Volunteer Activities
• Archaeology
• Botany
• Conservation Education
• Minerals/Geology
• Office/Clerical
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• Back Country/Wilderness
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of BLM

POSITION DESCRIPTION: A Retired Couple is wanted as RECREATION HOSTS for Dripping Springs Natural Area and Recreation Site. Dripping Springs Natural Area (DSNA) is located within the 2014 designated Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument. The natural area is 10 miles from Las Cruces, NM at the western base of the Organ Mountains at an elevation of 6,000 feet.

Las Cruces, NM has been listed in:  2014 Forbes "Top 25 Places to Retire" ; 2013 Best Boomer Towns "Best 21 Boomer Towns" ; 2012 AARP "Top 10 Great Sunny Places to Retire" ; 2012 Forbes/ Milken Institute "Top 25 Places to Retire" ; 2011 Sunset Magazine "20 Best Towns of the Future" ; 2011 Relocate America "Top 100 Cities to Live" ; 2010 Sunset Magazine "20 Best Towns of the Future"

The hosting couples will be provided a furnished residence at DSNA rent free with utilities  included. A washer and dryer are provided in another building, and shared with other Volunteers. A $12/ day reimbursement is provided to each Host on their scheduled working days. A government vehicle is furnished for official use and shared with other Dripping Springs Volunteers. Training, equipment, and materials are provided as necessary. A Host Couple works together as a team 3 days a week, and every other Wednesday.

The duties include: Enhancing visitor experience, opening and closing gates and the visitor center; staffing the visitor center; hiking trails, ensuring compliance with area rules and fees; and light maintenance.  The Dripping Springs Visitor Center is staffed with day volunteers to help the Hosts.     

LOCATION DESCRIPTION: The Organ Mountains have an arid climate with average annual rainfall between 8 to 12 inches. Rainfall varies yearly with greater precipitation at higher elevations. There are over 800 species of plants found in the Organ Mountains, and approximately 80 species of mammals, 185 species of birds, and 60 species of reptiles and amphibians. DSNA is approximately 2,850 acres in the Organ Mountains, and includes a visitor center, La Cueva Picnic Area, Dripping Springs, and 5 miles of hiking trails. DSNA is open for day use only to the public for recreation and educational activities such as hiking, picnicking, sightseeing, or studying nature and history.

MORE INFORMATION: www.lascruces.org, www.nm.blm.gov (recreation sites), www.desertusa.com (nm-organ mtns.)

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Other
Description: A one bedroom furnished house (Casita) or an Apartment attached to the Visitor Center. Please contact Eileen Davis 575-525-4306 or edavis@blm.gov

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

Photo Courtesy of BLM

Campground Host Couples can inquire to Eileen Davis at the LCDO BLM edavis@blm.gov or call 575-525-4306. Host Couples are needed all year. 

Hosts will reside on site and will work 6 days a week. RV site has a 50/30 amperage with large pad, water, sewage, shaded table and fenced in yard as well as a shed that has laundry facilities, refridgerator/freezer and extra storage. Hosts will be expected to go through defensive driving class and background checks. A government vehicle is provided for host duties.

The main duties will be to open and close gates, engage with the visitors, monitor fee requirements, conduct patrols of the campground and trails, keep campground, Baylor Canyon Trail head and Augustin Pass Overlook clean and presentable with main goal to increase visitor's positive experience. The BLM will provide various training to also enhance the visitor's experience in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.

Aguirre Spring Campground is located in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument on the east side of the Organ Mountains. The campground is nestled at the base of beautiful magestic "needles" and overlooks the spectacular Tularosa Basin and the White Sands National Monument. Alligator juniper, gray oak, mountain mahogany and sotol are a few of the abundant plant species here. Seasonal springs and streams occur in the canyon bottoms, with a few perennial springs that support riparian habitats.There are two National Recreation Trails located at the campground: Pine Tree Loop and Baylor Canyon Trail. Hiking, horse back riding, picnicing and camping are the activities at the Aguirre Spring Campground. Las Cruces, New Mexico is just over the Augustin Pass a few miles away.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: 50/30 amperage, large drive through RV pad, sewage, water, laundry, propane, fenced yard and the most beautiful view.

Volunteer Activities
• Archaeology
• Campground Host
• Conservation Education
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Visitor Information
• Science
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of BLM

Las Cruces District BLM is looking for a couple to host summer 2020 with an end date to be determined. At least a 6 month commitment is prefered. Please call Eileen Davis at 575-525-4306 for more information.

Volunteers would work independently running the visitor center, cleaning the bathrooms, trails, and camp/picnic sites while living on the site. Reimbursement for incidentals and camprate is available. Volunteers would be expected to interact with the public for a more positive experience while enjoying the area. 

