Volunteer Activities
• Campground Host
• Visitor Information

Photo Courtesy of FS

We are looking for an outgoing individual or couple to help at two of our less developed campgrounds . The Ocala is a popular winter designation. We are looking for someone who can come on board mid-September or early October 2019.

Campground hosts live on site and get water provided weekly along with use of a generator for power for a volunteer provided RV in exchange for performing various duties.

Hosts first and foremost represent the Forest Service and may be the first representative of the forest that a camper will encounter. Hosts must provide a pleasant and professional image to the visitors.

Hosts also help maintain the campground by assisting with a variety of tasks which may include mowing, trash, restrooms- tasks vary by campground. Campground hosts also log in campers and provide Forest Service employees information to ensure compliance is maintained.

Some campgrounds have day use areas that the host also monitors.

Please provide (or have available) at least 3 references and their contact information.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: The Ocala National Forest does not allow host to volunteer in tents. Hosts at Hopkins will be provided water via a water buffalo.

Volunteer Activities
• Construction/Maintenance
• Other
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Visitor Information

Photo Courtesy of FS

Assist Forest Service staff and volunteers with the maintenance of recreation areas on the forest. Recreation maintenance personnel help keep our recreation areas beautiful and safe for our visitors. Duties include mowing, trash disposal, painting, restrooms, carpentry, and pressure washing. Recreation maintenance is a great way to see all of the recreation areas on the forest. Full hook-up sites available in exchange for 24 hours per week.

THIS OPPORTUNITY REQUIRES A 6 MONTH COMMITMENT. Please do not apply if you cannot meet a 6 month commitment.

Please provide (or have available) at least 3 references and their contact information.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads

Volunteer Activities
• Construction/Maintenance
• Other
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Visitor Information
• Back Country/Wilderness
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of FS

Assist with the construction and/or maintenance of the Ocala National Forest Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trails; work alongside Forest Service employees in constructing, signing and maintaining 187 miles of OHV trails. Spend some time at one of our OHV trailheads and help riders learn about the over 200 miles of OHV trails. Staff provides riders with information about the trails, the fee system, rider behavior, trail safety and required equipment.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Concrete RV pads with full hook ups.

Volunteer Activities
• Campground Host
• Other
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Visitor Information
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Main Goals for This Position to Accomplish

Campground hosts positively interact with visitors to the mutual benefit of both visitors and park staff. Volunteers are integral to the operation of this park and they support and promote the mission of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Brief description of Work to be performed

Campground hosts are representatives of the NPS and assist the park by:

• Greeting visitors in a professional manner
• Roving the 200 site campground on foot twice per day
• Answering questions 
• Providing information about the park and local area
• Helping visitors find a campsite
• Explaining and following all park regulations
• Performing light maintenance work around the campground
• Cleaning fire pits
• Caring for park resources

Campground hosts should never attempt to enforce park regulations. Your role is to educate visitors about regulations before they are broken. Use good judgment and do not provoke conflict. Notify visitor center staff immediately of any problems or violations, or call Gulf Breeze Dispatch at (850) 934-4050.

Length of Commitment

Campground hosts work five days per week and a minimum of 32 hours per person, per week (not to exceed 40 hours).

Length of stay is a four-month commitment during specified time schedules:

• April 1st - July 31st
• August 1st - November 30th
• December 1st - March 31st

Tools, Equipment, and Vehicles to be Operated

Occasional golf cart operation in support of light maintenance duties and after completing park training. No other vehicles, tools or equipment will be operated.

Location Where Work Will be Performed

You will reside and work at the Ft. Pickens Campground in Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida District.

Physical Requirements of Work

The work is walking approximately four miles a day, standing, sitting, or bending with some light lifting on an occasional basis.

Benefits to the Volunteer

Items provided to campground hosts will be uniform shirts, cap and name tag, keys if appropriate, as well as a campsite with full hookups. After working 250 hours all volunteers are eligible for an Annual Volunteer Pass valid at all Federal Fee Sites. NPS staff at the Ft. Pickens Campground Office will provide supervision and training in campground registration procedures, rule, regulations and host responsibilities.

