Forest Health Youth Crew Leader

Job Description

The Rhode Island Natural History Survey (RINHS) seeks to hire a seasonal youth crew leader to provide support to the Forest Health Works Project (FHWP).  This project will survey for and control invasive plants affecting ecological values, including forest health, in RI.  60% of this position will be to lead the development and implementation of a non-residential high school youth corps model. In coordination with RINHS leadership and an Assistant Crew Leader, the Crew Leader will supervise students in invasive control and environmental restoration projects.

In addition, this position will provide support for 1) rapid surveys of large forest areas in Rhode Island for invasive plants, 2) development of natural resource reports and recommendations for inventoried areas based on principles of ecology and natural resource management, and 3) eradication and restoration regimens using contracted labor.  The Crew Leader will participate in other RINHS programs and tasks from time to time.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated youth group leadership experience in an outdoor setting;
• A degree in natural sciences/environmental education;
• Familiarity with the plant species and forest communities of southern 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 skills, and an ability to work to deadlines;
• Experience supervising field assistants, student interns, contractors or equivalent a plus;
• Familiarity with plant restoration techniques (planting, seed collection, etc.) is a plus;
• A valid driver’s license with a clean-driving record;
• First aid certifications a plus;

This is a fieldwork position. The Crew Leader is required to undertake substantial physical exertion and/or physical strain, sometimes in remote locations, difficult terrain, and inclement weather. Work environment involves exposure to job hazards where there is a possibility of injury and/or arthropod-borne disease.

The Crew Leader will be based in the RINHS offices in Kingston, RI, but will travel extensively throughout the state in the course of work.   Pay is $14-18hr depending on experience. This is a full-time temporary position (35 hrs/ week) during summer 2010. It is not eligible for fringe benefits.

This position is funded by a grant under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 through the U.S. Forest Service. This position reports to the Forest Ecosystem 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 8^th, 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 programadmin@rinhs.org