-time lump sum with first paycheck) Student Loan Forbearance
if applicable (administered by MyAmeriCorps, directly).
Student Loan Interest Payments
if applicable (administered through MyAmeriCorps, directly).
APPLICATION TIMELINE
The position will close after receiving
60
applications, or at 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, 12 October, 2025, whichever occurs first. The review of applications will begin after Sunday, 12 October, 2025. Preference given to applicants who submit applications before Sunday, 12 October, 2025.
PURPOSE
This Natural Resource Management Assistant is an AmeriCorps position. This position supports the NPS policy requirement that every wilderness park "will conduct a wilderness character assessment, which includes identifying what should be measured, establishing baseline data, and conducting ongoing monitoring of trends... Once a baseline is established, tracking change and reporting on the trend in wilderness character should generally occur every five years" (Director's Order 41, Section 6.2 Wilderness Character). To effectively manage wilderness, managers must understand its current state and future trends. Wilderness managers have identified five qualities of wilderness character, one of which is Natural Quality. This quality is based the Wilderness Act stating that wilderness is "protected and managed so as to preserve its natural condition". This quality is degraded by intended or unintended effects of the actions of modern people on the ecological systems inside the wilderness. Although wilderness stewardship is truly interdisciplinary, there is a significant overlap with managing for the protection of park's natural resources. This project will utilize primarily natural resource datasets and analyze them through a wilderness lens.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
Chiricahua National Monument encompasses the Chiricahua National Monument Wilderness, a 10,290-acre landscape managed to preserve wilderness character as described in the Wilderness Act of 1964. This wilderness comprises 86% of the park unit and contributes to the protection of values that are fundamental to the park's purpose. In 2012, a wilderness character baseline assessment was conducted for the Chiricahua National Monument Wilderness. This baseline effort and resulting report were developed using guidance from "Keeping it wild: An interagency strategy to monitor trends in wilderness character across the National Wilderness Preservation System" (Landres et al., 2008). After over 13 years, there has not yet been any follow up assessment to determine current wilderness condition or trends over time. Filling this data gap is a priority for the park and will be the focus of this position position. A dedicated participant will compile existing data and collect new data for determining current wilderness character condition and trends. Wilderness character is a holistic concept based on the interaction of (1) biophysical environments primarily free from modern human manipulation and impact, (2) personal experiences in natural environments relatively free from the encumbrances and signs of modern society, and (3) symbolic meanings of humility, restraint, and interdependence that inspire human connection with nature. Taken together, these tangible and intangible values define wilderness character and distinguish wilderness from all other lands. The participant will learn to monitor, analyze, and develop management strategies for preserving wilderness character and values. The selected SIP SIP participant will serve in the division of Resource Management and will focus on the wilderness character monitoring and reporting for the Chiricahua National Monument wilderness area. Measures that will be considered in this project span all park divisions and will require an interdisciplinary approach and strong communication skills. These measures include but are not limited to non-native invasive plants, special status wildlife, air quality, water quality, wildland fire, human development, watershed health, precipitation, research activities, unauthorized/illegal activities, fencing, emergency response, law enforcement activities, visitor use, soundscapes, night sky quality, signage, trails, historic structures, and archeological sites. Additionally, the participant will assist as needed with various resource management tasks across the three SEAZ parks. Projects will be conducted independently and in small teams. The participant will also be given opportunities to participate in in-park field research led by NPS partners, go on educational field trips, and assist with public outreach events.
KEYWORDS : wilderness, data, trends, monitoring, reporting
DELIVERABLES
This complex project will address natural resource management and wilderness management data gaps while satisfying a high-priority statutory mandate for the park. The SIP participant will engage in meaningful service through an experience that fosters the next generation of park stewards. Position deliverables include (1) a final draft Wilderness Character Assessment Report for the Chiricahua National Monument Wilderness area, (2) datasets for under surveyed wilderness measures (3) a final presentation to SIP participantal park staff, and (4) wilderness webpage content for the official CHIR website. Additionally, support for resume development will be given to the SIP participant to prepare for a future career in land stewardship and resource management.
QUALIFICATIONS
United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien. Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award. Prior to starting the position, agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check for the employer of record, Conservation Legacy, and a separate government security background check for the NPS site location. The applicant must be available to participate for 26 Weeks in order to be considered and participate. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must have completed at least three years toward an undergraduate degree in biology, environmental science, natural resources, conservation or a related field. Ability to use ArcGIS and online GIS (ArcGIS Online, ArcPro, Google Maps) for developing, managing, and displaying spatial data. Applicant must have taken at least one course in GIS. Ability to use standard office software such as Excel, Word, etc. Good data organization skills and detail oriented. Good communication skills. Comfortable serving independently in the backcountry field or office with minimal supervision Comfortable serving in a team with a variety of backgrounds and skills. Applicants must have an interest in and ability to serve in rural locations. Must be physically able to hike long-distances, on- and off-trail with a pack in rugged terrain and extreme temperatures. Applicant must have a valid driver's license and be willing to operate government vehicles on a regular basis. Successful applicants will have an interest in wilderness and enjoy writing and data management. Prior experience recreating or working in Wilderness a plus Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid preferred but not required.
