Peregrine Falcon Observation & Visitor Outreach Volunteer

Description

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is seeking energetic and friendly people to serve as Peregrine Falcon Observation volunteers. Harpers Ferry NHP is looking for volunteers that have a passion for bird watching and will give visitors great visitor experiences. Volunteers will need to provide their own personal pair of binoculars.

Major Duties

• Observe and report Peregrine Falcon activity.
• Educate visitors about the Peregrine Falcons
• Document Peregrine Falcon Activity.
• Greet Park visitors.
• Provide excellent customer service and accurate information to park visitors.
• Educate visitors on the park and safety concerns.
• Monitor and report all safety concerns to park staff.
• Let visitors know about Temporary Closures around the Peregrine Falcons Nesting Area.

Other Duties

Occasionally, volunteers may be asked to conduct an informal bird walk or presentation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

Some knowledge of birds within Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and the outside areas.

Have some skills in data collection and bird observation.

Ability to work independently with little to no supervision and as part of a team. 

Ability to research and communicate facts about resources at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Enjoy talking and meeting people.

Physical Demands 

Requires sitting and standing or walking for long periods of time. Some light to moderate lifting may be required.

Work Environment 

Volunteers will interact with the public and park staff. Most duties will be to observe and report the Peregrine Falcons activity. Volunteers should be skilled hikers to hike to remote areas in the park to observe and watch the Peregrine Falcons. Volunteers should also educate visitors about the Peregrine Falcons. Field work will be in a variety of weather conditions from hot and sunny, stormy weather, rain, cold, etc. Volunteers should stay hydrated and carry plenty of water and food. 

All appropriate training will be provided. Please keep in mind that observation work can make for long stretches of monotonous time. Long periods of walking/hiking and standing are required. 

Work Schedule

Volunteer shifts will vary in length. Please discuss your availability with your volunteer supervisor. This is flexible opportunity, with a low hours requirement per month. 

Prime observation times are at the start of the day for four hours after sunrise, and at the end of the day, four hours leading up to sunset.

Uniform

While on duty, the volunteer will wear an NPS volunteer polo, hats and name tag (provided). The volunteer will supply their own khaki pants. A Volunteer logo ball cap or other style hat provided with the VIP patch should be worn anytime the VIP is outdoors.