This position is only open to individuals in the local area of Las Vegas, NM.

Background

Spanish for ‘the meadows,’ Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge’s dates as far back as 8,000 BC when early North Americans inhabited the high plains area. The area is full of rich history, and you can even catch a glimpse of the famous Hermit's Peak here!

Strategically located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the edge of El Llano Estacado, the 8,672-acre refuge overlaps three unique landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains and eastern prairies. This combination of habitats provides a haven for many species of wildlife, all of which you can enjoy! 

Las Vegas NWR is part of the Northern New Mexico NWR Complex, which also includes Maxwell and Rio Mora NWRs.

Volunteer Position

The Northern New Mexico NWR Complex strives to maintain a Queer/LGBTQA+ and BIPOC-friendly space and work environment. Working and living at this station requires the ability to work with, take direction from, and live near people of all ages, backgrounds, and personality types. Positive outlooks and flexibility are key to success at this refuge complex.

We are seeking individuals General Services volunteers throughout the year. We are flexible on timeframes and dates of volunteering. 

The General Services Volunteer Position requires that each individual work at least 4 hours per week and be from the local area to Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge has maintenance, biology, and visitor services needs. Duties will depend on each volunteer's experience and interest, but common duties may include; maintaining facilities (visitor center, tour loop, parking areas and vault toilets, trails and maintenance shop/yard), assisting farming program (if volunteer has heavy equipment certification they can assist with mowing and planting pivots), landscaping, staffing the visitor center, outreach and education, assisting with wildlife surveys (waterfowl, elk, etc), assisting with water delivery, and assisting the other refuges within in the Complex.

Important Information to Know:

General Services Volunteers can be working in a wide variety of conditions out on the refuge and other refuges within the Northern NM Refuge Complex, so we ask that they are prepared to be in the sun or snow with the proper supplies for the day. We do provide volunteer uniforms, but water and other supplies should be provided by volunteer.