What are the responsibilities and job description for the Visitor Services Specialist Individual Placement-AmeriCorps position at Conservation Legacy?
Description
Position Title: Visitor Services Specialist Individual Placement - AmeriCorps
Conservation Legacy Program: Conservation Corps New Mexico
Site Location: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
21088 State Hwy 115
Cache, Oklahoma, 73527
Terms of Service:
• Start Date: 3/1/2027
• End Date: 7/2/2027
• AmeriCorps Slot Classification: 675 Hours
• # of weeks: 18
COVER LETTER AND RESUME REQUIRED FOR CONSIDERATION
Applications will be reviewed as they are received; position open until filled.
Purpose:
AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation's most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. Environmental stewardship programs help conserve natural habitats, improve energy efficiency, and protect clean air and water among other environmental efforts.
Conservation Corps New Mexico (CCNM)
As part of Conservation Legacy and an AmeriCorps program, CCNM aims to continue the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930's. CCNM is focused on connecting youth, young adults, and recent era military veterans with conservation service projects on public lands. CCNM operates programs across New Mexico and western Texas/Oklahoma that engage individuals and strengthen communities through service and conservation. The CCNM Las Cruces office manages the Individual Placement Program.
Mentorship
These Individual Placements are unique development AmeriCorps positions. Participants are paired with a local supervisor and gain technical, hands-on experience in the work of these organizations or agencies. Site supervisors commit to facilitate career development; introduce participants to numerous pathways within the conservation field; create meaningful learning opportunities; and provide technical, hands-on experience in the work of these organizations or agencies.
The Visitor Services Department at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge connects the public with the refuge's natural and cultural resources through meaningful, safe, and educational experiences. Its mission is to provide high-quality interpretation, outreach, and recreational opportunities that foster stewardship, promote wildlife conservation, and ensure all visitors feel welcome and informed. The department also maintains clean, safe, and accessible public facilities to support a positive visitor experience. The selected individual placement will assist staff with interpretation, managing visitor contact stations, supporting special programs, and helping maintain clean, safe, and accessible public facilities. Their service will enhance the visitor experience, promote responsible recreation, and strengthen community connections to wildlife conservation.
Description of Duties:
• Trail Clearing and Maintenance
o Identify and clear fallen branches, debris, and vegetation that obstruct the trail to ensure safe passage for hikers.
o Use hand tools such as loppers, saws, and rakes to maintain the trail path, ensuring it is wide enough and free of hazards.
o Assess trail conditions after maintenance and document any areas needing further attention or repair.
• Visitor Engagement
o Develop and implement outreach programs to connect visitors with the natural and cultural history of the site.
o Facilitate guided tours and interactive activities that enhance visitor understanding and appreciation.
o Collect and analyze visitor feedback to improve engagement strategies and visitor experiences.
• Educational Materials Development
o Research and create educational content highlighting key themes and site relevant information.
o Design visual aids, brochures, and digital resources to support visitor education and engagement.
o Collaborate with educators to ensure materials meet curriculum standards and visitor needs.
• Visitor Center Operations
o Assist staff with daily operations, including managing visitor inquiries and providing information.
o Organize and maintain exhibits and displays to ensure a welcoming atmosphere.
o Support scheduling and coordination for events and volunteer activities at the center.
• Routine Cleaning and Maintenance of Facilities
o Perform daily cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, and sanitizing common areas (e.g. lobbies, restrooms, break rooms).
o Conduct routine facility inspections to identify maintenance needs (e.g., light bulb replacements, leaks, minor repairs).
o Assist staff with organizing and maintaining cleaning supplies and equipment, ensuring all tools are properly stored and labeled for safety.
Conditions: Use of tools increases exposure to injury; uneven terrain in the field; encounters with wildlife such as snakes or larger mammals; risk of injury during outdoor activities or tours if safety protocols are not followed; potential exposure to allergens; visitor/volunteer management to prevent disturbance of sensitive habitats and ecosystems; strain from prolonged computer use; ensuring information dispensed to visitors is accurate; proper handling of data; management of large groups of visitors; environmental friendly use of materials and supplies; awareness of emergency procedures.
