The American Conservation Experience (ACE), in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), is officially recruiting for the 2026 Refuge Support Fellowship at the Coastal Delaware National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
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This year-long immersion is a career-defining opportunity for conservation-minded individuals to work within two of the most ecologically significant sites on the Atlantic Flyway: Bombay Hook and Prime Hook. Designed to bridge the gap between academic study and federal employment, this fellowship provides hands-on experience in visitor services, biological monitoring, and land management, all while offering a competitive weekly stipend.
Coastal Delaware Refuge Fellowship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | American Conservation Experience (ACE) |
| Partner Agency | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) |
| Duration | 52-Week Commitment (April 2026 – April 2027) |
| Allowance | $650 per week (Living Allowance) |
| Eligible Countries | U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents |
| Application Deadline | February 28, 2026 |
About the Coastal Delaware National Wildlife Refuge Complex
This fellowship offers a split 50/50 experience between two legendary refuges. Bombay Hook NWR, established in 1937, is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and a globally recognized birding hotspot. Prime Hook NWR protects over 10,000 acres of freshwater and saltwater wetlands along the Delaware Bay. As a member, you will play a vital role in protecting these “inviolate sanctuaries” for migratory birds while managing pollinator habitats and engaging thousands of visitors through environmental education.
Benefits of Coastal Delaware Refuge Fellowship 2026
- Tier 1 (Financial): A consistent weekly living allowance of $650 to cover food and incidental expenses.
- Tier 2 (Professional Authority): Eligibility for the Public Land Corps (PLC) Hiring Authority, providing a non-competitive path to federal jobs upon completion of 640 service hours.
- Tier 3 (Equipment): Up to $200 gear reimbursement for essential field equipment such as boots, socks, and tactical pants.
- Tier 4 (Development): Direct mentorship from FWS staff, specialized training in invasive species management, GPS data collection, and shorebird identification.
Eligibility & Requirements for Coastal Delaware Refuge Fellowship 2026
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Age & Licensing: Must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
- Education: Ideally holding or pursuing a 2-year or 4-year degree in Biology, Natural Resources, or Ecology.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to hike over rough terrain, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, and insects).
- Commitment: Willingness to complete a full 52-week term of service starting in April 2026.
Step-by-Step Application Guide for Coastal Delaware National Wildlife Refuge Fellowship 2026
- Resume Update: Ensure your resume highlights any experience with field tools, data collection (iPads/GPS), or public outreach.
- Cover Letter Prep: Write a cover letter demonstrating your motivation for federal land management and your interest in the Delaware coastal ecosystem.
- Reference Selection: Gather contact information for three professional or academic references.
- Online Submission: Visit the ACE Application Pool and upload your single PDF package.
- Early Consideration: Apply as soon as possible, as ACE reviews applications on a rolling basis and may close the position before the deadline.
- Background Check: Be prepared to undergo a standard criminal history check as required for FWS partners.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a remote interview with ACE and FWS staff.
Expert Advice for Coastal Delaware Refuge Fellowship 2026 Applicants (STAR/SMART Methods)
- Use the SMART Method: When describing your goals, be Specific about the skills you want to gain (e.g., “Mastering ArcGIS Pro for invasive species mapping”).
- Apply the STAR Technique: In your cover letter, describe a Situation where you had to work independently in a field setting, the Task you were assigned, the Action you took to ensure safety/accuracy, and the Result.
- Highlight “Visitor Services”: While biological work is part of the role, the position is heavily focused on community outreach. Emphasize your ability to engage enthusiastically with the public.
- Emphasize Flexibility: The schedule may include weekends and holidays to accommodate refuge events; showing a flexible attitude is a major plus during selection.
Application Deadline: February 28, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
FAQ Section for Coastal Delaware Refuge Fellowship 2026
Is housing provided? No, housing is not provided; members are responsible for finding local accommodations in Delaware.
What is the weekly salary? It is a living allowance of $650 per week.
Do I need to be 21? Yes, because you will be required to drive ACE/FWS vehicles.
Is this a permanent job? No, it is a 52-week fellowship, though it provides a path to permanent federal hiring.
What kind of work will I do? 50% visitor services/outreach and 50% maintenance, invasive species removal, and shorebird monitoring.
Will I get training? Yes, position-specific orientation and safety training are provided.
Is there a gear allowance? Yes, a $200 reimbursement for approved field gear.
Where are the refuges located? Smyrna (Bombay Hook) and Milton (Prime Hook), Delaware.
When is the start date? April 6, 2026.
Where can I get more conservation alerts? Join the Scholarship Region WhatsApp groups for updates on environmental fellowships.
