Position: AWI Seasonal Field Technician

Status: Full-time, temporary, seasonal, non-exempt, staff

Department: Adirondack Watershed Institute

Reports to: Research Associate

Salary: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour

The Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI) is a program of Paul Smith’s College, a private undergraduate college located in the heart of the Adirondack Park in upstate New York. The mission of AWI is to protect clean water, conserve habitat and support the health and well-being of people in the Adirondacks through scientific inquiry, stewardship, and real-world experiences for students.

Position Description:

The Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute is seeking entry-level Field Technicians for the summer of 2025. Positions run from May through September or October and are scheduled for 40 hours per week with potential for overtime dependent on project needs. The position is based on Paul Smith’s College campus but involves a significant amount of time traveling to and working from field sites. This position will serve as primary support for AWI’s Science Field Team assisting with the numerous research and monitoring projects on water bodies across the Adirondacks. Fieldwork can include hiking up to 14 miles and often requires working 10+ hours/day.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Collect physical, chemical, and biological samples from lakes and streams throughout the season in all weather conditions, oftentimes in remote backcountry locations.
• Field gear maintenance, instrument calibration and pre-fieldwork prep.
• Equipment decontamination.
• Support field operations such as: general organization, cleanliness and upkeep of equipment and instruments.
• Record keeping and data entry.
• Provide sample transportation between AWI laboratory and USGS facility in Troy, NY.
• General assistance supporting the field team and other duties relating to the mission of AWI as needed.

Qualifications and Preferences:

• College course work in environmental science, chemistry, biology, geology, or other natural sciences.
• Interest in environmental science and desire to gain experience working in the field.
• Ability to spend an extended amount of time on your feet.
• Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather, including on motorized and non-motorized watercraft (i.e., canoes).
• Experience with land/water navigation and working in remote outdoor environments. Ability to lift/carry 40 lb.
• Ability to perform duties independently and proactively.
• High level of attention to detail.
• New York State Driver’s license and driving record acceptable to the College’s insurance carrier.
• Applicants must have a dependable personal vehicle.

• Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive campus community.

To Apply:

Applicants should complete the online application and submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references.

Paul Smith’s College values diversity in the College community and seeks to assure equal opportunity through its continued Affirmative Action program. EOE/AA/M/F/D/V