Position Supports which Division

Recreation Fee Program

Supervisory Controls

Will work under the supervision of Richard Devenney, Business Manager, (richard_devenney@nps.gov) and with the guidance and support of Stace Wilson, Visitor Use Assistant.

Scope of Contacts

Campground hosts should expect to have high levels of interaction while assisting visitors. All volunteers are expected to positively represent both themselves and the NPS.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Volunteers working 32 hours per week will receive a campsite with full hookups. We do not have sites with sewage but we can allow you to dump your tanks during your work hours.

Volunteer Activities
• Conservation Education
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• Science
• Back Country/Wilderness
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Main Goals for This Position to Accomplish:

Volunteers will engage and orient park visitors to Everglades National Park by sharing information on the natural, cultural, and historic resources of the surrounding area at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. They will also provide formal interpretation walks and talks as well as act as the group sweep on ranger-guided activities such as canoe/kayak paddling programs and bike rides.

Brief Description of Work to be Performed:

• Engage with visitors at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center and surrounding grounds
• Provide visitors with information about Everglades National Park and the area
• Share knowledge of natural and cultural history and identify wildlife through formal interpretation walks and talks
• Connect visitors to the significance of the greater Everglades ecosystem
• Assist with ranger-led interpretation programs such as canoe/kayak paddlig programs, bike rides and evening programs
• Cooperate with fellow volunteers, rangers, and cooperating association staff
• Maintain a safe and friendly learning environment for visitors, volunteers, interns and park staff

Qualifications:

• Volunteers must be able to work independently as well as in small groups, be adaptable, be detailed-oriented, and have good communication skills.
• There is a minimum age of 18 years old.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn about the Everglades Ecosystem
• Ability to swim, paddle and self-rescue in a canoe or kayak

Length of Commitment:

• This is a seasonal position beginning November 24 - April (end date flexible).
• Gulf Coast Visitor Center is open from 9 am to 5 pm, seven days a week.
• Volunteers are asked to work a 8 hour day (8:45 am - 5:15 pm)
• In order to qualify for RV accomodations volunteer must work 32 hours/week, including weekends and holidays.
• Occasional evening shifts are required.

Tools, Equipment, and Vehicles to be Operated:

• No government-owned or concessionaire-owned vehicles will be operated within the scope of the position. Volunteers are required to provide their own transportation to and from duty location.
• Tools or equipment used will be limited to office supplies, general administrative equipment, park mobile radio and a canoe or kayak.
• PFD and other necessary safety equipment will be available to volunteers.

Location Where Work Will Be Performed:

Volunteers will work in air-conditioned, modular visitor center in Everglades City, FL in Everglades National Park as well out on the grounds and on the water in the backcountry. Gulf Coast is located in a brackish mangrove ecosystem on the northern-western boundary of Everglades National Park. Gulf Coast Visitor Center is located 45 minutes from Downtown Naples.

Physical Requirements of Work:

The work is generally standing, walking, bike riding, and paddling on difficult coastal waters. Work will be performed indoors in an air-conditioned visitor center as well as outside in direct sunlight and exposure to the elements, such as intense heat, high humidity, and buggy conditions. Volunteers must be able to swim, paddle and self-rescue in a canoe and kayak.

Uniform:

This is a uniformed position. Volunteers must wear a volunteer uniform shirt and name tag (provided); volunteer uniform hat (provided); khaki, brown, or black, pants or shorts; comfortable, close-toed shoes; and maintain a clean and professional appearance.

Benefits to Volunteers:

The work helps to establish the meaning and relevance of park lands and waters. Volunteers influence visitors’ opinions, attitudes, and enjoyment of the park. The volunteer has a direct effect on individual and group safety, education, and appreciation of park resources and the NPS mission. Volunteers receive training and knowledge of park resources and the art of interpretation. Free housing in the form of an RV pad with hookups and laundry is provided. 

Position Supports Which Division:

Resource Education and Interpretation

Supervisory Controls:

Volunteers will work under the guidance and support of the Gulf Coast Lead Ranger or Supervisory Ranger.

Scope of Contacts:

Volunteers should expect to have constant public contact while working with visitors and positively represent both Everglades National Park and the National Park Service as a whole.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: RV Pad with hookups and laundry house.

Experience, enjoy, and share your enthusiasm about Big Cypress with visitors! 

