Position Description: The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) is seeking a Seasonal Field Manager to oversee environmental restoration and community science programs in the Connecticut portion of the Connecticut River Watershed for the 2022 season. Field programs include the removal of invasive species, such as water chestnut and hydrilla in addition to supporting weekly recreation youth paddles in July. Each of these programs relies on volunteer participation and, as such, the Field manager should have experience and comfort with coordinating volunteer events.  This work takes place in several location including but not limited to: Glastonbury, Middletown, Hartford, Wethersfield, South Windsor, Essex and Lyme in Connecticut. The field manager must have transportation to these sites.

Position Responsibilities (April – August).

• Create field schedule for invasive removal, including contact with landowners, businesses, municipalities and agency to organize details of restoration work, access and scheduling. (10% of time)
• Work with CRC Ecology Planner and River Steward to provide organization and analysis of existing water chestnut data to create a five-year management plan for water chestnut management across the watershed. (20% of time)
• Actively build relationships and recruit volunteers. This includes partnering with organizations for special events and connecting with and supporting communities historically excluded from environmental and recreational opportunities (5%).
• Coordinate site logistics (boat access, plant pickup and disposal) with towns, landowners and other organizations (5%)
• Manage 2-3 seasonal staff to conduct field work, including CRC internal events as well as public volunteer opportunities (50%)
• Support River Steward and partners in pilot project to treat invasive hydrilla. (10%)

Position Requirements

• The ideal candidates will have a passion for the environment, have interest/experience paddling , and enjoy recruiting and managing volunteers
• Interest in river ecology and stewardship, and willingness to learn
• Strong communication skills, both written and interpersonal
• A valid driver’s license and transportation to field sites
• Ability to participate in strenuous physical activity
• Time management, including the ability to work independently both in the office/from home as well as on the river
• CPR and First Aid certification. If not already obtained, will be provided via CRC.

Hours & Compensation

• Work may occur in the evening and on weekends and begins April 18th, 2022 and continues through mid to late August. A kayak is provided as needed.
• April 18th – May 23rd 10 hours per week, working from home or office
• May 23rd – August 19th 25-  30 hours per week, mostly in the field.
• Pay is $20/hour

Application details

Deadline to apply: March 15th, 2022, or until position is filled.

Email Kelsey Wentling (she/her/hers pronouns) (kwentling@ctriver.org) a resume, a brief cover letter (< 1 page) describing your interest and experience; please combine documents into a single PDF. You do not need to have direct experience with river restoration, rather an passion for learning, working with others and the environment.

About Connecticut River Conservancy

Connecticut River Conservancy is the voice for the Connecticut River watershed, from source to sea. We collaborate with partners across four states to protect and advocate for your rivers and educate and engage communities. We bring people together to prevent pollution, improve habitat, and promote enjoyment of your river and its tributary streams. Healthy rivers support healthy economies.

CRC is an equal opportunity employer. We highly encourage members of communities historically excluded from the environmental field to apply, and we value the insights, knowledge and perspective that a diverse staff bring to our organization and work.