Position Overview:     

Watershed Crew Members will work with Conservation Science staff and partners on grant-funded projects relating to wildlife habitat, water quality improvements, and public accessibility on state-owned riparian lands in Vermont.

Main projects include the installation of infiltration steps, encapsulated soil lifts, shoreline gardens, open-top culverts, riparian buffers, rain gardens, bioswales, and other practices designed to treat stormwater and improve water quality in surface waters

Through these projects, the Watershed Crew Member will gain experience in water quality project implementation, as well as building skills in communicating with landowners, other conservation organizations/ professionals, and the public. 

Responsibilities and Expectations: 

• Work as part of a team to implement a variety of water quality improvement projects.
• Maintain NorthWoods tools and equipment in good working condition; keep work sites organized and safe.
• Engage with training opportunities provided and apply knowledge and skills to the completion of set tasks
• 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
• Attend meetings, workshops and special events as necessary to represent NorthWoods and support conservation science programs.

Qualifications:

• College degree in environmental science or related field OR field experience that demonstrates the ability to think critically about riparian ecosystem health and habitat restoration and implement projects with conservation goals in that setting
• Ability to stay focused and on-track during repetitive tasks such as tree planting, hand-pulling of invasive weeds, arranging stones, or building step structures.
• Physical fitness and positive attitude  to thrive in an outdoor setting for extended periods  in varied weather and conditions
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work with a diverse range of people to accomplish a shared goal

Preferred Skills/Knowledge:

• Ability to produce high-quality project deliverables with limited oversight and good attention to detail
• Simple hand tool proficiency and carpentry skills
• Safety-consciousness and situational awareness
• Valid Driver’s License
• 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. 

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 at www.northwoodscenter.org. 

Employment Period: April 27th – June 30th, 2023. Spring seasonal position. 

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

Compensation: $16.50-$17.50/hour, paid biweekly

Housing: Options may be available for on-campus housing; rental rates TBD 

Reports to: Meg Carter, Conservation Science Director