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Full RV hook up with cover, washer and dryer in a shed, and a yard

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

Photo Courtesy of BLM

Volunteers would independently run the visitor center, open gates, general clean up and monitoring visitors while living on site in their own RV. This is a very remote site and would be an awesome place to spend time for anyone intersted in historiy of mining and the southwest. The visitor center is an old school house. 

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Full RV hook up with cover, yard and shed with washer and dryer, refrigerator/freezer and extra storage. An abundance of fruit trees and shade.

Trail Watch volunteers make positive contact with visitors while hiking on trails. The purpose of each contact is to ensure visitors are having a safe and enjoyable hike and to provide them with basic information about the monument and its resources. 

Trail Watch volunteers also act as the eyes and ears for the NPS by reporting to the rangers any hazards, resource violations/damage, and illegal or suspicious activities that may be observed while hiking. 

Trail Watch volunteers must be able to stand and walk on natural, uneven trail surfaces and endure extremely hot and dry weather conditions especially during the summer months.

All Trail Watch volunteers are required to wear an official NPS VIP uniform and name bar while performing Trail Watch duties. These uniforms are issued by the VIP Program Manager.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Job description:  Visitor Services volunteers will need the ability to multi-task and utilize communication and presentation skills to introduce and provide an exemplary national park experience for the visiting public.  Duties include staffing the contact station; providing information, education and informal interpretation for visitors about the facilities, programs, and regulations of Valles Caldera National Preserve; providing correct information for park service phone callers; assisting with individuals needing special assistance in the visitor center or on guided tours; recording visitor statistics for park use; and providing sales and operation of the Valle Grande Bookstore.

Goal: By assisting park rangers in providing information, volunteers contribute to the enjoyment of park visitors.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a keen interest in meeting and working with people, public speaking skills, customer service skills, ability to organize information, ability to work cooperatively with others in a stressful environment, ability to follow directions and handle issues with tact and in a professional manner, knowledge of the local area, and the ability to tolerate changing climate/temperature for extended periods of time.  Applicants must be willing to wear the official NPS volunteer uniform provided by the preserve. 

Required: strong communication skills, solid research ablility, patience, enjoy working with people. 

Desired: valid driver's license, natural and/or cultural science background, ability to work independently, public speaking skills, first aid/CPR certification, excellent customer service skills.  

Time Commitment: Schedule is negotiable, but a minimum commitment of 15 shifts per year is required. We welcome help for all shifts, but particularly need help on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

• Shifts can be mutually agreed upon, but are typically 4-8 hours. Volunteers are scheduled for a morning shift (9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.) and/or afternoon shift (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) on a specific day or days each week.
• The visitor contact station is open seven days a week, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is closed only on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. 

Training: Trainees are provided an orientation to Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Valle Grande Contact Station & Bookstore.  They are provided with written resources which they are expected to study. Training for sales and operation of the Valle Grande Bookstore will be provided by our friends groups, Los Amigos de Valles Caldera.  They should also make use of the other training resources available at the contact station.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Description: Housing, RV pads, and campsites are NOT available within the preserve.

Job description: Shuttle Driver volunteers will transport visitors along a designated shuttle route in 12-passenger vans. The safety of the passengers is the prime responsibility of a shuttle driver. Duties include following a set schedule and route; providing information for visitors about the shuttle system; assisting with individuals needing special assistance (includes wheelchair loading/unloading); completing vehicle safety inspections; logging vehicle use; cleaning vans; gassing vans; recharging electric vans; using and following radio protocol; and recording visitor statistics for park use.

Goal: By assisting the preserve's shuttle operations, volunteers contribute to the enjoyment of park visitors and help reduce the preserve's carbon footprint.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a keen interest in meeting and working with people, customer service skills, ability to work cooperatively with others in a stressful environment, ability to follow directions and handle issues with tact and in a professional manner, knowledge of the local area, and the ability to tolerate changing climate/temperature for extended periods of time.  Applicants must be willing to wear the official NPS volunteer uniform provided by the preserve. 

Required: valid driver's license, strong communication skills, patience, enjoy working with people. 

Desired: valid commercial driver's license, ability to work independently, first aid/CPR certification, excellent customer service skills.  

Time Commitment: Schedule is negotiable, but a minimum commitment of 8 days per year is required. We welcome help for all days, but particularly need help on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.  Shifts can be mutually agreed upon, but are typically 8 hours/day. Volunteers are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on a specific day or days each week.

Training: Trainees are provided an orientation to Valles Caldera National Preserve and shuttle operations.  They are provided with written resources which they are expected to study. They should also make use of the other training resources available at the contact station.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Not Available

Water Safety Program Volunteer:

Dates: June 01, 2019 through October 15, 2019 (Looking for Minimum of 4 Week Commitment)

Volunteer Duties: Looking for a few good volunteers who like water and water sports to help us with our water safety program. We want our volunteers to provide water safety education, assist with our life jacket loaner program, and help keep our popular beach litter-free.

