Natural Resources Job Board

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.

Background:
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.
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, data analysis and reporting. Additionally, Seasonal Field Science Assistants will work a Tuesday to Saturday schedule with some evening hours.

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 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
▪ 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 Pier 57 Discovery Tank

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, time management 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 approximately 30 pounds is preferred
▪ A valid driver’s license and ability to ride a bicycle is preferred
▪ Proof of Covid-19 vaccination status is no longer required; however, The Trust does encourage staff to remain current on updated vaccines as recommended by NYC DOH

Compensation & Schedule:
▪ $20.00 per hour
▪ Standard work schedule is Tuesday to Saturday including some evening hours
▪ There are two different term lengths, please specify your preferred length in your cover letter
o 12-week seasonal position, from June 4 to August 24
o 30-week seasonal position, from June 4 to December 18

Application Process:
Interested applicants are to submit a resume and cover letter with your preferred term length specified to the Human Resources Office at resumes@hrpt.ny.gov. Please include how you found the job listing in the body of your email. Indicate Job Code: Seasonal Field Science Assistant 2024 in the subject line of the email.

No phone calls please.