Field Science Assistant
Hudson River Park
Organization Description:
The Trust is a public benefit corporation and a 501(c)(3) charitable organization created by act of the New York State Legislature. The mission of the Trust is to design, construct, maintain and operate a heavily used four-mile-long waterfront park and Sanctuary on Manhattan’s west side. The Park is also financially self-supporting, generating its operating budget from commercial tenancies and permittees located within the Park’s boundaries as well as from grants, sponsorships, donations and other sources.
The Seasonal Field Science Assistants will focus on estuary research, habitat enhancement, animal husbandry and stewardship. Hudson River Park implements research and monitoring efforts that demand strong organizational skills, robust science interest, teamwork and enthusiasm for field work. Field Science Assistants will support field sampling, scientific instrument maintenance and community science programs. They will also support the maintenance and public open hours for the Wetlab, a 3,500-gallon flow-through aquarium system.
Position Description:
Field Science Assistants will work to further the Park’s mission of protecting its 400-acre Estuarine Sanctuary and improving awareness and stewardship of the Hudson River through science and education. Field Science Assistants will gain an understanding of local estuarine research, wildlife and habitat enhancement projects. This position is an excellent opportunity for those interested in environmental science and learning applied biology skills. Seasonal Field Science Assistants will be part of the Hudson River Park Trust’s River Project team of scientists and educators and will report to the Manager of Research & Aquaria.
Successful candidates will have prior field research experience and/or prior knowledge of environmental/marine science. We seek team players who want to gain experience in the environmental field focused on a wide range of estuarine research topics. This position is primarily field work and implementing research projects, with some program implementation and limited administrative tasks. Additionally, Seasonal Environmental Field Science Assistants will work a Sunday to Thursday schedule with some evenings.
Reports to:
Manager of Research & Aquaria
Job Requirements & Responsibilities:
Specific Tasks & Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
– Implement the Park’s estuarine research and science projects on such topics as oysters, fish ecology, environmental DNA, water quality, sewage pathogens, habitat enhancement and Park sustainability
– Maintain the Park’s scientific instruments, water quality sensors, fish traps, flow through tank system, oyster cages, and ensure that research-related resources are in good working order
– Assist with analysis, reporting and dissemination of data including potential support with reports, posters and conferences
– Maintain fish tanks and learn to handle live fish and other marine wildlife
– Facilitate the Park’s community science and monitoring programs at locations throughout the Park such as the Pier 40 Wetlab and the Pier 26 Tide Deck
– Support public education programs at indoor and outdoor locations throughout the Park, including catch & release fishing workshops, guided tours, and open hours at the Wetlab aquarium and new Pier 57 classroom.
Candidate Qualifications:
Education and Experience Requirements:
– Completion of at least two years towards a Bachelor’s or an Associate’s Degree or equivalent relevant experience
– Coursework focused on marine, environmental, or biological sciences is preferred
– Strong interest in conducting field research in an urban waterway
– Aligned with the Park’s commitment to DEIJ, we look for applicants with a strong interest in environmental justice
– Comfort interacting with members of the public in a friendly and professional manner
– Ability to work as a part of a team, multitask and problem solve
– Strong organizational and communication skills
Physical & Other Requirements:
– Willingness to get muddy, handle live animals, work outside in all weather conditions and practice catch and release fishing
– Ability to lift around 30 pounds is preferred
– Either a valid driver’s license or ability to ride a bicycle is preferred
– Proof of Covid-19 vaccination status required
Compensation & Schedule:
– $19.00 per hour
– Standard work schedule is Sunday to Thursday including some evenings
There are two different term lengths, please specify your preferred length in your cover letter:
– 10-week seasonal position, from June 20 to August 26
– 30-week seasonal position, from May 30 to December 23
Position Type:
Seasonal
Union Status:
Non-Union
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
Salary or Compensation:
$19.00 / hour
Organization or Project Website:
HudsonRiverPark.org
Application Info:
Interested applicants are to submit a resume and cover letter with your preferred term length specified to the Human Resources Officer at resumes@hrpt.ny.gov. Indicate Job Code: Seasonal Field Science Assistant 2023 in the subject line of the email.