Cochiti Lake is a no-wake lake and alcohol is prohibited at our project. We pride ourselves at providing a family-friendly environment and some of the best flatwater paddling, SUP and windsurfing opportunities in the state.

Special Skills: None. Background check is required.
(Updated 05/31/2019)

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Volunteers receive a free RV site with water, sewer, electric (30 and 50 amps) in exchange for volunteering 24 hours a week.

Volunteer Activities
• Campground Host

Photo Courtesy of FS

Campground Host opportunities are available for the period of May 12, 2019 to September 14, 2019.  As a campground host, you will provide service 5 days a week, Thursday through Monday, with Tuesday and Wednesday off.

The campground has a host site with a potable water tank, waste tank, electricity, covered shelter with table, grill and fire ring. Campground hosts will receive reimbursement for allowable expenses. The District provides an electric cart for use within the recreation site.

Host(s) must have good people skills, be responsible and neat in appearance. Host(s) must be physically able to perform such tasks as raking, shoveling, mopping and sweeping, performing minor maintenance. Host(s) will represent the Forest Service in public contacts, providing information and directions, and reporting vandalism and other problems to Forest Service personnel. All necessary tools, supplies, and safety equipment will be provided by the Forest Service, along with appropriate training. 

Your duties will be: 

• Make a minimum of two rounds of the campground throughout the day and evening hours (during your rounds, check for fee compliance)
• Be visible and available for campers (take time to walk the campground and be sociable and courteous to all guests)
• Keep campers informed of current and changing rules and regulations
• Assist with keeping dumpster area, restrooms, grills/fire rings, camp sites clean and assist disabled persons

Host will contact the Jemez Ranger District (829-3535) regarding law enforcement problems; or call 911. Host will eport any health or safety hazards (e.g. broken tables, grills, damage to restrooms etc.) to the Recreation staff; report any injuries within 24 hours to your Supervisor.

We need a campground Host on the Cuba Ranger District at Clear Creek Campground.

Elk and deer live in the surrounding forest, fish in the Rio de las Vacas and proximity to San Pedro Parks Wilderness make this open meadow site at 8,500'  in elevation a veritable spring, summer and fall paradise.

Uses: camping, picnicking and fishing.  

Facilities: 15 units, vault toilets, tables and fire rings, drinking water, 16' trailer limit, 30' RVs.

Eight (8) camp sites are available for reservation through Reserve America.

Please call  Phyllis at 575-829-3535 or email an inquiry or resume to: pamartinez02@fs.fed.us if you are interested in these Hosting opportunities.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: The host site has a potable water, waste tank, electricity, covered shelter with table, grill and fire ring and a landline or FS radio for communication. Host must provide their own RV or trailer.

Volunteer Activities
• Construction/Maintenance
• Visitor Information
• General Assistance
• Weed/Invasive Species Control

Photo Courtesy of NPS

MAKE YOUR VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE MEMORABLE WHILE HELPING GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS!

 Positions are open year-round. The park is  looking for maintenance and construction help between May and November 2019.

There are NO campground host positions at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

 WHAT WILL YOU DO?

Applicants should possess professional experience and skills in any of the following areas: basic carpentry, tilework, roofing, plumbing, carpet cleaning, housing repairs and rehab, interior and exterior painting. Experience and skills in general maintenance practices including janitorial, basic repairs, and trash collection. Other work will include basic janitorial and maintenance, but this is secondary to the professional level work.

The volunteer carries out professional maintenance/construction/repair duties and works on other projects as needed. The filling of this position is based on the current project needs of the park and the skills you posess. The jobs performed may vary widely depending on the park's needs, but bathroom cleaning and general maintenance are guaranteed regular tasks.

Other duties may include work such as: exterior and interior painting; electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and other repair or replacement; gutter cleaning, repair, and installation; trail improvement, landscape and gardening work; housing repairs and cleaning, appliance repair and replacement, and other similar duties depending on the park's need at the time.

LOCATION AND LOGISTICS:

The National Monument is located in a remote area within the beautiful mountains of the Gila National Forest and Gila Wilderness Area of southwestern New Mexico.  Enjoy amazing scenery and outstanding local recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, kayaking, wilderness hot springs, wildlife observation, and much more.

A limited number of dorm rooms for singles are usually available as well as some RV sites that may be available.

Volunteers will be living and working at an altitude of about 5700 feet (1737m). Since the park is open year-round and much of the work is outdoors, volunteers will be working in a wide range of weather conditions and temperatures. Other work may require lifting over 40 pounds, working indoors and outdoors, climbing ladders, and using hand and power tools.