We need you to share your knowledge about Big Cypress and the surrounding areas here in south Florida. Give one day a week or a few hours once or twice per week. You will make a difference to visitors from around the world!

Duties: Will vary depending on what you would like to do. Working the visitor center, maintenance, administration, the possiblilities are endless!  

Volunteers who will be going out in the field will need a valid U.S. driver's license.

Individuals must be comfortable interacting with a widely diverse public of all ages and interest levels. A willingness to learn and share your knowledge with visitors in a meaningful manner is helpful. While you may answer the same questions many times the smiles you get when you share in helping them discover what they are looking for is rewarding to all involved. A passion for public lands, a taste for adventure, and a sense of humor are also very useful as a volunteer.

Please include three (3) references and their contact information on you application.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Description: As a year-round local volunteer there would be no housing available.

Volunteer Activities
• Conservation Education
• Tour Guide/Interpretation

Photo Courtesy of NPS

The Division of Environmental Education is currently hiring incredible volunteers to help with winter programming for area schools.  The schedule is FULL of super excited kids and teachers ready for a year of hands-on, interactive, experiential education opportunities.  

We are seeking volunteers to help in the following areas:  

• Biscayne Explorer (day program)
• Fish ON! (boat based program)
• In-Classroom Programs.  

Programs are scheduled every day of the week except Wednesdays so there are a lot of opportunities to match this opportunity to your schedule.  Programs are scheduled from 9-2p and take place at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.

Local volunteers only as we do not offer housing..

A background investigation is required.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Description: Housing not available.

Volunteer Activities
• Office/Clerical
• Visitor Information

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Hello!  

We are looking for short term help with updating frequently used documents that are written in German, Japanese, and Spanish.  If you have a mastery of any/all, as well as English, we could use your assistance!  

This position does not require you to be onsite.  It is a virtual position and can be performed from any location around the world with computer and internet access.  You will work with the project leader to ensure the documents are delivered in a digital format as well as with current, relevant information.

Approximatel time commitment should be less than 10hrs/brochure.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Description: none

Volunteer Activities
• Conservation Education
• Research Library
• Historical Preservation
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Calling all Cold War and military history enthusiasts. We need your help at Everglades National
Park. Here in the park we have one of the best preserved Nike Hercules Missile Bases remaining
in the United States. Built by the US Army Corps of Engineers at the height of the Cold War the
HM-69 Nike Missile Base is now being preserved and interpreted for the benefit of current and
future generations.

We are looking for a few dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to commit to
volunteering one day per week from mid-November 2019 to mid-April 2020 to staff the Nike Missile
Site “Open House” from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This “Open House” was created to provide
enhanced opportunity for the visiting public to see, experience and be inspired by the site without
having to attend the formal Ranger Guided tours. Since starting the “Open House” program the
public visitation to the Nike Missile Site has more than doubled.

Services volunteers provide to the
visiting public include; open/closing the Site, interpreting the Site for visitors, providing basic
information and orientation services. This is both an indoor and outdoor position.  If you enjoy interacting with the visiting public, the Cold War
and the mission of the National Park Service this may be just the opportunity for you to make a
valuable and rewarding contribution.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Make Big Cypress more beautiful! Clean up downed vegetation. Move vegetation to appropriate locations that are away from sidewalks, parking lots or other areas where visitors walk. Must be able to pick up loads of at least 10 pounds. Trim native and non-native vegetation using appropriate tools. Pull out or dig up non-native vegetation. May be planting native vegetation. Must be able to use hand trowels, lopers, and shovels. Must be able to bend and kneel as appropriate.

Time requirement: 2 to 8 hours/day. May do once, one day/week or more often as needed.

Must wear appropiate clothing-light weight long pants and closed-toed shoes (no sandals). Wearing a light weight long-sleeved shirt is also recommended. 

Must bring a filled water container. If volunteering longer than four hours should bring a lunch also.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Experience Your National Preserve and Help Visitors Do the Same

Big Cypress wants you to share your experience and expertise and help the visiting public enjoy their public lands. Interpretation volunteers are needed throughout the year both long-term and short term. Whether you have several months to volunteer or several days a week, you can make a difference at the Preserve.

