Field Assistant - Seasonal

Field Assistant (s) - Seasonal

This is a temporary, hourly (35 hours/week), non-exempt, non-benefited position $20-23 per hour, depending on the applicant's education and experience. This position starts on or around April 27, 2026, with a flexible end date between August and October 30th. (exact dates negotiable).

Position Summary:

The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies seeks two to four Field Assistants to support the collection and processing of chemical and biological samples from the Hudson River and tributaries, and other local aquatic ecosystems. This work contributes to a large, multi-partner initiative focused on sustaining and improving long-term ecosystem and fisheries monitoring within the Hudson River system.

Successful applicants will spend up to 80% of their time in the field, conducting sampling along the Hudson River estuary and its tributaries between Troy and Manhattan, primarily from small boats and shore-based sites. Additional fieldwork may include travel to wetlands on Cary Institute property. The remainder of the work will take place in the lab and office. The position is based at the Cary Institute in Millbrook, New York.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Assist with the collection of physical, biological, and chemical water samples
• Maintain and troubleshoot sampling equipment
• Report sampling inconsistencies or deviations from standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Collaborate effectively with the project team
• Work independently at the microscope and in a laboratory setting to identify biological specimens

Required Qualifications:

• Authorization to work in the United States
• Valid and clean driver's license
• High school diploma or equivalent
• College-level coursework in ecology, environmental science, or related fields
• Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong organizational and communication skills, with a positive attitude
• Boater safety certification recognized by the State of New York.
• First Aid and CPR certification
• Experience in trailering, operating, navigating, or maintaining small boats
• Experience with navigational tools (paper/digital navigational charts, GPS) and automated sensors
• Experience using basic hand tools
• Relevant coursework in freshwater ecology, limnology, and/or macroinvertebrates

Required Skills:

• Ability to swim
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft and/or Google Office Suite)

Working Conditions:

• Ability to lift and move objects up to 75 pounds
• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods
• Willingness to work on boats and shorelines in remote areas and adverse weather
• Ability to participate in occasional pre-scheduled overnight or weekend trips

Closing Date:

The positions are open until they are filled.

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is a leading independent environmental research organization dedicated to understanding ecosystems and addressing key environmental challenges. With a focus on freshwater, forests, disease, and cities, our scientists are global experts in ecology and tackle issues such as climate change, invasive species, and human impacts on land and water. Our research informs policy and management decisions to protect the environment and improve human wellbeing, with notable contributions to the Clean Air Act amendments, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

At Cary Institute, we prioritize sharing our science to enhance ecological literacy and foster informed decision-making. Through a variety of educational programs, we aim to engage students, decision makers, and the public while training the next generation of ecologists and resource managers. Our work spans both local and global scales, with significant impact on ecosystems such as the Hudson River, the Catskill and Adirondack forests, and the Baltimore watershed, making our research science in the service of society.

To apply:

To apply, please complete our online application at (https://www.caryinstitute.org/about/careers-cary)https://www.caryinstitute.org/about/careers-cary and attach a PDF document including a cover letter, CV, or resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references. Questions about the position may be directed to Heather Malcom at the Cary Institute.

The Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA) employer. It is the policy of the Cary Institute to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.