Cell phones do not work within the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument area. There is a land-line in the dorm. Free WiFi is available in the housing area. The RV park sites have free utilities, WiFi, quiet, and easy access to hot spring soaking. Staying at the RV park entails a 10-mile round trip drive to the work site in your private vehicle.

NOTE: Couples must complete applications for EACH person.

Due to the remoteness, reliable personal transportation and a valid driver’s license are required.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Housing may be available including RV pads with full hookups, or private dorm rooms with shared kitchen, living room and bath facilities, Wi-fi, and laundry.

Bitter Lake NWR is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to staff the refuge visitor center/nature store and assist with environmental education and interpretive programs. This is a three-day per week position, working eight hours a day with a one hour lunch break). Bitter Lake NWR has a visitor center that is open Monday-Saturday from 8 am – 4 pm. Your primary responsibilities will include: greeting the public at the visitor center front desk, providing accurate refuge information and wildlife viewing advice, answering the refuge phone, and operating a cash register. Other duties and opportunities to serve are available depending on staffing and your abilities. Famous for its dragonfly population, volunteers may be asked to assist with the annual Dragonfly Festival.

Volunteers are invited to experience working and living at a true desert oasis. Situated between the Chihuahuan Desert and short-grass prairies of the Southern Plains, the refuge is a unique wildlife sanctuary. Bitter Lake NWR, known for its great abundance of migratory birds and diverse wildlife includes more than 28,000 acres of grassland prairies, red bluff landscape, numerous sink hole formations, natural springs, and lush wetlands.

RV sites are located within refuge housing, with easy access to the city of Roswell, New Mexico. Accommodations for grocery shopping, restaurants, movie theaters, medical facilities and others shopping are only 7 miles away. Major cities such as Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Lubbock and El Paso are about three hours from the refuge.  An hour west of the refuge is the city of Ruidoso located in the southern Rockies. Here recreational opportunities include: hiking, fishing, snow skiing, gambling and horseracing. Carlsbad Caverns National Park and the Living Desert Museum are only two hours south of the refuge. Other points of interest include the Alien Museum, Pecos Valley Winery, and the Old Bookstore in Artesia.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Description: The refuge maintains two concrete RV pads. The site is located adjacent to refuge housing in a quiet secluded setting. During migration the surrounding tree line can often be a birdwatching hotspot. Each site has free water, sewer, electric (both 30 and 50 amps) and propane hookups. A laundry facility with free washer and dryer is available. Two fully equipped shower/bathrooms are located near the site. Internet access is free at the visitor center for volunteers. A small recreation lounge with DVD player/TV, refrigerator/freezer and couch is provided. Dogs and cats are allowed but must be leashed or kept under control.

Volunteer Activities
• Visitor Information
• Fish/Wildlife
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of FWS

Requirements :

We need fee rangers for the Oct. 21, 2019  through  February 2020 season.  You must be available for the entire season . 

The Fee Ranger Position requires that you work three days per week, eight hours per day Oct. 22, 2019 through February 29, 2020. Your lunch break will be one hour.

You may be required to have a federal background investigation completed for this position.  If you have had a favorably adjudicated federal background investigation completed, please indicate the year on your application. 

Must be able to stand and reach out fee booth window to carry out transactions. The fee booth is furnished with office style chairs so that you can rest between vehicles and read a book or work on your own laptop or other electronic device.

Must have basic math skills for handling transactions involving money. This is a great position for someone that enjoys working independently and takes pleasure in the quiet time in between the little rushes of visitors.

Duties :

Meets and cheerfully greets visitors from around the world while staffing the refuge fee booth. Explains basic refuge regulations to visitors such as areas open for biking, hiking, and walking dogs. Offers basic wildlife observation advice and gives driving directions. As a public point of contact receives reports from visitors about rare wildlife sightings, problems or violations and calls for appropriate refuge staff to deal with the issue.

Concisely explains the refuge entrance fee options. Operates a cash register to account for entrance passes sold. Uses a calculator to balance money in cash drawer and complete end of shift report form. Maintains security of fee booth, collected funds and accountable stock (i.e. refuge passes, senior passes, military passes and inter-agency passes) by locking doors and transporting money to refuge headquarters.

Restocks brochure dispensers at kiosks and trailheads. Picks-up and disposes of litter found along roadways, trails and visitor areas.

Maintains fee booth in a clean and tidy condition. Cleaning may include, sweeping, washing fee booth windows, wiping counters, emptying trash cans and other tasks as assigned or as seen as needed by the volunteer.

The fee booth has a heater, electrical service and great views of wetland habitats and distant mountains. The fee booth does not have a landline phone so you would not be answering or transferring phone calls.

