Block Island Marine Program Assistant

The Nature Conservancy • Block Island, RI

24d • $20 - $20

About The Position

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.
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.

Requirements

• 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.
• This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program . Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."
• Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.
• We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED