Fish & Wildlife Volunteer and Outdoor Jobs

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service manages 570 national wildlife refuges and 38 wetland management districts covering more than 150 million acres across all 50 states. Refuges protect critical habitat for migratory birds, endangered species, and native wildlife — and they offer some of the most rewarding and off-the-beaten-path positions in the federal volunteer host world.

Fish & Wildlife volunteer positions are typically based at visitor centers, wildlife observation areas, or campgrounds within a refuge. Paid positions — refuge aide, visitor services assistant, and similar roles — are posted through USAJOBS. Both types are listed below.

• Volunteer and paid positions at 570+ national wildlife refuges across all 50 states — from coastal estuaries to desert wetlands
• Roles include visitor center host, wildlife observation area assistant, environmental education aide, and refuge campground host
• Paid positions (refuge aide, visitor services assistant) are formal GS appointments posted through USAJOBS
• Volunteer positions may include a free campsite or on-site housing; benefits and accommodations vary widely by refuge

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of positions are available at national wildlife refuges?

Fish & Wildlife Service positions include visitor center host, wildlife observation area assistant, environmental education volunteer, campground host, and refuge maintenance aide. Paid positions are posted through USAJOBS; volunteer positions are managed by individual refuge offices and posted on Volunteer.gov.

Do Fish & Wildlife volunteer positions include housing or a campsite?

Campsite and housing availability vary widely by refuge. Some refuges have dedicated volunteer housing on refuge property. Others offer a campsite with hookups at a refuge campground. Many smaller refuges may not include on-site accommodations. Always review the specific listing.

Are wildlife refuges good places for full-time RVers?

Refuges can be excellent placements for RVers — particularly those with developed campgrounds or visitor centers that have designated host sites. The wildlife viewing can be extraordinary, and the work is focused on education and conservation. Research the specific refuge and nearby services before committing.

How do I apply for a Fish & Wildlife Service volunteer position?

Browse listings below — each volunteer position links to the official Volunteer.gov listing with contact information for the specific refuge. Paid positions link to USAJOBS, where you must apply before the listed closing date. Contact the refuge directly for volunteer positions to discuss your rig setup and seasonal availability.

HitchPath is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. Listings may come from official sources and employer submissions when available. Always review the official listing before applying.