Qualifications:
• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien
• At least 18 years of age.
• Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of elementary or 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.
• Agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check.
• Valid U.S Driver's License - Drivers must be over 21 or have had a license for at least 3 consecutive years
• Per federal grant requirements, this position is for young adults between the ages of 18-30 (35 for veterans) at the time the individual begins term of service.
Participation and Expedition Behavior:
• Work effectively as a member of a team despite potentially stressful and difficult conditions. This may require problem solving on an interpersonal or group level as well as a willingness to accept differences.
• Contribute to a safe learning environment, no harassment of others for any reason.
• Willingness and ability to complete all aspects of the program including conservation projects, education, training, and national service.
• Effectively communicate ideas and concerns as they arise directly to supervisors, colleagues, and organization staff.
• Appropriately represent Conservation Corps New Mexico, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and AmeriCorps to the public and partners at all times.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and capacity to work in a fluid, changing work environment.
Safety and Judgment:
• Effectively communicate danger to others in the form of either a warning of danger others may be encountering or a notification of personal distress, injury or need for assistance. Must be able to do so at a distance of up to 50 meters and in conditions with limited visibility or loud background noise such as darkness or high winds.
• Effectively perceive and understand significant and apparent hazards and follow direction by others so that you will be able to successfully execute techniques to manage hazards. These directions may be given before the hazard is encountered or may need to be given during the exposure to the hazard. Ability to respond appropriately to stress or crises.
• Stay alert and focused for several hours at a time while traveling and working in varied weather conditions.
• If taking prescription medications, participants must be able to maintain proper dosage by self- medicating without assistance from others.
Substance Free:
• In accordance with a drug free workplace, alcohol and drugs are prohibited while participating in AmeriCorps and program activities and while on organization property.
Background Check:
A Department of Interior background clearance may be required before the selected candidate reports for service. The FWS will provide instructions for completion of the clearance after a candidate has been selected and will notify them when they have been cleared to start service. This process will determine the participant's exact start date.
Participants will have access to government facilities and systems, and will be supplied with access to government vehicles, equipment, and materials needed to work on the projects and activities as outlined above. Participants must adhere to all government regulations and policies for operating equipment, vehicles, security awareness, and safety.
Our Commitment:
Conservation Legacy is committed to the full consideration of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential job functions. Physical requirements may include periodic overnight travel, non-traditional work 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. The ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Vanessa Morrison at vmorrison@conservationlegacy.org.
Time Requirements:
• Typically, this position is expected to serve 40 hours per week, Tuesday to Saturday, but exact service schedules may vary. A half hour lunch break will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service.
• Member may be required to participate in national, state, or local service projects or events as part of their service term.
Orientation and Training:
• Member will receive an orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities.
• Tool safety.
• Environmental awareness: information on local flora and fauna to protect while maintaining trails.
• Orientation on the site's history, ecology, and cultural significance.
• Training in public speaking and tour guiding techniques.
• Instruction on effective educational content creation and resource development.
• Guidance on graphic design tools and software for creating visual materials.
• Training in customer service best practices for engaging with visitors.
• Overview of operational procedures, including inventory management and exhibit maintenance.
• Orientation on event planning and volunteer coordination methodologies.
• Defensive Driving Course
Benefits:
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $2,817.14.
• Living Allowance of $680 per week.
• Free housing available onsite; more information will be shared during the interview process.
• Healthcare Coverage.
• Student loan forbearance and interest payments are available for qualifying loans.
• Member will have additional hours to take time off for personal, holiday, and sick leave and still complete their minimum AmeriCorps 675-hour term.
• Member eligible for Public Lands Corps Hiring Authority upon completion of term (that allows for competitive hiring for USA jobs/government jobs).
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.
Program Contact:
SamJean Simmons
ssimmons@conservationlegacy.org
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 reasonable accommodations due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to the hiring manager.
