RV Volunteer: Hunting Control Station Front Desk

Overview 

Patuxent Research Refuge, located in Laurel, Maryland, is the nation’s only national wildlife refuge established to support wildlife research. The refuge manages more than 13,000 acres of forests, meadows, and wetlands, and hosts a high‑demand public hunting program that supports wildlife management goals while offering safe recreational opportunities. The RV Hunt Control Station volunteers will be helping refuge staff oversee seasonal hunt operations. 

Volunteers support the Refuge’s mission by ensuring safe, organized hunts, providing clear communication to hunters, and assisting staff with field operations across refuge-managed lands. 

Location 

Patuxent Research Refuge 

230 Bald Eagle Drive,

Laurel, Maryland 20708

Work Schedule 

• 24 hours per week per person 
• Typical schedule: 3 days on / 4 days off 
• Additional hours may be requested during the peak hunt season or special events 

Accommodations 

RV parking on a gravel, 30-amp power (50 amps with adapter), water, septic, parking for an additional vehicle. Pets allowed but must remain leashed and supervised when outside.  

Preferred Commitment:

90 days 

Arrival/Departure Window 

Flexible, September, 2027 to January 2028 

Additional housing eligibility guidance: 

• Volunteers must be 18 or older 
• Volunteers must not live within 50 miles of the duty station 

Primary Responsibilities 

• Staff hunt check‑in stations during authorized hunt days 
• Greet hunters, verify permits, confirm compliance with program rules, and answer questions 
• Use refuge maps and orientation materials to communicate boundary rules and safety zones 
• Monitor area around hunt station 
• Complete daily logs, data sheets, and incident reports 
• Support refuge outreach  
• Optional: Assist staff with maintenance related projects (sign installation etc.) 

Secondary Responsibilities

• Assist Visitor Services staff during non-hunt days (optional), including the visitor center, environmental education programs, or special events 
• Help maintain hunt infrastructure: kiosks, parking lots, signs, and equipment 
• Support general refuge upkeep such as litter pickup, light maintenance, or trail checks 

Training Provided 

• All volunteers will receive training consistent with federal volunteer management guidance: 
• Orientation to refuge mission, staff, and hunting program structure 
• Safety protocols and emergency procedures 
• Customer service and communication skills 
• Data recording and permit verification procedures 
• Job Hazard Analysis review and required PPE (provided by refuge) 
• Prior experience with hunting programs, wildlife management, or public engagement is helpful but not required. 

Physical Demands 

• Ability to sit for extended periods 
• Light walking  
• Optional: Occasional lifting of equipment (10–20 lbs) 

Additional Information 

• Preference is given to two-person RV volunteer teams due to workload demand 
• Volunteers must adhere to DOI Code of Conduct and refuge-specific safety and behavior policies  

How to Apply 

• Submit your Volunteer.gov application and include: 
  • Contact information 
  • Summary of experience relevant to hunting programs, outdoor recreation, customer service, or wildlife work 
  • Whether you are applying as an individual or a two-person team