Aquatic Invasive Species Field Manager & Assistant in MA/CT

There are 4 positions available, with all details and applications here: https://www.ctriver.org/careers

• Aquatic Invsive Species Field Manager in MA
• Aquatic Invsive Species Field Assistant in MA
• Aquatic Invsive Species Field Manager in CT
• Aquatic Invsive Species Field Assistant in CT

Below is the specific job description for the Field Manager in MA, please use the web link provided to see all other details. 

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 Massachusetts. 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 Saturdays. These events last around 4 hours, from time of meeting to time of departure, including time for orientation and securing boats onto vehicles. This work takes place on several water bodies located in Northampton, Easthampton, Hatfield, Hadley, South Hadley, Holyoke, and Chicopee. 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 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 safety conditions.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a passion for the environment, some knowledge of invasive plant management, have paddling experience, and enjoy managing volunteers working from boats. This person will be responsible for executing on-water volunteer hand-pulling events between May and August 2026 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 Greenfield, MA headquarters. Work is anticipated to begin in late April and conclude mid-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.

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 in the environment and river ecology.
• Experience and comfort paddling in a kayak and/or canoe.
• Motor boating experience or willingness to learn.
• Experience in trailering a motorboat or willingness to learn.
• A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
• Completion of MA’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.
• Ability to work independently as well as with a team of field staff and large groups of volunteers.

Office Location

Greenfield, MA / Field work in Northampton and Holyoke, MA