Aquatic Invasive Species Connecticut Field Manager
Position classification: Non-Exempt, Seasonal Part-time 30 hours/week (0.75 FTE)
Weekly hours are approximate dependent on grant funding and to be confirmed upon offer of employment
Salary: $22/hour
Start Date: 04/27/2026
End Date: 9/18/2026
Location: Middletown, CT / Field work in Glastonbury and Middletown
Health Benefit Eligible: No
Retirement Benefit Eligible: Yes
Supervisor: Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager
Position Description
The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) seeks a motivated individual to facilitate the removal and monitoring of invasive species, such as water chestnut and hydrilla in the Connecticut River watershed in Connecticut. Scheduling and coordinating water chestnut pulling events will be the primary purpose of this role, with support from 2-3 field staff. The Field Manager will schedule 2-3 staff pull days a week, depending on team schedule. They will also organize weekly volunteer pulling events, typically on Saturdays. These events last around 6-8 hours, from time of meeting to time of departure, including time for orientation and securing boats onto vehicles. This work takes place on several water bodies located in Glastonbury and Middletown. Kayaks and all other necessary supplies are provided to staff. This position requires access to a car and mileage accrued while working will be reimbursed at the IRS rate.
In addition to water chestnut removal events, the field manager will coordinate with partners across the state to support our watershed-wide water chestnut removal efforts; they will be asked to assist in the monitoring of infested locations, participate in partner volunteer events, assist with disposal of the invasive species, participate in water quality monitoring initiatives, and provide resources for our partners. Each of these programs relies on volunteer participation and, as such, the field manager should be comfortable coordinating volunteer events.
Primary Responsibilities
Plan and lead the execution of community water chestnut pull events for volunteers on a weekly basis.
Plan and lead field staff pull events and schedule 2-3 times per week.
Volunteer management includes recruitment and relationship building with individual volunteers and community groups.
Collect and submit data from every pulling or scouting event for invasive species removal and spread.
Participate in staff and stakeholder meetings as needed.
Coordinate pulling events or other relevant restoration projects with external partners and volunteers.
Transport equipment (canoes/kayaks/trailers) to various work sites and drive a Jon boat as needed.
Make event planning decisions based on weather and other safety conditions.
Ensure all safety protocol is followed by staff and volunteers.
Assist the program manager in writing final season reports.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have a passion for the environment, some knowledge of invasive plant management, have paddling experience, and enjoy managing volunteers working from boats. This person will be responsible for executing on-water volunteer hand-pulling events between May and August 2026 in conjunction with partner groups, as well as ensuring that all data is maintained and can be effectively utilized both internally and by agency and project partners.
The work will be supervised and supported from CRC’s Middletown, CT headquarters. Work is anticipated to begin in late April and conclude mid-September – this schedule may vary depending on the growth of water chestnut which is dependent on water temperature. Workdays can be subject to weather cancellations. Boats and equipment are provided.
We understand that many folks who may be impacted by biased hiring standards, such as women, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC applicants, may only apply if they meet every requirement listed in a job posting. If you are interested in this opportunity and believe you meet most of the job requirements, we encourage you to apply.
Position Requirements:
Interest in the environment and river ecology.
Experience and comfort paddling in a kayak and/or canoe.
Motor boating experience or willingness to learn.
Experience in trailering a motorboat or willingness to learn.
A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
Completion of CT’s Safe Boating or Personal Watercraft Operation Certificate or willingness to complete the course.
Ability to participate in strenuous physical activity outdoors and lift 50 pounds.
Ability to work independently as well as with a team of field staff and large groups of volunteers.
Office Location
Location: Middletown, CT / Field work in Glastonbury and Middletown
Salary and Benefits
Salary: $22/hour
Health Benefit Eligible: No
Retirement Benefit Eligible: Yes
Application Instructions
Use form below to submit a resume and brief cover letter in 1 PDF document that is titled with your first and last name, and the position you’re applying for.
Application Deadline
Deadline to apply: March 27th, 2026
Interviews will take place on a rolling basis ending by mid-April.
Overview of the Organization
The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed.
CRC has been a steward of the Connecticut River and its tributary streams since 1952. Our programs include advocacy, aquatic invasive species management, dam removal, habitat restoration, migratory fish surveys, recreation, trash cleanups, and water quality monitoring. Through collaborative partnerships in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, CRC leads and supports efforts for resilient and life-filled rivers from source to sea. We are uniquely positioned to leverage local, state, regional, and federal resources as the only science-based nonprofit working throughout the entire watershed. Our values of inclusion, collaboration, resilience, and stewardship guide our ongoing work to address the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Together through community engagement and education, we’re helping to ensure healthy rivers for all. Learn more at ctriver.org.
Connecticut River Conservancy is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and will engage in an inclusive recruiting and hiring process. It considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.