What We Can Achieve Together:
The Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program (APIPP) is an award-winning invasive species program that leads the Conservancy’s invasive species work in the Adirondack Park in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). APIPP serves as the host of the Adirondack Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM), one of eight such partnerships in NY. The Adirondack PRISM’s mission is to work in partnership to minimize the impact of invasive species on the Adirondack region’s communities, lands, and waters. Program goals are to prevent new invasive species introductions to the region, to detect and rapidly respond to new infestations, and to mitigate harmful impacts of established infestations. APIPP advances a comprehensive, integrated approach that incorporates awareness building, prevention, early detection, rapid response, monitoring, restoration, and innovation strategies. Visit www.adkinvasives.com to learn more.
The Adirondack Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Seasonal Assistant will help monitor and manage aquatic invasive species in the Adirondack Park and reduce the spread of AIS throughout waterbodies in the Park. The AIS Seasonal Assistant conducts invasive species surveys, collects and analyzes data, provides education about invasive species, updates databases, and helps manages invasive species across the Adirondack region of upstate New York.
We’re Looking for You:
The Adirondack AIS Seasonal Assistant conducts invasive species field work throughout the Adirondack Park. Daily activities will include, but are not limited to, the following: early detection surveys, data collection with mobile monitoring tools, mechanical invasive plant management, public education/outreach, data analysis, and report writing. Some specific projects will include monitoring invasive species on Lake Champlain as part of a project to assess management effectiveness, removing water chestnut from various waterbodies, confirming identification of species reported by volunteers, and collecting water samples for eDNA and water quality processing. The Adirondack AIS Seasonal Assistant will work under the direction of APIPP’s Aquatic Invasive Species Manager and may also work closely with other APIPP program staff, including the program manager and terrestrial invasive species stewards, on projects that advance APIPP’s contract with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
Responsibilities & Scope:
Performs on water early detection surveys for aquatic invasive species.
Collects invasive species distribution and management data using mobile monitoring tools and GPS.
Deploys mechanical management techniques to control invasive species.
Educates the public about invasive species identification and spread prevention measures. May be required to attend one or more public events on a weekend to represent APIPP and provide invasive species education.
Collects water samples for laboratory analysis.
Works alone long hours in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on various waterbodies, and under physically demanding circumstances and assesses risks associated with working conditions.
Resolves routine issues independently and may work under infrequent supervision.
Requires moderate physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
What You’ll Bring:
High school diploma or GED and at least two years of education or experience in AIS monitoring or a science-related field.
Ability to identify aquatic invasive plant and animal species.
Knowledge of field data collection techniques.
Experience working in a team environment.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Must be able to swim and paddle a boat.
Desired Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, environmental monitoring, ecology, or a related field and experience working in aquatic invasive species prevention or management.
Knowledge of aquatic invasive plant/animal and native look alike species.
Experience with aquatic invasive species management tools and techniques.
Demonstrated experience collecting scientific data with mobile monitoring tools, GPS, etc.
Experience safely operating small watercraft.
Ability to take quality photos while in the field.
Experience using software applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Experience with Geographic Information Systems like ArcGIS Online, Field Maps, or Survey123 and writing scientific reports.
Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
Additional Information :
This is a sixteen-week, full-time (35 hours a week), seasonal position for the summer of 2026. The start date is on or about June 8, 2026.
Generally, Mondays through Fridays, with the flexibility to work an alternate schedule of four long days each week.
Cover letter and resume required for application to be considered.
Application Deadline: four weeks after posting
The position is based out of the Conservancy’s Keene Valley, NY office. Housing is not provided.
Use of a personal vehicle may be necessary, and mileage will be reimbursed at the federal milage rate.
This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."
No phone calls or emails please.
This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.
Salary Information:
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is $21.30 hourlyrate. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.
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 include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One 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. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
What We Bring:
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into 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 and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.