When:  If you have 2-6 months availability and love the summer humidity, bugs, and air conditioning-- positions start May 1st, 2019 and last through October 31st, 2019. 

Duties:  Volunteers will assist the Preserve staffing visitor centers, roving trails and pullouts, gathering statistics, and operating computer cash registers to sell items for the Florida National Parks Association. Training and procedure checklists are provided to get you in the groove.

Helping visitors have the best experience is a big part of the job. The position works in both visitor centers orienting the public to the Preserve and the region, answering phones, selling park store items, and encouraging people to get the most out of their visit.

If you want an extra challenge you will be trained and present thematic interpretive programs to the public. Programs can range from 5 to 50 minutes and cover a variety of natural and cultural topics related to Big Cypress. A program might be a walk, talk, tour, power point presentation, demonstration, or activity.

Volunteers need a valid U.S. driver’s license and will operate government vehicles. 

Skills needed: Be comfortable interacting with a widely diverse public of all ages and interest levels. A willingness to learn about the Preserve and share your knowledge with the visitors in a meaningful manner in helpful. Can you answer the same question over and over again and not sound like a recording? Good! A passion for your public lands, a sense of humor, and a taste for adventure are also useful as a volunteer. 

Housing in the form of dorm rooms, efficiency apartments, and RV pads may be available to volunteers who work at least 32 hours per week. If you are local and/or don’t need accommodation, hours are much more flexible.

Please include three (3) references and their contact information on your application.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Bunk House, Efficiency Apartments, and RV Pads available. To qualify for housing a time commitment of 32 hours/week is required.

Experience, enjoy, and share your enthusiasm about Big Cypress with visitors! We need you to share your knowledge about Big Cypress and the surrounding areas here in south Florida. Give one day a week or a few hours once or twice per week. You will make a difference to visitors from around the world!

Duties: Volunteers will assist the Preserve primarily staffing visitor centers including answering questions, operating computer cash registers to sell items for the Florida National Parks Association, answering phones, and helping visitors learn more about their National Preserve.  You may also help with roving boardwalks and collecting statistics.

For an extra challenge be trained and present thematic interpretive programs to Preserve visitors.    

Volunteers who will be going out in the field will need a valid U.S. driver's license.

Individuals must be comfortable interacting with a widely diverse public of all ages and interest levels. A willingness to learn and share your knowledge with visitors in a meaningful manner is helpful. While you may answer the same questions many times the smiles you get when you share in helping them discover what they are looking for is rewarding to all involved. A passion for public lands, a taste for adventure, and a sense of humor are also very useful as a volunteer.

Please include three (3) references and their contact information on you application.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Make Big Cypress more beautiful! Enjoy the sunshine and experience the humidity! Help Big Cypress National Preserve visitors see native wild plants around their visitor centers. 

Remove downed vegetation. Must be able to pick up loads of at least 10 pounds. Trim native and non-native vegetation using appropriate tools. Dig up non-native vegetation. May be planting native vegetation. Must be able to use hand trowels, lopers, shovels, and wheel barrows. Must be able to bend and kneel as appropriate. 

Time requirement: 2 to 8 hours/day. May do once, one day/week or more often as needed.

Must wear appropriate clothing: light weight long pants and closed-toed shoes (no sandals). Wearing a light weight long-sleeved shirt and a hat ids also recommended.

Will need a filled water container. If volunteering longer than 4 hours, please bring a lunch. 

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Objectives of the Work

This position will support the law enforcement division of Big Cypress National Preserve, performing front-country and backcountry oversight of commercial operators and acting as an additional set of eyes and ears in the Preserve.

Qualifications

• Comfortable operating ATV/UTV

• Operation of Preserve pick-up truck and trailer. Driver’s license required

• Paddling experience and ability to self-rescue required

• Comfortable interacting with general public, commercial operators, and law enforcement

• Basic first aid/ CPR certification preferred

• Ability to work outdoors for 6 hours at a time in all weather conditions

• Some use of computers/ iPad

Statement of Duties

• Document illegal commercial activity and report to law enforcement

• Observe legal commercial activity

• Travel around Preserve, document anything out of the ordinary/ unusual activity

• Assure permit boxes are filled

• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Orientation/Training

Orientation to Big Cypress National Preserve will be provided via a formal orientation class and in-park experiences to include interpretive walks and discussions.  Training will be hosted by park rangers and subject matter experts.  Hands-on training and guidance on project specific capabilities will be provided.

