Job Description: The Rhode Island Natural History Survey (RINHS) seeks to hire a seasonal Youth Crew Leader for the 2011 field season. 60% of this position will be to lead the development and implementation of a non-residential high school youth crew. In coordination with RINHS leadership and an Assistant Crew Leader, the Leader will supervise paid students in invasive plant control, trail-building, and other environmental restoration projects. This follows a successful RI youth corps pilot in 2010. Efforts will focus on early detection of invasive plants, particularly mile-a-minute vine (Persicaria perfoliata). Project partners include The Nature Conservancy, DEM, municipalities, and others.
In addition, this position will help coordinate the broader outreach effort on mile-a-minute vine among the diverse stakeholders including public utilities, watersheds groups, high schools, and others. The position will also participate in rapid surveys for invasive plants in Rhode Island. Finally, the crew leader will provide support to other RINHS programs and tasks from time to time Qualifications: -Demonstrated youth group leadership experience in an outdoor setting; -A degree and/or background in natural sciences/environmental education; -Familiarity with the plant species and forest communities of New England; -Relevant field experience, including familiarity with the conditions and requirements for safe, effective work in rugged outdoor conditions; -Demonstrated ability to work systematically towards goals using independent initiative as well as by working collaboratively with partners and peers; -Strong organizational skills, strong writing & speaking skills, and strong problems solving skills; -Experience supervising field assistants, student interns, contractors or equivalent a plus; -A valid driver's license with a clean-driving record; Reliable transportation is needed. -First aid certifications a plus; This is a fieldwork position. Substantial physical exertion and/or physical strain, sometimes in remote locations, difficult terrain, and inclement weather will be required. Work environment involves exposure to job hazards where there is a possibility of injury and/or arthropod-borne disease. The position will be based in the RINHS offices in Kingston, RI, but will travel extensively throughout the state in the course of work. Mileage will be compensated. One week – including overnights, will be spent on Block Island. Pay is $14-18hr based on experience. This is a full-time temporary position (35 hrs/ week) for 12 weeks during summer 2011. It is not eligible for fringe benefits. This position is funded by a grant from the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation. This position reports to the Forest Health Works Project Coordinator. RINHS is a private non-profit environmental science membership organization (see www.rinhs.org). RINHS is an equal opportunity employer, women & minorities are encouraged to apply. Review of applications will begin March 11th, and continue until the position is filled. To apply, email a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information, including email and phone number, of three persons whom RINHS may contact regarding your experience and qualifications to [email protected]
