Individual Placement-Alaska-Minerals and Geology

Position Summary 

As a Minerals and Geology placement you will assist a small team of scientists with all aspects of minerals administration and geologic surveys on the Chugach National Forest. This is a spectacular region with towering glaciated peaks, turquoise ocean fjords, coastal rainforest, and alpine tundra. The dynamic, subarctic coastal environment brings long summer days and a pleasant climate that is unmatched in North America.

The Minerals and Geology Program manages both locatable (valuable minerals such as gold) and salable (common variety minerals such as sand and gravel) minerals across all three Districts. You will assist staff with field inspections of active mining operations (often small suction dredge operations in streams) and gravel pits (along roadways). You will participate in abandoned mine lands reclamation projects by helping remove non-hazardous campsites. There will also be opportunities to gain knowledge of geologic hazards by collecting data on landslides in receding glacial environments across the Forest.

Location 

Seward, AK

Schedule 

May 17, 2026 - September 5, 2026

*The start and end dates are flexible. Please inquire during interview.

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

This is primarily a field-going position which requires hiking both on and off trail, climbing and descending steep and uneven terrain, working in wet and inclement weather, and working in bear country.

Specific duties include:

· Assist program staff with inspections of authorized mining operations. Field inspections can require hiking over rough, steep and uneven terrain, bushwhacking, wading in creeks and streams, operating ATVs, riding mountain bikes, and riding in boats and helicopters. All safety training, gear and equipment will be provided.

· Collect geospatial data in the field using a tablet with the ArcGIS Field Maps and Survey 123 applications.

· Take photos and detailed notes for inspection reports.

· Write thorough inspection reports that include concise observations, maps, and photos for all aspects of the mining operation.

· Make recommendations for followup with operators based on inspection findings.

· Assist program staff with inventory of abandoned mining equipment for clean-up.

· Assist program staff with clean-up of abandoned mining equipment and structure demolition. Work could include packing out trash, hauling loads with ATVs, packaging loads for helicopter transport, and operating hand and power tools for demolition of cabins and temporary camps.

· Assist program staff with regular inspections of gravel pits to ensure that operators are complying with permit stipulations.

· Assist program staff with regular checks and maintenance of gates and locks.

· Assist program staff with maintenance of instruments monitoring slow ground movement at landslides above glaciers.

Marginal Duties 

This position may occasionally assist other programs such as fisheries, wildlife, and ecology, including data collection. Occasional backcountry camping will be required and field sites may be accessed by helicopter. Some office hours every week will be dedicated to report writing and data entry.

Required Qualifications 

The incumbent should be willing to work in challenging Alaskan environments and enjoy being outside in all types of weather and terrain. They should possess good organizational, observational, and communication skills, and some knowledge of geology, hydrology, or physical science is preferred. Ability to work with limited direction and make good decisions in the outdoors is desired. Work will typically be in small groups of 2-4 persons so effective teamwork skills are a must.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications 

A background in earth or physical science is desirable but not required.

Hours 

40 per week, though some weeks may require more when travel, fieldwork, or special projects require. Hours are typically 8 – 10 hours per day, generally Monday – Friday, though willingness to be flexible is important.

Living Accommodations 

A USFS bunkhouse/cabin is available for approximately $9.37/day. A monthly housing stipend is provided to cover this cost. Intern may have their own room or shared with another, depending on seasonal availability. Common areas such as kitchen and living spaces are shared. Intern may occasionally camp in tents during overnight field missions and per diem expenses are paid.

A personal vehicle is not required and government vehicles may be available to use for grocery shopping in nearby Seward. Limited public transportation is available but ridesharing with other employees is common

Compensation  

$450/week living allowance

$310/month housing allowance

$1300 one-time roundtrip travel stipend

$500 duty-related reimbursements for gear

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

Not Needed

Additional Benefits 

Bear Safety

Defensive Driving Training

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.