Assists with other projects as assigned based on the needs of the refuge which could include assisting with janitorial duties. Maintains the volunteer's portable toilet located adjacent to the fee booth.

Complies with volunteer uniform policy. Maintains a neat and professional appearance.

Recreational opportunities and weather: Bosque del Apache NWR is located 90 miles south of Albuquerque and 18 miles south of Socorro, New Mexico. The refuge is located in the northern part of the Chihuahuan Desert and experiences the dramatic night to day temperature change typical of desert environments (40 degrees or more).  Anticipate freezing temperatures during many nights.  The mountain ranges to the west and the Rio Grande Valley to the east give the area a moderate climate throughout the year. Approximately 5" of precipitation occur during the period November through March. Summers can be hot and dry.

We are close to National Forests, spectacular Bureau of Land Management scenery, interesting National Park Service historic sites and state and county parks. There are numerous opportunities to hike, bike and explore historical sites as well as beautiful canyons.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Accommodations are provided and consist of RV sites.

Our RV community is a graveled area consisting of 17 sites. Each site has water, sewer, electric (most with 30 and 50 amps), and limited wireless internet. Portable propane tanks will be refilled by US FWS staff free of charge. The Commons (Bosque Lounge) and Visitor Center are located just a short walk away.

The Bosque Lounge is available for volunteer use and features, free laundry, a commercial kitchen stocked with cooking utensils, extra freezer and refrigerator space, outdoor propane BBQ grills, a restroom, a dry sauna, a pool table, a piano, a lending library of fiction books, and plenty of room to meet as a volunteer group, hold special dinners for volunteers, play cards or layout a puzzle.

We are not able to offer meal reimbursement, a living allowance or stipend.

Volunteer Activities
• Office/Clerical
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• Fish/Wildlife
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of FWS

Requirements :

We need ranger naturalists for the October 2019 through  February 2020 season.  You must be available for the entire season.  

The Visitor Center Ranger Naturalist Position requires that you work three days per week, eight hours per day Oct. 21, 2019 through February 29, 2020. Additional hours made be required during training and during the Annual Festival of the Cranes. For lunch you will have one hour off duty near the midpoint of your shift.

You may be required to have a federal background investigation completed for this position.  If you have had a favorably adjudicated federal background investigation completed, please indicate the year on your application. 

Duties :

Meets and cheerfully greets visitors from around the world while staffing the refuge visitor center. Explains basic refuge regulations to visitors such as areas open for biking, hiking, and walking dogs. Offers wildlife viewing advice and gives driving directions. Concisely explains the refuge entry fee options. Operates an electronic cash register to sell entry passes. Issues non-fee passes according to policy. Accurately completes end of day shift reports and maintains security of accountable stock. As a public point of contact receives reports from visitors of rare wildlife sightings, problems or violations and calls for appropriate refuge staff to deal with the issue.

Goes out on the refuge to areas of high bird concentration and uses spotting scope, binoculars and field guides to help visitors identify birds and to increase the visitor's understanding of the refuge mission and objectives. May give short, informal talks to visitors about wildlife while roving the visitor center and visitor center plaza.

Answers phone calls and provides basic information and transfers calls.

Picks up and disposes of litter found along roadways, trails and visitor areas.

Maintains visitor center in a clean and tidy condition. Cleaning may include, sweeping, vacuuming, washing windows, wiping counters, emptying trash cans, disinfecting toilets and other tasks as assigned or as seen as needed by the volunteer.

Assists with other projects as assigned based on the needs of the refuge.

Complies with volunteer uniform policy. Maintains a neat and professional appearance.

Recreational opportunities and weather: Bosque del Apache NWR is located 90 miles south of Albuquerque and 18 miles south of Socorro, New Mexico. The refuge is located in the northern part of the Chihuahuan Desert and experiences the dramatic night to day temperature change typical of desert environments (40 degrees or more).  Approximately 5" of precipitation occur during the period November through March. 

We are close to National Forests, spectacular Bureau of Land Management scenery, interesting National Park Service National Monuments and state parks. There are numerous opportunities to hike, bike and explore historical sites as well as beautiful canyons.

Please list at least two volunteer or professional work references on your application.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Accommodations are provided and consist of RV sites.

Our RV community is a graveled area consisting of 17 sites. Each site has water, sewer, electric (most with 30 and 50 amps), and slow wireless internet. Portable propane tanks will be refilled by US FWS staff free of charge. The Commons (Bosque Lounge) and Visitor Center are located just a short walk away.

The Bosque Lounge is available for volunteer use and features, free laundry facilities, a commercial kitchen stocked with cooking utensils, a freezer, a refrigerator, an outdoor propane BBQ grill, a dry sauna, a pool table, a piano, a lending library of fiction books,and plenty of room to meet as a volunteer group, hold special dinners for volunteers, play cards or layout a puzzle.

