Stream Barrier Assessment Crew Member
The Nature Conservancy
What We Can Achieve Together:
Across Connecticut, substandard and dysfunctional crossings like culverts and bridges disrupt natural drainage patterns, impede the passage of fish and other organisms, and cause flooding and erosion. To address these concerns, TNC-CT is closing the knowledge gaps regarding the location and aquatic connectivity of crossings across coastal Connecticut. The Stream Barrier Assessment Crew Member (SBACM) is an integral part of this project as they will identify and assess crossings for their location, condition, and ability to pass aquatic species. This is a full-time (35 hours/week) seasonal position lasting approximately 15 weeks beginning around May 19, 2026 and ending August 28, 2026, with some flexibility on start dates.
The Connecticut Business Unit is currently operating on a hybrid model. The Stream Barrier Assessment Crew Member will be expected to work approximately 4 days in the field and one day in the New Haven office (or occasionally from home), per week.
We’re Looking for You:
The Stream Barrier Assessment Crew Member will work alongside another SBACM in a minimum crew of two and will report to the Freshwater Restoration Project Manager. The SBACM will be required to pass a certification course in North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity (NAACC) survey protocols in order to apply learned skills to assess road crossings for fish passage in urban, suburban, and rural locations in Southeastern Connecticut (primarily East Lyme, Waterford, New London, Groton, Stonington, Norwich, Ledyard, Preston, and North Stonington). Tasks include conducting surveys at and around culverts, coordinating survey sites and field work logistics, entering data and ensuring quality control, managing site photos, and operating survey equipment, tablets, and GPS field equipment to measure physical metrics at survey sites. The work will be performed in a variety of field conditions, and at times, in variable weather, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This position will require extensive travel time, and access to a personal vehicle; transportation to field sites may be reimbursed up to 40 miles/day. Must hold a valid US driver’s license with clean driving record.
Responsibilities & Scope:
Works in a crew of two or more.
Will work in variable weather conditions, and at times on difficult and hazardous terrain with occasionally physically demanding circumstances.
Works under infrequent supervision. Makes day-to-day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
Completes certification in three North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity (NAACC) survey protocols: non-tidal, tidal, and culvert condition.
Plans and implements surveys at road crossings following a rigorous data collection protocol.
Collects all necessary field data using tablets or paper forms; completes data entry and photo management.
Maps progress and navigates around Connecticut watersheds.
Performs on-site quality control as well as checks of data entry and management.
Properly maintains and decontaminates field equipment, such as tools and waders.
Acts as a positive ambassador for The Nature Conservancy working with towns, rural communities, large private landowners, natural resource agencies, and conservation organizations.
What You’ll Bring:
High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
Desired Qualifications
Experience entering data and managing data storage and web up/down-loads.
Demonstrated attention to detail and thoroughness.
Experience working independently and as part of a team.
Excellent communication skills (in-person, phone, email).
Keen desire to expand skills and experience in the environmental field.
Field experience collecting and managing field data; using technology (i.e. tablets) to record data.
Salary Information:
The pay for this position is an hourly rate of $20.
Who We Are:
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
What We Bring:
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
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. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
Employees must submit their application by logging into Workday and applying via the Jobs Hub.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
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TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.