Aquatic Invasive Species Field Manager MA
Seasonal position – 25 hours/week (0.6 FTE)
Start Date: 04/15/2025
End Date: 9/15/2025
Location: Greenfield, MA / Field work in Northampton and Holyoke, MA
Health Benefit Eligible: No
Retirement Benefit Eligible: Yes
Supervisor: Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager
Position classification: Seasonal
Pay: $22/hour
Position Description
The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) seeks a motivated individual to facilitate the removal and monitoring of invasive species, such as water chestnut and hydrilla in the Connecticut River Watershed in Massachusetts. Scheduling and coordinating water chestnut pulling events will be the primary purpose of this role, with support from 2-3 field staff. The Field Manager will schedule 3- 4 staff pull days a week, depending on team schedule. They will also organize weekly volunteer pulling events on Saturday. These events last around 4 hours, from time of meeting to time of departure, including time for an orientation and securing boats onto vehicles. This work takes place on several water bodies located in Northampton, Easthampton, Hatfield, Hadley, South Hadley, Holyoke, and Chicopee. Kayaks and all other necessary supplies are provided to staff. This position requires access to a car and mileage accrued while working will be reimbursed at the IRS rate.
In addition, the field manager will coordinate with partners across the state to support our watershed-wide water chestnut removal efforts; they will be asked to assist in the monitoring of infested locations, participate in partner volunteer events, assist with disposal of the invasive species, participate in water quality monitoring initiatives and provide resources for our partners. Each of these programs relies on volunteer participation and, as such, the field manager should be comfortable coordinating volunteer events.
Primary Responsibilities:
Host water chestnut pull events and recruit and coordinate volunteers.
Volunteer management may include individual volunteers, school groups and community groups.
Collect and submit data from every pulling or scouting event for invasive species removal and spread.
Participate in stakeholder meetings.
Coordinate pulling events or other relevant restoration projects with external partners.
Transport equipment (canoes/kayaks/trailers) to various work sites and drive a Jon boat as needed.
Make events planning decisions based on weather and other conditions to consider.
The ideal candidate will have a passion for the environment, some knowledge of invasive plant management, have paddling experience, and enjoy recruiting and managing volunteers working from boats. This person will be responsible for executing on-water volunteer hand-pulling events between May and August 2025 in conjunction with partner groups, as well as ensure that all data is maintained and can be effectively utilized both internally and by agency and project partners.
The work will be supervised and supported out of CRC’s Greenfield, MA headquarters. Work is anticipated to begin in late April and conclude the mid-September – this schedule may vary depending on the growth of water chestnut which is dependent on water temperature. Workdays can be subject to weather cancellation. Boats and equipment are provided.
Qualifications
We understand that many folks who may be impacted by biased hiring standards, such as women, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC applicants, may only apply if they meet every requirement listed in a job posting. If you are interested in this opportunity and believe you meet most of the job requirements, we encourage you to apply.
Position Requirements:
Interest for the environment and river ecology
Paddling and motor boating experience
A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle
Completion of MA’s boater safety certificate or willingness to complete the course
Ability to participate in strenuous physical activity outdoors and lift 50 pounds
Location:
Greenfield, MA / Field work in Northampton and Holyoke, MA
Salary and benefits:
$22/hr
Application instructions:
To apply for the position, use the form below and include a resume and cover letter (as one combined PDF). Please use your cover letter to briefly describe how your qualifications and experience make you a good fit for this role.
Interviews will take place in late March or early April.
Deadline to apply:
March 7th, 2025
Overview of the Organization:
The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. CRC has been a steward of the Connecticut River and tributary streams since 1952. Their programs include advocacy, aquatic invasive species management, dam removal, habitat restoration, migratory fish surveys, recreation, trash cleanups, and water quality monitoring. Together through community engagement and education, they’re dedicated to ensuring equitable access and healthy rivers for all.
Our organizational values are inclusion, collaboration, resilience, and stewardship.