ADDITIONAL POSITION AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION
POSITION SETTING
The National Park Service's Southeast Arizona Group (SEAZ) includes Chiricahua National Monument, Coronado National Memorial, and Fort Bowie National Historic Site. The trio of parks are managed by one leadership team, headed by a superintendent. Chiricahua National Monument (CHIR) is located on the westside of the Chiricahua Mountains, a Sky Island range in the Southeastern portion of Arizona. CHIR is on lands of the Chiricahua Apache who suffered forced removal from their ancestral homes and persecution. The park is known for its stunning rock formations and rich cultural history. CHIR also encompasses designated Wilderness which continues beyond the park boundaries in adjacent Forest Service land. Elevation in CHIR ranges from 5124 - 7310 feet, and temperatures in the area range from 60-100 degrees in the summer and 0-50 degrees in the winter. The nearest amenities (groceries, etc.) are 35-45 minutes away and the nearest town of Willcox, Arizona (population 3700) is 37 miles away. Participants will serve primarily in an office setting at CHIR, and some Field projects will be required. Based on division-wide goals, there may be opportunities or requirements for travel to other park units in southeastern Arizona (Fort Bowie National Historic Site and Coronado National Memorial). Field projects involve strenuous hiking and potential exposure to physical and environmental hazards. The participant will receive training in backcountry hiking and safety. Prospective participants are advised that due to park proximity to the border with Mexico, illegal activity occurs in the form of drug smuggling and immigration. Employees must take extra precautions to assure the security of their equipment, vehicles, and persons. Border safety training will also be provided.
VEHICLE AND DRIVER'S LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Applicant must have a valid driver's license to drive a government vehicle. A personal vehicle is REQUIRED for this position. HOUSING
Park housing is available and will be provided at no cost to the participant.
The park will provide housing in a 2-bedroom/2-bathroom house at Chiricahua National Monument (CHIR). The house is shared with other seasonal staff, SIP participants, or visiting crew members. There may be times when the participant is the only occupant in the house. Applicants should be comfortable living alone or with roommates. Each bedroom is private and communal shared spaces may be mixed gender or mixed age. House contains a kitchen with amenities and shared laundry units are available nearby. Access to an on-site community gym is also available. Bedding (for queen-sized bed), towels, and toiletries will not be provided. Approximately 8 staff members plus their families make up the on-site community at CHIR and live in other housing units within the park.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online, all Scientists in Parks positions are listed at: https://conservation-legacy.breezy.hr/. Complete the application for this position, highlighting why you are interested in the position and how your background and experience will help you succeed in this position. Be prepared to upload your resume and unofficial transcript as part of completing the application questionnaire.
Once you begin applying for a position, the application must be completed in one sitting. You cannot save and return later to complete it. Applicants can apply for up to five Scientists in Parks positions per season. You need to complete a separate application for each position in order to be considered. You should receive a confirmation email after successfully submitting an application. Sometimes institutional email filters/settings can redirect or block emails related to the application. We recommend watching spam, junk, and promotional email folders in case your email service delivers messages there. Please visit How to Apply for additional resources and information about applying (i.e., learn what materials to have ready for applying, find a worksheet that previews application questions, etc.). Learn more about Scientists in Parks at: https://www.scientistsinparks.org/.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Conservation Legacy is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential functions. Some positions may require periodic overnight travel, non-traditional hours, ability to move across varied terrain, use program-specific tools and a range of technology on an infrequent or frequent basis. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions.
TIME REQUIREMENTS
This position is expected to serve full time each week, but exact service schedules may vary. Lunch breaks will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service hours. Member may be required to participate in national, state, or local service projects or events as part of their service term. ORIENTATION AND TRAINING
Orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities. Pertinent training from the NPS site location throughout the term of service. Free professional development webinars led by Conservation Legacy staff.
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
As an AmeriCorps member, performance will be evaluated on whether the member has completed the required number of hours, the member has satisfactorily completed assignments, and if the member has met other performance criteria that were clearly communicated at the beginning of the term of service.
Reporting requirements include, but are not limited to, bi-weekly timesheets and accomplishment tracking.
Stewards Individual Placements (Stewards), a program of Conservation Legacy, provides individuals with AmeriCorps service and career opportunities to strengthen communities and preserve our natural resources. Participants serve with federal agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofits to provide institutional capacity, develop community relationships, and support ecosystem health. Stewards in partnership with the Chiricahua National Monument will host a Natural Resource Management Assistant.
Conservation Legacy is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.
If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Scientists in Parks using the email address at the base of the home page, under "Questions? Contact us!"