What We Can Achieve Together:

The Sakonnet Conservation Assistant (SCA) performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance and management at locations within the Sakonnet region of Rhode Island including the towns of Little Compton and Tiverton. The SCA maintains preserve areas frequented by the visiting public, performs landscape management activities, assists in the stewardship of shorebird nesting areas, and serves as an ambassador for the environment on Nature Conservancy (TNC) preserves. The SCA may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This position requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.

The SCA will spend approximately 50% of their time on landscape management activities. Specific duties include trail maintenance and monitoring, vegetation control, invasive species removal, preserve signage and boardwalk installations, and maintenance of facilities. These activities will involve the use of power tools such as a brush cutter and lawnmower, and various handheld tools. The SCA will also communicate with preserve visitors to advance the public’s understanding of TNC’s mission.

The SCA will spend approximately 50% of their time assisting with the onsite stewardship of Piping Plover and Least Tern breeding areas along the Sakonnet shoreline. Stewardship includes the installation of fencing and predator deterrent structures which require physical endurance for the use of a short-handled sledgehammer and shovel; and for traversing cobbled terrain. The SCA will be a part of the team of staff and volunteers gathering data on shorebird breeding success and educating beach visitors on the management of nesting plover and tern, and the ecology of a coastal pond/barrier beach ecosystem.

The SCA works closely with the Sakonnet Landscape Manager, the Shorebird Program Manager, and other Conservancy staff, interns and volunteers.  The position is full-time, short-term, (35 hours/week) and is paid hourly.  It begins on April 20, 2026, and terminates August 28, 2026.  The SCA is supervised by the Conservancy’s Preserves Manager.  Housing is not provided. Please provide a resume and cover letter.                                                                

We’re Looking for You:

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who enjoys the outdoors, is passionate about conservation, and will be a voice for nature.

This is a great opportunity to grow in your conservation career and collaborate/network with other field professionals. If you want to make a difference and experience the beauty of nature where we work, we invite you to apply today!

What You’ll Bring:

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in a science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Experience operating various types of equipment safely and efficiently (e.g. brush cutter, lawn mower, or similar equipment).
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid & CPR).
• Must have independent means of travel to and from work sites.
• Position may require a background check, youth safety training, and a signed commitment to youth safety.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge and field experience in natural resource management and ornithology.
• Ability to work independently in remote areas.
• Ability to coordinate field work with team members.
• Ability to communicate with the public in a clear and professional manner.
• PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.
• Experience in data collection and analysis to produce written reports.

Salary Range

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $18.00 per hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.