Position Overview:
The NorthWoods Stewardship Center is hiring two (2) Champlain Valley Seed Crew Members to work with Conservation Science staff and partner organizations on grant funded statewide seed collection projects and direct seeding experiments to improve wildlife habitat and water quality along rivers and streams. This position will be based out of the Intervale Center in Burlington, VT.

Projects during the 2026 season will include:

• Seed Sourcing Project – this includes the identification and documentation of potential seed sources for target riparian floodplain species and the collection, processing, storage, and distribution of seeds on restoration projects.
• Intervale Conservation Nursery – this includes propagation, transplanting and bareroot harvest of native plants. Additional tasks may include weeding, washing plant tubes, and harvest of livestakes and fascines.

Through these projects, the Champlain Valley Seed Crew members will gain experience in the implementation of on-the-ground projects that are valuable to the restoration and enhancement of riparian habitats and will build connections among partners to develop their network within this field.

Responsibilities and Expectations:

• Ensure that NorthWoods is a resource for the community for high-quality professional services, programming, facilities, and expertise.
• Maintain good communication and professional working relationships with NorthWoods staff, program participants, partners, and the general public.
• Work independently and with coworkers to produce project outcomes on schedule.
• Adhere to all NorthWoods procedures and policies related to staff conduct, safety, and project implementation.
• Engage in professional development activities, as needed, to stay current with necessary job skills and knowledge.
• Attend meetings, workshops, and special events as necessary to represent NorthWoods and support conservation science programs.
• Complete other general support tasks for the organization as needed, including maintenance, weekend and evening hours, etc.
• Maintain NorthWoods and Intervale tools and equipment in good working condition.
• Keep work sites organized and safe.
• Ensure that offices, barn, woodshop, storage areas, lodge, etc. are clean, usable, and appealing to visitors.

Qualifications:

• College degree in environmental science or related field OR equal experience that demonstrates the ability to think critically about riparian ecosystem health and habitat restoration.
• Work and/or academic (research, internship, etc.) experience in conservation.
• Knowledge of northeastern tree and shrub identification (seeds, buds, leaves, and bark).
• Ability to lead others in fieldwork activities and manage time effectively.
• Knowledge of riparian habitat features, ecosystem health indicators.
• Experience communicating with the public on topics of conservation, nature, wildlife, etc.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Physical fitness and positive attitude to thrive in an outdoor setting for extended periods in varied weather.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work with a diverse range of people to accomplish a shared goal.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain focus while performing repetitive seed collection, processing, and storage tasks.

Preferred Skills / Knowledge:

• Knowledge of seed collecting, processing, and storage methods.
• Knowledge of common invasive species to the northeast, specifically Vermont.
• Ability to work independently in the field leading groups and to make adjustments to plans as necessary.
• Ability to create high-quality finished products with minimal oversight and good attention to detail.
• Simple hand tool proficiency and carpentry skills.
• Safety-consciousness and situational awareness.
• Preference given to candidates with prior, positive experience at NorthWoods.

Please consider applying for this position even if you do not meet all the qualifications, or currently possess the preferred skills and knowledge. The review committee values a wide range of experience and education related to this position, and NorthWoods is committed to professional development to train the best candidate.

Employment Details:

Employment Period: Apr 15, 2026-Jul 17, 2026 (14 weeks)

Workweek: 40 hours per week, on average, typically M-F, with occasional weekend and evenings needed.

Compensation: $18.50 – $20/hour, based on experience and paid biweekly.

Benefits: This position is eligible for a gear stipend of $100, half paid in the first week and half paid in the final week of the season. Employment at NorthWoods include personal use of outdoor equipment, wood shop, and access to gear lending library. This position is eligible for two days of Paid Time Off (PTO).

Housing: Staff housing is not available for this position

Reports to: Brooke Fleischman, Statewide Seed Coordinator & Jess Colby, Riparian Lands Program Coordinator

How to Apply: Email cover letter and resume to science@northwoodscenter.org 

Hiring Timeline: Applications will be accepted and reviewed until December 18th, 2025. Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis starting on January 12, 2026.

If assistance is needed during the application process, please do not hesitate to contact
NorthWoods for support. Please reach out to Meg Carter, meghann@northwoodscenter.org  or (802) 723-6551 x302.

Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NorthWoods:

People of every race, color, gender, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, religion, belief system and background are encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodation will be made for applicants with disabilities.  NorthWoods believes that diversity in our workplace is essential to building vibrant human and natural communities and strives to provide opportunities for everyone without discrimination.

About NorthWoods

NorthWoods Stewardship Center is a non-profit conservation and education organization based in East Charleston, Vermont.  We serve the communities of Northern Vermont and New Hampshire, as well as facilitating conservation projects and programs throughout New England.  Our main lodge and facilities are part of a 1,500 acre conserved campus and demonstration forest, open to the public, year-round. We achieve our mission to connect people and place through the synergy of four program areas:  Environmental Education, the Conservation Corps, Conservation Science, and Forest Stewardship. Learn more about us.