Aquatic Invasive Species Field Manager CT

Seasonal position – 25 hours/week (0.6 FTE)

Start Date: 04/15/2025

End Date: 9/05/2025

Location: Middletown, CT / Field work in Glastonbury and Middletown

Health Benefit Eligible: No

Retirement Benefit Eligible: Yes

Supervisor: Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager

Position classification: Seasonal

Pay: $22/hour

Position Description

The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) seeks a motivated individual to facilitate the removal and monitoring of invasive species, such as water chestnut and hydrilla in the Connecticut River Watershed in Connecticut. Scheduling and coordinating water chestnut pulling events will be the primary purpose of this role, with support from 2-3 field staff. The Field Manager will schedule 3- 4 staff pull days a week, depending on team schedule. They will also organize weekly volunteer pulling events on Saturday. These events last around 4 hours, from time of meeting to time of departure, including time for an orientation and securing boats onto vehicles. This work takes place on several water bodies located in Glastonbury and Middletown. Kayaks and all other necessary supplies are provided to staff. This position requires access to a car and mileage accrued while working will be reimbursed at the IRS rate.

In addition, the field manager will coordinate with partners across the state to support our watershed-wide water chestnut removal efforts; they will be asked to assist in the monitoring of infested locations, participate in partner volunteer events, assist with disposal of the invasive species, participate in water quality monitoring initiatives and provide resources for our partners. Each of these programs relies on volunteer participation and, as such, the field manager should be comfortable coordinating volunteer events.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Host water chestnut pull events and recruit and coordinate volunteers.
• Volunteer management may include individual volunteers, school groups and community groups.
• Collect and submit data from every pulling or scouting event for invasive species removal and spread.
• Participate in stakeholder meetings.
• Coordinate pulling events or other relevant restoration projects with external partners.
• Transport equipment (canoes/kayaks/trailers) to various work sites and drive a Jon boat as needed.
• Make events planning decisions based on weather and other conditions to consider.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for the environment, some knowledge of invasive plant management, have paddling experience, and enjoy recruiting and managing volunteers working from boats. This person will be responsible for executing on-water volunteer hand-pulling events between May and August 2025 in conjunction with partner groups, as well as ensure that all data is maintained and can be effectively utilized both internally and by agency and project partners.

The work will be supervised and supported out of CRC’s Middletown, CT headquarters. Work is anticipated to begin in late April and conclude the first week of September – this schedule may vary depending on the growth of water chestnut which is dependent on water temperature. Workdays can be subject to weather cancellation. Boats and equipment are provided.

Qualifications

We understand that many folks who may be impacted by biased hiring standards, such as women, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQIA and BIPOC applicants, may only apply if they meet every requirement listed in a job posting. If you are interested in this opportunity and believe you meet most of the job requirements, we encourage you to apply.

Position Requirements:

• Interest for the environment and river ecology
• Paddling and motor boating experience
• A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle
• Completion of CT’s Safe Boating or Personal Watercraft Operation Certificate or willingness to complete the course
• Ability to participate in strenuous physical activity outdoors and lift 50 pounds

Location: 

Middletown, CT / Field work in Glastonbury and Middletown

Salary and benefits:

$22/hr

Application instructions:

Please apply at Aquatic Invasive Species Field Manager CT | ctriver.org

Interviews will take place in late March or early April.

Deadline to apply:

March 7th, 2025

Overview of the Organization:

The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. CRC has been a steward of the Connecticut River and tributary streams since 1952. Their programs include advocacy, aquatic invasive species management, dam removal, habitat restoration, migratory fish surveys, recreation, trash cleanups, and water quality monitoring. Together through community engagement and education, they’re dedicated to ensuring equitable access and healthy rivers for all. 

Our organizational values are inclusion, collaboration, resilience, and stewardship.