Unfortunately we are not able to offer meal reimbursement, a living allowance, or a stipend.

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

Photo Courtesy of FS

The Gila Visitor Center is located in a remote area of southwestern New Mexico within the beautiful mountains of the Gila National Forest and the Gila Wilderness. Enjoy amazing scenery and outstanding local recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, kayaking, wilderness hot springs, wildlife observation, and much more. An “America the Beautiful” pass is available to volunteers who give 250 hours or more of service, which is easily acquired in a 3 month commitment. A description of the pass is described at the bottom of this page.

The volunteer will work 4 days a week, with a minimum of a 3-month commitment. The duties will require daily janitorial tasks such as cleaning pit and flush toilets, collecting garbage from the housing, campground and day use areas, as well as interacting with the public. The Volunteer will also be expected to assist in facilities maintenance such as painting, plumbing, lawn mowing and general repairs. If the volunteer shows interest in trail inventories and trail work there is a possibility to add these opportunity’s to their monthly tasks. All Personal Protective Equipment, Job Hazard Analyses and trainings will be available depending on task requirements and volunteer skill sets.

The volunteer must be willing and able to accomplish these tasks while maintaining a positive attitude. You will be provided all of the tools and support needed to accomplish your tasks. Maintaining a neat and professional appearance will be vital due to your interaction with the public. The Custodial Volunteer will at times need to interact with the public, and a positive attitude and willingness to share information is required. Working as a team is important, and all volunteers will be asked to work in groups at times. Volunteers are required to wear a uniform when interacting with the public that the Forest Service will provide.

A limited number of dorm rooms are available, and there are a few RV sites with hookups provided. Volunteers live and work at an altitude of about 5800 feet (1780m). Much of the job is outdoors, requiring volunteers to work in a wide range of weather conditions and temperatures. Cell phones do not work within the Gila Center area. A land-line phone at the visitor center is available for people to reach you in an emergency. Free (limited) WiFi and laundry is available in the housing area.

NOTE: Please take time in filling out the application. Taking special attention to the description of you qualifications, skills, experience, education, and your objective to volunteer will help us determine placement options. Thank you very much for your interest in volunteering at Gila Visitor Center!

The America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country. A pass covers entrance, standard amenity fees and day use fees for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per vehicle fee areas (or up to four adults at sites that charge per person). Children age 15 or under are admitted free.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Bunk House
Description: An RV space and housing is available at Gila Center 3 miles north of Gila Hotsprings New Mexico. A bunkhouse and a 3 bedroom house are possible options.

Maintenance Volunteer:

Conchas Dam is approximately 32 miles NW of Tucumcari, NM and is in need of a maintenance volunteer for 20 primitive campsites.

Background check and finger prints required for security to acquire this volunteer-ship.

Duties include but are not limited to: Visitor outreach and interpretive programs, routine maintenance projects, trail work, assist visitors with park rules and regulations and all questions, assist Corps staff, Work with the camp host on major maintenance and cleanup projects, and help provide aquatic invasive species & boat safety inspections, and assist park staff as needed. Advise USACE staff of any violations.

Any questions can be directed to Ryan J. Poland volunteer coordinator (575) 868-2221.
(Updated 03/31/2019)

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Maintenance volunteer can obtain a full electric and sewer campsite in return for 25 to 30 hours per week volunteer services.

Campground Host:

Dates:  June 01, 2018 through September/October 2018

Conchas Dam is looking for a full-time or part-time (minimum 20 hours) camp host.  Duties include visitor assistance in campground, routine cleaning of 20 campsites and restocking of 2 pit toilets. This job requires that some routine maintenance & improvement work be completed throughout the campground. Other duties include educate visitors on park rules and regulations, respond to all questions from the public, and assist permanent seasonal staff on the weekends. 

Conchas Dam (88416) is located in northeast New Mexico. Project office is 35 miles from Tucumcari and 175 miles from Albuquerque.

All questions can be directed to Ryan J. Poland volunteer coordinator (575) 868-2221.

Special Skills: The volunteer coordinator at Conchas Dam is looking for seasoned and experienced U.S. Army Corps of Engineers volunteers. Skills needed include but are not limited to; landscaping, minor woodworking, painting, routine maintenance skills and abilities, communication and computer skills.
(Updated 03/31/2019)

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: This volunteer position does include a USACE campsite with water, sewage and electric. This campsite also has a 45’ L x 12’ W concrete pad for large RV’s and campers. The campsite continues to be improved upon so that Conchas can attract very talented volunteers who have a passion for the USACE mission and enjoy the outdoors.

