The Marine Program Assistant is responsible for assisting the Block Island Marine Program with scientific activities involving fisheries surveys, water quality monitoring, salt marsh monitoring; assisting with summer nature programs and other stewardship activities; overseeing volunteers and performing office duties. This seasonal position will provide vital assistance to ensure this collective body of work is done effectively and efficiently. The Marine Program Assistant role will include:
- Performs fieldwork including estuary and coastal scientific data collection.
- Compiles data, resolves disparities and maintains datasets for various projects to generate plans and write reports.
- Assist with research vessel operations including launching, handling line, and fieldwork equipment.
- Assist with nature walks and outreach programs to educate the public about local natural history, conservation, and The Nature Conservancy’s mission on Block Island.
- Assist in guidance of volunteers and youth groups.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Work requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
We’re Looking for You:
The Marine Program Assistant is supervised by the Great Salt Pond Scientist and works closely with other TNC staff to conduct fieldwork in the Great Salt Pond on Block Island. We are looking for someone who is a team player, motivated problem-solver, and willing to learn and help with any tasks involved in the Block Island Office and Program. This is a 24-week position beginning on May 18, 2026, through October 30, 2026. It is a full-time, temporary position (35 hours per week). Position salary is $20 per hour. Housing is available.
What You’ll Bring:
- High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience.
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
- Ability to obtain related licenses or certifications as required such as First Aid, CPR, and driver’s license.
Desired Qualifications
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
- Ability to work in a team environment.
- Ability to obtain a driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
- Boating experience.
- Experience with scientific research and data entry.
- Experience working independently and meeting deadlines.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to complete tasks with assigned timeframes, possibly in the absence of supervision.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Proven ability to deal with the public in a friendly and professional manner.
Salary Information:
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $20.00 per hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate’s location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.