Position Title: Visitor Services Specialist Individual Placement - AmeriCorps
Conservation Legacy Program: Conservation Corps New Mexico
Site Location: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
21088 State Hwy 115
Cache, Oklahoma, 73527
Terms of Service:
• Start Date: 3/1/2027
• End Date: 7/2/2027
• AmeriCorps Slot Classification: 675 Hours
• # of weeks: 18
COVER LETTER AND RESUME REQUIRED FOR CONSIDERATION
Applications will be reviewed as they are received; position open until filled.
Purpose:
AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation's most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. Environmental stewardship programs help conserve natural habitats, improve energy efficiency, and protect clean air and water among other environmental efforts.
Conservation Corps New Mexico (CCNM)
As part of Conservation Legacy and an AmeriCorps program, CCNM aims to continue the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930's. CCNM is focused on connecting youth, young adults, and recent era military veterans with conservation service projects on public lands. CCNM operates programs across New Mexico and western Texas/Oklahoma that engage individuals and strengthen communities through service and conservation. The CCNM Las Cruces office manages the Individual Placement Program.
Mentorship
These Individual Placements are unique development AmeriCorps positions. Participants are paired with a local supervisor and gain technical, hands-on experience in the work of these organizations or agencies. Site supervisors commit to facilitate career development; introduce participants to numerous pathways within the conservation field; create meaningful learning opportunities; and provide technical, hands-on experience in the work of these organizations or agencies.
The Visitor Services Department at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge connects the public with the refuge's natural and cultural resources through meaningful, safe, and educational experiences. Its mission is to provide high-quality interpretation, outreach, and recreational opportunities that foster stewardship, promote wildlife conservation, and ensure all visitors feel welcome and informed. The department also maintains clean, safe, and accessible public facilities to support a positive visitor experience. The selected individual placement will assist staff with interpretation, managing visitor contact stations, supporting special programs, and helping maintain clean, safe, and accessible public facilities. Their service will enhance the visitor experience, promote responsible recreation, and strengthen community connections to wildlife conservation.
Description of Duties:
• Trail Clearing and Maintenance
o Identify and clear fallen branches, debris, and vegetation that obstruct the trail to ensure safe passage for hikers.
o Use hand tools such as loppers, saws, and rakes to maintain the trail path, ensuring it is wide enough and free of hazards.
o Assess trail conditions after maintenance and document any areas needing further attention or repair.
• Visitor Engagement
o Develop and implement outreach programs to connect visitors with the natural and cultural history of the site.
o Facilitate guided tours and interactive activities that enhance visitor understanding and appreciation.
o Collect and analyze visitor feedback to improve engagement strategies and visitor experiences.
• Educational Materials Development
o Research and create educational content highlighting key themes and site relevant information.
o Design visual aids, brochures, and digital resources to support visitor education and engagement.
o Collaborate with educators to ensure materials meet curriculum standards and visitor needs.
• Visitor Center Operations
o Assist staff with daily operations, including managing visitor inquiries and providing information.
o Organize and maintain exhibits and displays to ensure a welcoming atmosphere.
o Support scheduling and coordination for events and volunteer activities at the center.
• Routine Cleaning and Maintenance of Facilities
o Perform daily cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, and sanitizing common areas (e.g. lobbies, restrooms, break rooms).
o Conduct routine facility inspections to identify maintenance needs (e.g., light bulb replacements, leaks, minor repairs).
o Assist staff with organizing and maintaining cleaning supplies and equipment, ensuring all tools are properly stored and labeled for safety.
Conditions: Use of tools increases exposure to injury; uneven terrain in the field; encounters with wildlife such as snakes or larger mammals; risk of injury during outdoor activities or tours if safety protocols are not followed; potential exposure to allergens; visitor/volunteer management to prevent disturbance of sensitive habitats and ecosystems; strain from prolonged computer use; ensuring information dispensed to visitors is accurate; proper handling of data; management of large groups of visitors; environmental friendly use of materials and supplies; awareness of emergency procedures.
