Research & Restoration Program Assistant (AmeriCorps)

Volunteer & Program Support Assistant

(One Year AmeriCorps Position, September 14, 2026 – August 31, 2027)
Milwaukee Riverkeeper
Job Description

Background

Working for Milwaukee Riverkeeper...

At Milwaukee Riverkeeper® we’re looking for more than just a person to fill a desk. We’re seeking team members that share our passion for healthy rivers and strong communities. If you want to become a part of our team, you will be empowered to work the way you work best. Your voice is important, you’ll help shape the role you’re in and the future of our organization. From the top down and the bottom up, we’re more than just a workplace, we work together, and play to win!

Position Description

The Research & Restoration Program Assistant will provide hands-on support for all projects related to Milwaukee Riverkeeper’s community science monitoring programs, restoration efforts, and our Adopt a River and Spring Cleanup programs. This AmeriCorps service member will gain practical experience in program coordination, fieldwork, data collection and management, program development, and volunteer support. The role is ideal for someone seeking to build a strong foundation in environmental nonprofit work while making a tangible difference for local waterways.

Responsibilities

• Provide program support for Milwaukee Riverkeeper’s research and restoration programs, including prepping, training, and equipment distribution for all programs.
• Aid program staff in fieldwork activities such as water quality monitoring, robotic beach cleaning deployments, river cleanups, site assessments, and tree planting events, as assigned.
• Work with the program coordinators to manage the collection and input of data gathered by volunteers.
• Conduct site visits and field checks to assess volunteer safety and document litter levels at work sites, as assigned.
• Represent Milwaukee Riverkeeper at outreach events and public programs, as needed.
• Complete required monthly AmeriCorps administrative and service-related tasks.

Qualifications

The successful candidate may have the following qualifications:

• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal skills
• Experience working with volunteers
• Knowledge of basic software, including Google & Microsoft products
• Ability to resolve routine problems independently
• Ability to prioritize work according to the organization’s needs
• Willingness to work occasional weekends and evenings
• Interest in learning about or knowledge of environmental issues
• Valid driver’s license preferred
• Must be able to attend mandatory AmeriCorps orientation September 14-18, 2026.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Must be willing to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Other

This list of essential responsibilities and requirements is not intended to be exhaustive. The Milwaukee Riverkeeper team needs to be flexible and may be asked to take on additional duties based on the organization’s needs and the team member’s skills and abilities. Milwaukee Riverkeeper reserves the right to revise this job description, as needed.

AmeriCorps Details:

This is a full-time year-long AmeriCorps position, with the option for a part-time position if preferred. Full-time members must commit to completing 1700 hours of service, averaging 34 hours per week from Sept 14, 2026 - Aug 31, 2027.

Full-time AmeriCorps Members receive a monthly living allowance (approx. $857 gross pay every two weeks) and an educational award ($7,395) after successful completion of service, and are eligible for health insurance benefits. Hours, benefits, and stipends vary for part-time service.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Our rivers flow through, and unite, a diverse myriad of communities. Milwaukee Riverkeeper is committed to working towards equity and inclusion in all we do to protect, restore, connect with, and advocate for our waterways. Diversity, equity, and inclusion strengthen our organization's ability to advance environmental justice, and we believe that all people should see themselves reflected in our work. Milwaukee Riverkeeper is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, marital status, age, or veteran status, and hires in accordance with state and federal law.

To Apply

Submit resume and a cover letter, including a short description of why you are interested in this position and why you think you’d be a great fit for Milwaukee Riverkeeper to jobs@milwaukeeriverkeeper.org Attention: Hiring Committee.

We will be reviewing candidates on a rolling basis until the position is filled or until August 6, 2026. For more information about Milwaukee Riverkeeper, visit www.milwaukeeriverkeeper.org.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary

Pay: $22,282.00 per year

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Milwaukee, WI 53204