RV Volunteer

Join the team at Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is located in California’s San Francisco Bay with thousands of acres of wetland habitat protecting endangered species and migratory birds. We are seeking candidates with a variety of skills. Come for a stay as a Refuge Host!

PREFERRED COMMITMENT: 90 days

ACCOMMODATIONS: RV parking on a gravel pad, 30-amp power (50 amps with adapter), city (pressurized) water, septic, picnic table, parking for an additional vehicle. No pets please!

DESCRIPTION OF POTENTIAL DUTIES: (Final assignments dependent on volunteer skills/interests)

• Visitor center host. Welcome the public to the Refuge; provide visitor information; greet visitors on trails

• Run cash register for Nature Store sales

• Trash pickup on workdays; help maintain facilities

• Office/clerical work (brochure development, advertisement materials for programs, etc.)

• Assist with educational and interpretive activities for visiting school and community groups (background check may apply)

• Assist Refuge personnel with other projects and events, as needed

• Optional (based on skills and interest). Examples include developing and presenting interpretive/other educational programs; carpentry; photography, etc.

WORK SCHEDULE: Hours generally split equally between visitor hosting/education and maintenance/trash pick-up duties.

REQUIREMENTS:  

• Willingness to learn about operations and general information about Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge to be able to provide accurate information to visitors

• Must have a driver’s license, RV, and be willing to make a minimum commitment of 90 days

• Wear uniform and badge

• Sign a volunteer agreement form with the Refuge and the Friends Group

• Maintain accurate volunteer service sheet on daily activities/hours worked

• Volunteer(s) are scheduled to work 32 hours per week, including weekends and holidays (Visitor Center is open Wednesday-Saturday)

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS DESIRED:

• Be friendly, polite, respectful, and enjoy working with people

• Ability to work independently as well as member of team 

• Be able to communicate effectively with new people and other team members

• Be reliable, punctual, and represent the National Wildlife Refuge in a professional manner

• Be adaptable to new situations and changing circumstances

BENEFITS:

• Opportunity to work alongside experienced Refuge staff in most divisions of the refuge

• On-site orientation to Refuge and Refuge rules and regulations provided

• Opportunity to develop and present own interpretive/educational programs and materials 

• Continuing education opportunities available, as well as social events 

• Proximity to California county, state, and national parks and cultural events (San Francisco, San Jose, elsewhere)

• Culturally and ethnically diverse community with restaurants and shopping close by