Qualifications:
• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien
• At least 18 years of age.
• Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of elementary or 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.
• Agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check.
• Valid U.S Driver's License - Drivers must be over 21 or have had a license for at least 3 consecutive years
• Per federal grant requirements, this position is for young adults between the ages of 18-30 (35 for veterans) at the time the individual begins term of service.
Participation and Expedition Behavior:
• Work effectively as a member of a team despite potentially stressful and difficult conditions. This may require problem solving on an interpersonal or group level as well as a willingness to accept differences.
• Contribute to a safe learning environment, no harassment of others for any reason.
• Willingness and ability to complete all aspects of the program including conservation projects, education, training, and national service.
• Effectively communicate ideas and concerns as they arise directly to supervisors, colleagues, and organization staff.
• Appropriately represent Conservation Corps New Mexico, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and AmeriCorps to the public and partners at all times.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and capacity to work in a fluid, changing work environment.
Safety and Judgment:
• Effectively communicate danger to others in the form of either a warning of danger others may be encountering or a notification of personal distress, injury or need for assistance. Must be able to do so at a distance of up to 50 meters and in conditions with limited visibility or loud background noise such as darkness or high winds.
• Effectively perceive and understand significant and apparent hazards and follow direction by others so that you will be able to successfully execute techniques to manage hazards. These directions may be given before the hazard is encountered or may need to be given during the exposure to the hazard. Ability to respond appropriately to stress or crises.
• Stay alert and focused for several hours at a time while traveling and working in varied weather conditions.
• If taking prescription medications, participants must be able to maintain proper dosage by self- medicating without assistance from others.
Substance Free:
• In accordance with a drug free workplace, alcohol and drugs are prohibited while participating in AmeriCorps and program activities and while on organization property.
Background Check:
A Department of Interior background clearance may be required before the selected candidate reports for service. The FWS will provide instructions for completion of the clearance after a candidate has been selected and will notify them when they have been cleared to start service. This process will determine the participant's exact start date.
Participants will have access to government facilities and systems, and will be supplied with access to government vehicles, equipment, and materials needed to work on the projects and activities as outlined above. Participants must adhere to all government regulations and policies for operating equipment, vehicles, security awareness, and safety.
Our Commitment:
Conservation Legacy is committed to the full consideration of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential job functions. Physical requirements may include periodic overnight travel, non-traditional work 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. The ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Vanessa Morrison at vmorrison@conservationlegacy.org.
Time Requirements:
• Typically, this position is expected to serve 40 hours per week, Tuesday to Saturday, but exact service schedules may vary. A half hour lunch break will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service.
• Member may be required to participate in national, state, or local service projects or events as part of their service term.
Orientation and Training:
• Member will receive an orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities.
• Tool safety.
• Environmental awareness: information on local flora and fauna to protect while maintaining trails.
• Orientation on the site's history, ecology, and cultural significance.
• Training in public speaking and tour guiding techniques.
• Instruction on effective educational content creation and resource development.
• Guidance on graphic design tools and software for creating visual materials.
• Training in customer service best practices for engaging with visitors.
• Overview of operational procedures, including inventory management and exhibit maintenance.
• Orientation on event planning and volunteer coordination methodologies.
• Defensive Driving Course
Benefits:
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $2,817.14.
• Living Allowance of $680 per week.
• Free housing available onsite; more information will be shared during the interview process.
• Healthcare Coverage.
• Student loan forbearance and interest payments are available for qualifying loans.
• Member will have additional hours to take time off for personal, holiday, and sick leave and still complete their minimum AmeriCorps 675-hour term.
• Member eligible for Public Lands Corps Hiring Authority upon completion of term (that allows for competitive hiring for USA jobs/government jobs).
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.
Program Contact:
SamJean Simmons
ssimmons@conservationlegacy.org
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 reasonable accommodations due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to the hiring manager.
Salary : $680