Summer-Fall 2026 RV Volunteer - Visitor Center Assistant

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge is recruiting dedicated resident volunteers for the 2026 summer/fall season (June-October) to support operations at the Visitor Center and Bookstore, maintain the native garden, assist with light maintenance activities, and—if desired—participate in public educational programming. This position plays an important role in welcoming visitors and supporting refuge operations. Exact days of week on duty may vary, but generally include working on weekends. Position start and end dates are negotiable.

Site Description

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge protects nearly 19,000 acres of relict boreal forest and the largest wetland complex in Central Appalachia. Enjoy cool summers, gorgeous fall colors, and stunning mountain views. The refuge offers over 34 miles of trails to explore, adding to the hundreds of miles of trails found in neighboring public lands—truly a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The refuge is located just 10 miles from restaurants, groceries, and other amenities, and only 3 hours from Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

Duties and Responsibilities

•  Open and close Visitor Center, stock supplies, sell items in bookstore, and operate cash register.
•  As a public point of contact, greet visitors and answer phone calls to concisely explain important refuge information and regulations including trip planning and orientation, refuge purpose and mission, safety, and rules.
• Replenish exterior information kiosks and bulletin boards.
• Maintain the Visitor Center’s native garden, including weeding, mulching, planting, and mowing.
• Perform light trail maintenance and report more complex maintenance issues to refuge staff.
• Assist with on- and off-site interpretive programming and outreach events.

Qualifications

• Experience interacting professionally with the public in a fast-paced environment, both in person and over the phone.
• Ability to quickly learn and accurately communicate refuge-specific information about recreational activities, rules, policies, and safety information.
• Comfortable with operating a cash register, processing sales transactions, and reconciling a cash drawer.
• Punctual, dependable, and capable of following opening/closing procedures and maintaining a clean, organized visitor area.

Working Environment and Safety Considerations

Work is typically performed either inside the air-conditioned visitor center or outside it when tending to the garden. Summar and fall temperatures range from 30°F to 85°F. Volunteers working outside may be exposed to weather conditions including direct sunlight, heat, humidity, and rain; as well as biting or stinging insects. Risks include cuts, scrapes, bruises, and burns. Personal Protective Equipment will be provided as needed.

Hours and Time Commitment

24/hours/week of service for couples, and 32 hours/week for individuals.

Housing and Amenities

A gravel RV pad is available with electric (30/50), water, and sewer hookups. The site is situated at the foot of Cabin Mountain overlooking an open field. Laundry facilities are available onsite. Pets are allowed but must not be left outside unattended.

Age and Uniform Requirements

Must be over the age of 21 to use certain equipment. All volunteers are required to wear an official volunteer uniform. Volunteers will be provided with a set of shirts. Volunteers must provide their own pants/jeans/shorts and choose appropriate clothing for each task and weather. Volunteers must wear closed-toe shows when on duty.

When applying, please provide contact information from two professional references from your most recent employment, camp host, and/or volunteer position.

Please contact [email protected] if you have questions.