ATV/UTV operation training and water rescue trainings will be offered.

Physical Demands

The work may include periods of up to 6 hours of standing or walking outdoors, in all weather conditions.  Volunteers must be physically able to trailer UTV to different sights, load and unload UTV from trailer etc.

Work Environment

The duties are primarily performed in the outdoors with the potential for inclement weather. Temperatures during winter and spring seasons are fairly mild, however, outside temperatures may fluctuate between the low 30’s and into the low 90’s. 

VIP Uniform

Each VIP will be issued three uniform shirts, one jacket, and one hat.  While on duty, the volunteer must wear the required uniform.  Uniform items are not to be worn off-duty.

Services Provided to Volunteer

• Recreational Vehicle (RV) trailer pad with full hook-ups including electricity, water, and sewer.
• Use of Preserve Headquarters laundry facility and swimming pool.
• Ice may be collected from the Headquarters ice machines (limited to one cooler per day).  Ice may be collected only when park buildings are unlocked.
• The Preserve will provide incredible opportunities and experiences such as canoeing, fishing, hiking, and bicycling.
• Your services will support the work of the National Park Service to preserve and protect our natural, cultural, and historical resources so that all may experience our heritage.

The position term is December until April 1. Selection priority will only be given to those volunteers that commit to the full-term. Volunteers will work with another couple to provide 7 days of coverage (alternating 3 days per week and  4 days per week).

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: An RV site with full hook-ups and 30-50 AMP electrical service is available for volunteers. Can accommodate RV’s up to 40 feet. A minimum of 32 hours per person per week is required for free housing.

Volunteer Activities
• Conservation Education
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• Back Country/Wilderness
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Come experience the wonder of the 10,000 Islands of Everglades National Park right in your backyard! Everglades is looking for local volunteers to help staff the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City and assist with ranger programs. Gain knowledge of this incredible national park by sharing its value with visitors. Volunteers benefit by joining a fun team working for "America's Best Idea"!

Visitor Services/Interpretation Volunteers will assist the Gulf Coast Interpretation staff with:

• answering orientation and resource knowledge questions at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, FL (including assisting visitors with backcountry permits and answering the telephone)
• delivering programs (including but not limited to walks, talks, and canoe/kayak programs)
• may help with collateral duties, such as, maintaining a native plant garden by weeding and watering, vacuuming & dusting, and participating with special events on and off-site

In addition, volunteers may be assigned to assist with any other miscellaneous duties as assigned and in accordance with National Park Service standards. Duties also may include driving a government vehicle.

Must be willing to commit to one 8-hour shift per week. Year-round and seasonal opportunities available.

Training Provided:

• Volunteer may participate in seasonal and district training, if available
• Volunteer will be provided interpretation training and research time if expected to present programs

Physical Demands/Safety Concerns:

• Volunteer may stand for long periods of time
• Canoe/kayak for up to 8 hours
• Walk up to 3 hours along uneven terrain
• Be on a moving boat for up to 6 hours
• Work in a hot, sunny, and humid climate
• Potential to encounter poisonous plants, biting insects and animals, including venomous snakes.

Other considerations:

• Everglades National Park can be a hot, humid, and buggy climate, especially in the summer months.
• Volunteer must be self-motivated and work well independently.
• This position can take place during hurricane season and the volunteer must have an evacuation plan for both themselves and their property in the event of a hurricane.
• Housing is not provided.

Park Description:  Everglades National Park encompasses 1.5 million acres of sawgrass prairie, mangrove coastline, tropical hardwood forests, slash pine forests and cypress swamps that provide great camping, canoeing and fishing opportunities. Hundreds of islands in Florida Bay and the Gulf Coast provide feeding and nesting habitat for thousands of wading birds.

Volunteers will gain intimate knowledge of a unique subtropical ecosystem and have an opportunity to explore and learn about the Everglades. Come join us for a rewarding experience!

