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Block Island Marine Program Assistant

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube  or on Glassdoor.  
Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging, and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work. In addition to the requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and a culture of inclusion! Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote myriad TNC staff members, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people.”

TNC on Block Island:

The Nature Conservancy has been working on the Island since 1972, and officially launched the Block Island Program in 1991. The Nature Conservancy’s strength lies in its strong partnerships, local staff with extensive knowledge of Block Island’s ecology, and our use of proven, science-based strategies. With the help of partners, donors, and volunteers, the Island’s community-based conservation program has made significant progress in the last three decades with more than 47% of Block Island conserved for the benefit of people and wildlife. In recent years, TNC has initiated long-term monitoring of the Great Salt Pond, a large coastal salt pond, to become more knowledgeable of its ecological functions and values. This effort is part of our larger commitment to provide sound science and engagement opportunities to strengthen protection of Block Island’s unique natural resource.

What We Can Achieve Together:

The Marine Program Assistant Assistant is responsible for assisting the Block Island Marine Program with scientific activities involving multi-gear fisheries surveys, water quality monitoring, salt marsh monitoring; leading summer nature walks and other stewardship activities; overseeing volunteers and performing office duties. This seasonal position will provide vital assistance to ensure this collective body of work is done effectively and efficiently. The Marine Program Assistant role will include:
·        Performs fieldwork including estuarine and coastal scientific data collection and gear/boat maintenance.
·        Assist with projects including beach seine surveys, fisheries assessments, water quality monitoring, and salt marsh monitoring.
·        Assist with research vessel operations including launching and handling line and fieldwork equipment.
·        Compiles data, resolves disparities and maintains datasets for various projects involved in Block Island Marine Program.
·        Lead nature walks and outreach programs as assigned to educate the public about local natural history, conservation, and The Nature Conservancy’s mission on Block Island.
·        Assist in orientation, training, and guidance of volunteers and youth groups.
·        Ability to work long hours in the field, including weekends and some evenings.
·        May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.    
·        Work requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.   

 

We’re Looking for You:

The Marine Program Assistant is supervised by the Great Salt Pond Scientist and works closely with other science staff to conduct fieldwork in the Great Salt Pond on Block Island. We are looking for someone who is a team player, motivated problem-solver, and willing to learn and help with any tasks involved in the Block Island Office and Program. This is a 16-week position beginning on May 22, 2023, through September 8, 2023. It is a full-time, temporary position (35 hrs. per week and COVID permitting), with an opportunity to extend through September. Housing is available.
 

What You’ll Bring:

·        High school diploma or GED and 6-months of related experience.
·        Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
·        Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).
 
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
·        Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
·        Ability to work in a team environment and maintain a positive attitude despite physical adversity while working for long periods of time in the field, between projects, and other duties as assigned.
·        Experience conducting fieldwork and operating/assisting with a research vessel (e.g., small power-driven boat, kayak) and various types of scientific gear and equipment in a safe manner.
 

What We Bring:

Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in protecting the lands and waters that all life depends on. Through grassroots action, TNC has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff, we impact conservation throughout the world!
 
We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellbeing, and flexibility needs of the people we employ!