Meet the Manatee People
Meet Ms. Eileen Nunez:
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue
Married: Yes
Kids: No
Pets: No
University Graduated from:
Colby-Sawyer College, New London, NH, B.A., Biology
Job Title: Wildlife Interpretive Specialist/Volunteer Coordinator
Employer: U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Wildlife Refuge System
How long on job: 5 years at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.
Previous Job Experience: Intern, 3 months, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia
2 winter seasons at Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Florida
1 winter season at Arkansas National Wildlife Refuge, Texas
2 summer seasons at Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
1 summer season at Denali National Park, Alaska
Peace Corp volunteer, 3 years, Paraguay, South America
What my job is: I am responsible for coordinating education programs both on and off the refuge. I am responsible for the design and writing of brochures, interpretive signs, and outreach materials. I am in charge of the design and the text of refuge exhibits. I coordinate the volunteer program, including Manatee Watch volunteers, office volunteers, manatee rescue volunteers, interns, and full-time volunteers. I also initiate news releases concerning refuge activities.
What I like best about my job: Working with the public and students, and presenting educational slide programs and other presentations.
What don't like most about my job: Writing reports.
Advice for kids who would like to have a job like mine: It is important to study science, biology, math, and English. Volunteer at a park or refuge to gain experience. Be willing to work anywhere in the US . Work seasonal jobs without benefits for several years before you get a permanent job. Enroll in a college or university which offers a Cooperative Education Program.
Favorite Sport: Soccer, volleyball, swimming, snow skiing
Hobbies: Camping, reading, traveling
Favorite TV show: Wild Discovery
Favorite Movie: Of Mice and Men
Goals: My professional goals include achieving the position of Supervisory Interpretive Specialist. As a member of our Regional Outreach Team, I hope to work toward the goal of service consistency in literature, signs, uniforms, messages, etc. It is an ongoing goal to spread the Fish and Wildlife Service's message to the public. I desire that the public learns the importance of the National Wildlife Refuge System and its role in providing and protecting habitat for wildlife.