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Volunteer Activities
• Botany
• Pest/Disease Control
• Soil/Watershed
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Science
• General Assistance
• Weed/Invasive Species Control

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Do you like digging in the dirt? Come help us beautify the grounds of the Gulf Coast Visitor Center of Everglades National Park! Everglades is looking for local volunteers to help maintain our native plant gardens and trails at our site in Everglades City. Leave a lasting legacy seen by thousands!

Gardening & Grounds Volunteers will assist the Gulf Coast Interpretation staff with:

• Maintaining the native plant garden beds, by pruning and planting native vegetation and weeding out non-native vegetation

• Assisting with garden planning and design

• Picking up downed vegetation and removing overgrown vegetation to keep walking trails clear

• Using appropriate tools, such as hand trowels, pruners, loppers, rakes, shovels, etc.

• Monitoring grounds for and removing invasive plant species

• Cleaning plant identification placards and other informative signage

In addition, volunteers may be assigned to assist with any other miscellaneous duties as assigned and in accordance with National Park Service standards. Duties also may include driving a government vehicle.

Must be willing to commit to at least one monthly 2-8 hour shift. Year-round and seasonal opportunities available.

Training Provided:

• Volunteer may participate in seasonal and district training, if available

Physical Demands/Safety Concerns:

• Volunteer may stand, bend, or kneel for long periods of time
• Use of appropriate PPE required.
• Work in a hot, sunny, and humid climate
• Some heavy lifting necessary
• Potential to encounter poisonous plants, biting insects and animals, including venomous snakes.

Other considerations:

• Everglades National Park can be a hot, humid, and buggy climate, especially in the summer months.
• Volunteer must be self-motivated and work well independently.
• This position can take place during hurricane season and the volunteer must have an evacuation plan for both themselves and their property in the event of a hurricane.
• Housing is not provided.

Park Description:  Everglades National Park encompasses 1.5 million acres of sawgrass prairie, mangrove coastline, tropical hardwood forests, slash pine forests and cypress swamps that provide great camping, canoeing and fishing opportunities. Hundreds of islands in Florida Bay and the Gulf Coast provide feeding and nesting habitat for thousands of wading birds.

Volunteers will gain intimate knowledge of a unique subtropical ecosystem and have an opportunity to explore and learn about the Everglades. Come join us for a rewarding experience!

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Volunteer Activities
• Conservation Education

Photo Courtesy of NPS

The Every Kid in a Park Program (EKIP) is an environmental education program that connects fourth-grade students to Everglades National Park. Thanks to our volunteers, we can welcome over 90 fourth-grade classes to the park!

Volunteers will be stationed at one of five "field lab" tables on topics including alligators, birds, water, invasive species, and periphyton.

The EKIP Program will run four days a week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from late-October until the end of March. Each program day will last approximately 3 hours, plus travel. Locations for this program include Royal Palm (40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034) and Shark Valley (36000 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33194).

All volunteers must attend a training session on either of the following dates: September 13, September 25, or October 16. Training sessions will be held from 9:30-4:30 at ZooMiami. If you cannot attend a scheduled training event, please contact us so we can arrange an alternate date!

General duties may include the following:

• Assist with the setup and cleanup of lab stations.
• Staff a field lab station on one of the following topics: alligators, birds, water, invasive species, and periphyton.
• Present to student groups (~10 children plus a chaperone), as they rotate through field stations.
• Volunteers may give their short presentation up to five times per day.

Requirements/Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Willing and able to commute to your assigned location.
• Interested in learning about the Everglades and relevant topics.
• Excited to share their knowledge with fourth-grade students.
• Able to attend one of our EKIP training dates: September 13, September 25 and October 16

Benefits to Volunteers

• Volunteers will receive an official uniform (polo shirt, hat and name tag)
• Meet and work alongside National Park Service Rangers and other program volunteers
• Opportunity to learn more about Everglades National Park and park divisions
• Training: NPS background, site tour, site history, curriculum to be covered
• Opportunities to gain volunteer recognition items, based on cumulative service

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Visitor Services

Description 

Visitor Service Volunteers in Big Cypress National Preserve assist with staffing two visitor centers by providing orientation, information, and outreach for area visitors in person, by phone, email, and through community outreach.  Volunteers also provide learning opportunities for park visitors through informal interactions. Volunteers will also conduct informal interpretive roving. Roving contacts are done in the preserve and help provide orientation and information about the preserve.

