About Friends of the Great Swamp

Friends of the Great Swamp or “FrOGS” is a non-profit conservation organization founded in 1990 to preserve and protect the health of New York’s Great Swamp ecosystem. The Great Swamp is one of the largest and most vulnerable freshwater wetlands in the state, covering over 6,700 acres of riparian corridor in eastern Dutchess and Putnam counties. This vast wetland system has long been recognized as an ecological treasure and conservation priority by government agencies and national NGOs alike. In addition to its vital role in water purification, flood control, and aquifer recharge, the Great Swamp provides habitat for a remarkable diversity of plants and animals, including many critically imperiled species. FrOGS works to preserve the wetland’s rich biodiversity through ecological field surveys and monitoring, habitat management, and invasive species control. You can learn more about FrOGS and the work we do at: https://frogs-ny.org/

About the Position

FrOGS is seeking an Intern / entry-level Field Technician to assist with invasive species control efforts at one of our Preserves in Dover, New York. In this role, you will assist with several management actions aimed at controlling purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) within the site’s sensitive rich sloping fen and rich graminoid fen communities. This work will include (1) the cutting and removal of mature stems prior to seed set, (2) hand-weeding of seedlings from select areas of the fen, and (3) the on-site rearing (if needed) and release of two species of biocontrol beetles. You will also assist with a related project that involves the cutting and removal of dead stems of common reed (Phragmites australis) to enhance habitat quality and function. While the projects highlighted above will likely fill most of the position’s allotted time, there may be opportunities to contribute to some of our other field projects depending on your interests. This could include rare turtle tracking, soil and water sampling, vegetation monitoring, photo-documentation of habitat conditions, and/or the collection of seed and propagule material from vascular plants and mosses.

Required Qualifications

• In the process of completing, or have recently completed, a Bachelors degree in Natural Resources, Ecology, Plant Science or a related field
• A combination of practical experience and a passion for invasive species or habitat management will also be considered in lieu of academic training
• Interest in applied conservation biology and ecological field work
• High tolerance for mundane and repetitive tasks (e.g., cutting and weeding invasives)
• Ability to follow directions and work without direct supervision
• Valid drivers license and access to reliable transportation for travel to the project site

‘Nice-to-have’ Qualifications

• Prior experience conducting ecological surveys or field research is a plus
• Ability to correctly identify common wetland invasive plants is a plus
• Coursework in wetland ecology, field biology, or botany is a plus
• Training or certification in wilderness first aid is a plus

Physical Requirements

• Comfortable working under challenging field conditions (e.g., mucky wetland soils, knee-deep water, heat, humidity, rain, stinging and biting insects, etc.)
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and kneel for long periods of time and in uneven terrain, including on elevated platforms or walkways
• Comfortable working with simple hand and power tools including a battery-powered hedge trimmer
• Ability to lift and carry bulky items weighing up to 25 lbs for half a mile (e.g., large contractor bags filled with cut plant material)

Compensation:  $18 - 20/hr based on experience, no benefits

Hours:  up to 40 hours/week (some flexibility on days & hours worked per week)

Start / End Dates:  July 7 to August 15, 2025 (possibility of extension based on availability)