Position: Habitat Restoration Seasonal Associate

Schedule: Seasonal, temporary position (July 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026). Typical schedule of 3–4 days per week, with the potential for up to 40 hours per week depending on program needs. Occasional evenings, weekends, and overnight trips may be required.

Compensation: $22–$25/hour, depending on experience. This position is classified as non-exempt and is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with applicable state and federal law.

Benefits: This seasonal position includes paid time off (PTO) in accordance with organizational policy and applicable law. This role is not eligible for additional employer-sponsored benefits. The associate will be compensated at the federal rate for mileage driven to and from work sites when using a personal vehicle. 

Reports to: Restoration Associate and Co-Executive Director

About Willamette Riverkeeper

Willamette Riverkeeper is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Willamette River’s water quality and habitat. We operate throughout the Willamette Basin, with offices in Portland and Eugene, and conservation properties across multiple counties. Our work includes habitat restoration, invasive species removal, environmental education, paddling programs, and policy advocacy.

The Willamette River flows through the traditional homelands of many Indigenous peoples, including the Multnomah, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Chinook, Tualatin, Kalapuya, and Molalla tribes. We are committed to ongoing collaboration with Tribal communities and to supporting work that reflects accurate historical understanding and inclusive conservation practices.

Position Overview

This seasonal position provides hands-on experience in habitat restoration and environmental stewardship. The Seasonal Associate will work closely with staff to build skills in restoration techniques, including native plant installation, invasive species management, monitoring, and basic project documentation.

The role is primarily field-based and includes travel along the river by canoe or kayak. The position may include participation in 1–2 overnight trips focused on site-based learning and restoration work. Training, equipment, and meals for overnight trips will be provided. All field activities are supervised by staff and may include volunteers. The schedule for this position is not a 9-5 job and will require flexibility and longer days. For example, this may look like 4 long field days followed by 3 days off. 

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with habitat restoration activities on and off water, including invasive species removal and native plant work
• Support aquatic invasive species surveys using canoes or kayaks
• Collect, record, and enter field data, including use of GIS-based tools as applicable
• Document restoration progress through repeat photography (photopoints)
• Assist with public outreach during field operations and contractor-led activities
• Provide general support for mapping, reporting, and project documentation, depending on skill level

Minimum Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license, good driving record and access to reliable transportation for travel between field sites
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and uneven terrain
• Experience paddling on moving water in a canoe or kayak, and water/field-based activities. 
• Ability to follow safety protocols and work both independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or coursework in environmental science, ecology, restoration, or a related field
• Familiarity with plant identification, GIS tools, or field data collection methods

Work Environment & Physical Requirements: This position involves regular outdoor fieldwork in variable weather conditions, including heat, rain, and uneven terrain. Duties may include paddling, lifting and carrying equipment, repetitive physical tasks, and extended periods of standing, bending, or walking. Overnight travel may be required on a limited basis.

Who You Are: You are dependable, adaptable, and interested in gaining hands-on experience in restoration and environmental stewardship. You communicate respectfully with staff, volunteers, and community members, and are comfortable working both independently and as part of a team. You are organized, willing to learn, and committed to safe and responsible field practices.

Position Goals: This role is designed to build practical skills and provide exposure to Willamette Riverkeeper’s programs and operations. The Seasonal Associate will gain experience with field tools and techniques, including watercraft, restoration equipment, and monitoring methods.