The majority of duties involves assisting with staffing at a visitor center through in-person contacts.  The volunteer will provide an opportunity to help people from around the world enjoy the preserve and learn about the beautiful resources of Big Cypress. Ongoing training on presentation skills, resource knowledge, and safety will be provided. This is a fun, rewarding position which allows creativity, flexibility and opportunities for personal growth.

Requirements: Single individuals must volunteer a minimum of 32 hours per week and couples volunteer 24 hours each. Typically these hours will be fulfilled by working four eight hour days for single individuals. Couples volunteer either three eight hour days or four six hour days. When scheduled to work on special events the hours may be longer. Volunteers will typically have the same days off weekly and working weekends and holidays will be required. Volunteers will be required to drive government vehicles and be able to pass a security background check.

Volunteers may have the opportunity to assist other branches with special projects, visit other agencies in the area, and may have other training opportunities.

Skills: Must have enthusiasm for working with people.  Must be able to work as a team with co-workers of different ages and backgrounds.  Knowledge of natural science, ecology, and conservation a plus. Good communication skills required. Public speaking skills. Flexibility. Ability to walk, hike, or work in hot humid weather on uneven terrain. Competent in computer use including email and word processing. 

Compensation: There is no housing available. We will provide RV spaces with full hook ups in our volunteer campgrounds in exchange for a minimum of 24 hours of volunteering per person for a couple or 32 hour per week for a single individual. RV must be fully contained. Laundry facilities, a pool, and weight room are also available.

Area: Big Cypress headquarters is located in sunny South Florida on Highway 41 just thirty miles east of Naples and seventy miles west of Miami. A personal vehicle is required to get around on your off time. Temperatures during the summer months are usually in the 90s during the day and 70s to 80s at night. Everglades City is the closest town with a small grocery, convenience stores, gas stations, and restaurants. The fishing is great!

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: RV spaces with full hook-ups in our volunteer campground. R.V. must be fully contained. Laundry facilities, a pool and a weight room are also available.

Volunteer Activities
• Campground Host
• Construction/Maintenance
• Conservation Education
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Have we been looking for you all our life!?  We are looking for one or two boats (double or single occupancy) who would be interested in lending their talents to Biscayne National Park in exchange for the chance to 'winter' in South Florida.  If you can donate 32hrs/week/person, we can give you dockspace and hookups Nov/Dec, 2019-April 30, 2020...free of charge.  (preference given to individuals who can commit to the whole season but shorter time commitments may be possible.)

Some duties will include working at a remote island, informal interpretation with island campers, informing visitors about island regulations, general maintenance, assisting with environmental education camps, and various other tasks.  Park staff will work with hired individuals to steamline park needs with individual's talents.  

The ideal person/people should be fit and work well on a team.  They should be flexible with their time and talents, and enjoy working with the public.  Independent work a MUST.

Weekend work is required.  Some night work required.  NPS experience preferred, though not required.  No pets.  No children.  Harbor Hosts are responsible for transportation from mainland to Boca Chita Key.  Draft of boat should be no more than 3.5 feet due to depth of Boca Chita harbor . Boat must be able to be self sustained while at Boca Chita Key as there are no hookups.  Mainland dock has water and electricty (50 or 30 amp) hookups for days off.  Pump out station at marina next door.  

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Description: Harbor Hosts must provide own live-aboard boat.

This volunteer will assist the Shark Valley Interpretation staff with the operations of the Visitor Center answering questions about Everglades National Park, Shark Valley and general area information. Assist Everglades Association employee with sales register and/or operate independently when associate is not there.

In addition, the volunteer will assist the Shark Valley Interpretation staff with programs; including but not limited to guided walks, talks, and assisting with bike rides, wet walks in the Everglades on an as needed basis. A portion of the duties will entail assisting with visitor center operations.

The volunteer will have the chance to learn each of these duties and a priority list will be established in which to work from at district volunteer orientation.

• Volunteer will participate in Seasonal Training in FY20

• Volunteer will participate in District Training

• Volunteer will have 2-weeks Interpretation/program training/research time before being expected to present programs

For questions or more specific information, please contact Phillip Greenwalt at  (305) 225-2001 or phillip_greenwalt@nps.gov..

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available