New York Corps- System-Wide Monitoring Program
: Job Details :

Position SummaryThe Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (HRNERR) implements the System-Wide Monitoring Program (SWMP), which includes environmental monitoring of Hudson River Estuary habitats including water quality, nutrients, weather, and ecology. Community Needs that the Program Serves: The Program provides the community with real-time data pertaining to water quality, nutrients, meteorological conditions, and vegetation in the Hudson River Estuary. Key Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe following duties and responsibilities will depend upon the skills of the SCA member and availability of Reserve staff. Duties and responsibilities will be primarily associated with the goals of the SWMP. Assist in the monthly collection of water samples from multiple sites throughout the Hudson River Estuary. Includes the use of hand-held meters, recording of data on field sheets, and practice of standard protocols (15%) Assist in the in-house processing and analyses of water samples for multiple parameters. May include assistance in the preparation of chemical reagents and standards. (15%) Assist in the monthly maintenance of weather stations along the Hudson River. Includes maintenance and general troubleshooting of sensors and instrumentation, data retrieval, and use of hand-held meters. (10%) Support the calibration, deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of water quality monitoring instrumentation. Includes monthly swapping and deployment of instruments at multiple sites throughout the Hudson River Estuary. (15%) Assist in monthly sampling preparation, including proper labeling of sample bottles and cuvettes, cleaning, and storage of sampling equipment, weighing of filters, and other ancillary tasks. (10%) Assist in digitizing field data sheets and entering data into Microsoft Access and Excel databases. (5%) Assist, as needed, in the maintenance, organization, and upkeep of the working laboratory space. (10%) Provide additional assistance, as needed, to other programs within the Research Reserve including Habitat Restoration and Education teams (e.g., public canoe trip programs and the Institute Discovering Environmental Scientists (TIDES)) (5%) Participate in all SCA Corps-wide trainings and service projects. Completion of AmeriCorps reporting requirements including bi-weekly timesheets, monthly reports, pre/post tests for any education provided, evaluations at the beginning, mid-point, and end of term. (15%)Marginal DutiesGoal 1: Assist the Research sector in conducting long-term monitoring of estuarine habitats throughout the Hudson River. Goal 2: Work as part of a team to contribute Research program findings in The Institute Discovering Environmental Scientists (TIDES) program, a summer field research and laboratory experience where High School and College students conduct field research projects associated with the Hudson River. Goal 3: Enhance Reserve operational capacity and facilities to support program goals. Required QualificationsValid driver's license for 3+ years with a clean driving record. BA/BS or equivalent with coursework in environmental science, biology, chemistry or engineering, or a related field. Skills/Knowledge/Training Necessary to be a successful AmeriCorps Member in this position: Skills: - Familiarity of water quality sampling and analytical procedures - Ability to carefully follow rigorous sampling procedures - Ability to follow lab and field safety protocol, including chemical hygiene and safety - Willingness to operate a truck and trailer and off-road vehicles such as a UTV (after on-the-job training) Knowledge: - Familiarity with and interest in the Hudson River - Knowledge of biological, chemical, and physical water quality indicators - Understanding of estuarine habitats and ecology Training: - Relevant training opportunities that arise within the Hudson Valley and HRNERR - Member will be trained to drive a truck with a trailer and an off-road UTV - Member will be required to take mandatory NYSDEC trainingsPreferred QualificationsAgeAdults 18 or olderCompensationAmount of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award being offered for successful completion of the member's term of service: $7,395 Amount of Living Allowance member will receive: $400/week, and $1,000/month housing allowance for positions outside of NYC Healthcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for free health insurance Childcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps Student loan forbearance and interest payments, (if the member qualifies): Eligible for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans. Describe professional, personal, or service-related member development activities and training to be provided for member: AmeriCorps and SCA Orientation SCA Risk Management Sexual Harassment/Drug Abuse in the Workplace SCA Driver's Safety Training Mental Health First Aid Training Wilderness First Aid & CPR Environmental Education Curriculum Environmental Leadership Institute New York State Outdoor Educator Association Conferences/Events Hudson River Ecology Leave No Trace Trainer Course Professional Development & Job Readiness Living AccommodationsMember will be responsible for finding their own housing Additional BenefitsFirst Aid/CPR, Wilderness First Aid Training