Volunteer Activities
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Fish/Wildlife
• General Assistance
• Weed/Invasive Species Control

Photo Courtesy of FWS

Requirements :

The Grounds Maintenance (landscaping assistant) position requires that you work three days per week, 8 hours a day or four days per week, 6 hours a day (positions are available for up to 6 months, sometimes longer dependent on the quality of work performed). A two month commitment is required and your season may be extended based on your success in the position and if sufficient or other types of duties are available. Typical tours of duty are March - June or September - October. Current opening is for Mid-August/September - October 18, 2019.

This position performs routine grounds maintenance tasks around the visitor center and parking lots and in the Desert Arboretum (cactus garden), assists with "weed" control along the tour loop, hiking trails  and other outdoor visitor facilities.  You will assist with watering native plants using hoses and drip irrigation systems.  You must be able to bend and kneel down and use and maintain all common landscaping hand tools including but not limited to:  wheelbarrows, pruners, loppers, clippers, rakes, brooms, shovels, etc...

Ability and willingness to use some power tools (such as power trimmers, leaf blowers, brush hog mowers, etc...) on occasion is preferred but not necessary.

You must possess a valid driver's license to operate government vehicles. You will be provided with work gloves, safety equipment and all the tools needed to accomplish your tasks. Your daily duties will take you "behind the scenes" and all around the public parts of the refuge with plenty of time to observe wildlife while you work.

Assists with other projects as assigned and able based on the needs of the refuge.

Information about the local community:

Recreational opportunities and weather: Bosque del Apache NWR is located 90 miles south of Albuquerque and 18 miles south of Socorro. The refuge is located in the arid zone of New Mexico and is generally quite dry. The mountain ranges to the west and the Rio Grande Valley to the east give the area a moderate climate throughout the year. Approximately 5" of precipitation occur during the period November through March. Summers can be hot and dry.

We are close to National Forests, spectacular Bureau of Land Management scenery, interesting National Park Service historic sites and state and county parks. There are numerous opportunities to hike, bike and explore historical sites as well as beautiful canyons.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Accommodations are provided and consist of RV sites.

Our RV community is a level, graveled area consisting of 17 sites. Each site has water, sewer, electric (most with 30 and 50 amps), limited wireless internet. Propane is provided for external tanks. The Bosque Lounge and Visitor Center are located just a short walk away.

The Bosque Lounge is available for volunteer use and features, free laundry, a commercial kitchen stocked with cooking utensils, a freezer, a refrigerator, an ice machine, outdoor propane BBQ grill, a restroom, a dry sauna, a pool table, a piano, a lending library of fiction books, and plenty of room to meet as a group, hold special dinners, play cards or layout a puzzle.

We are not able to offer meal reimbursement, a living allowance or stipend.

Volunteer Activities
• Archaeology
• Other
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Make Your Volunteer Experience Memorable for Yourself and for the Visiting Public!

WE NEED YOUR HELP! Especially after September 2019

USE YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE TO HELP VISITORS DISCOVER GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS NATIONAL MONUMENT AS AN INTERPRETIVE VOLUNTEER

Limited dorm rooms in a shared house are available as well as RV spots with full utilities.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The park is seeking interpretive volunteers throughout the year.

Have you ever wanted to find out what it's like to be a park ranger? Are you seeking to learn and expand your skills as an interpreter? Then Gila Cliff Dwellings may be the volunteer place for you!

• Volunteers seeking or having experience presenting interpretive communications for the cliff dwellings are welcome!
• Volunteers also provide informal interpretation related to surrounding cultural and natural resources.
• Volunteers staff the Gila Visitor Center providing regional orientation and information to visitors. Working at the visitor center includes selling items through the Western National Parks Association store and operating a computerized cash register.
• Training is provided.

NO campground host opportunities exist at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

Volunteers are asked to make a 3 month/32 hour a week minimum commitment. Longer stays are possible if both parties find it beneficial to extend the term of service. Shorter terms may also be available depending on your background and experience!

LOCATION AND LOGISTICS:

The National Monument is located in a remote area within the beautiful mountains of the Gila National Forest and Gila Wilderness Area of southwestern New Mexico.  Enjoy amazing scenery and outstanding local recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, photography, wilderness hot springs, wildlife observation, and much more.

A limited number of dorm rooms for singles are usually available and there are many RV sites with hookups provided.

Volunteers live and work at an altitude of about 5800 feet (1780m). Since the park is open year-round and much of the job is outdoors, volunteers will be working in a wide range of weather conditions and temperatures. Staffing the cliff dwellings requires standing for extended periods of time. It also means  hiking an unpaved one-mile loop trail that is steep and strenuous several times a day fairly quickly. The 185-foot elevation gain (and loss) traveling to the dwellings is the equivalent of climbing 18 flights of stairs. All volunteers must be able to walk the trail fairly quickly, sometimes more than once each day.

Cell phones do not work within the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument area. A land-line phone at the visitor center lets people reach you in an emergency. Free (limited) WiFi and laundry is available in the housing area. Nearby RV park has access to hot spring soaking, WiFi, and pull-through spaces for volunteers.

NOTE: Please include three references (with phone numbers) in section 19 of the application. If you apply online, you can enter information into section 19 by using the final entry block at the end of step 4 of the application.  Couples must complete applications for EACH person.

Due to the remoteness, reliable personal transportation and a valid driver’s license are required.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Trailer/RV Pads
Description: Housing may be available including RV pads with full hookups; or private dorm rooms with shared kitchen, living room and bath facilities, Wi-fi, and laundry. A small trailer may be available for volunteers with a pet.

Volunteer Activities
• Archaeology
• Botany
• Campground Host
• Construction/Maintenance
• Computers
• Conservation Education
• Office/Clerical
• Other
• Trail/Campground Maintenance
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• Back Country/Wilderness
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of BLM

Description 

Volunteer position description: Visitor Information Guide volunteers are responsible for providing information in person and by phone at the El Malpais National Conservation Area Contact Station. The individual would need to learn and maintain knowledge of local area & landmarks for driving, camping, hiking, hunting, and other recreational opportunities. Additional options include: interpretive programs at the contact station or out in the field (your choice of relevant topics), resource patrols, maintenance, trail work and other projects as assigned.  

The goal of this position is to provide additional staff to assist with visitor services operations at El Malpais National Conservation Area. A creative, self-motivated individual who is interested in volunteering with and learning about the Bureau of Land Management is encouraged to apply.

Skills preferred: Volunteer must be comfortable working with the general public to provide excellent customer service. An interest in El Malpais National Conservation Area, learning about interpretation in the BLM, and a willingness to be coached with feedback is a must. Volunteer must be comfortable with public speaking in a variety of settings with a diverse audience of all ages. This position requires a professional and friendly demeanor that is excited to represent the Bureau of Land Management.

Prior to entering on duty, applicants must submit and pass an agency background check.

Working Conditions: This position requires standing, walking, for extended amounts of time in both indoors and outdoors settings. Volunteers will work in a variety of weather conditions that may include wind, rain, thunderstorms, bright sun, and snow. Volunteer may need to lift/move a load of 30 to 50 pounds. This is a uniformed position which will be provided. Working on weekends and holidays may occur.

Number of volunteers needed: 1-2 or 3-5

Time Commitment: Residential Volunteer quarters and must commit to 32 hours per week.

Housing: Free shared park housing is available for volunteers.  Housing is located at the Ranger Station, 12 miles south of Grants, NM off of highway 117, Pets are not allowed.

Description of El Malpais National Conservation Area: Located in beautiful Northwestern New Mexico, El Malpais National Conservation Area, Spanish for “the badlands” is a land shaped by ancient lava flows. The unique geology has created fascinated habitats for diverse plants and wildlife to call home. Humans have called this area home for thousands of years, including past and current American Indian cultures, Spanish explores in the 1600’s, homesteaders, and today’s visitors. A land of extremes at over 6,000 feet elevation, the high desert landscape at El Malpais National Conservation Area will have sunny hot summers, and cold winters with snow.

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Other
Description: Shared housing is available for single volunteers in BLM Ranger Station, 12 miles south of Grants, NM off of highway 117. Pets are not allowed. Each volunteer has his or her own bedroom, but shared a bathroom, kitchen and common areas.

Volunteer Activities
• Archaeology
• Conservation Education
• Office/Clerical
• Tour Guide/Interpretation
• Visitor Information
• General Assistance

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Pecos National Historical Park is looking for friendly, motivated people to assist our visitor services program.

The Volunteer position(s) are available year-round at the front desk of the visitor center.  Volunteers usually commit to one morning or afternoon shift per week year-round. Note: one or more volunteer positions may be filled from this announcement. 

DUTIES: Our volunteers aid seasonal and permanent staff with a variety of duties: staffing the visitor center, roving the trails, assisting park visitors, and helping with special projects. Physical requirements include the ability to hike at least 1.25 miles,on a moderately strenuous high-elevation park trail (7000').

The volunteers will assist with front desk visitor services, special projects and informal visitor contacts.

SKILLS: Customer service experience, cash handling experience, ability to hike trails of uneven terrain and the desire to learn about Pecos National Historical Park.

ORIENTATION: Volunteers new to the area will receive comprehensive training on both visitor center and cooperating association bookstore operations.  

 

HOUSING & AMENITIES
Type: Other
Description: Housing not available.