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Clean Water Manager
- Identify and evaluate funding opportunities and contribute to the development, writing, and submission of grant proposals to support program goals.
- Lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source water pollution in Upstate South Carolina.
- Coordinate outreach to landowners implementing clean water projects on their properties.
- Manage project timelines, track milestones, and complete required reports to ensure compliance with grant requirements.
- Assist with GIS related tasks, including maps for program work and grant requests.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, community organizations and elected officials.
- Advocate for clean water priorities through participation in task forces, working groups, and professional associations.
- Review local and state water related permits and regulations and prepare, submit, and/or present oral or written comments to advance UF’s clean water advocacy priorities.
- Collaborate with other UF policy staff on local and state projects, policies, and/or regulations with water resource implications.
- Respond to citizen inquiries related to water resources concerns throughout Upstate SC.
- Develop written content for publication in media outlets, organizational websites, and digital platforms in coordination with the Communications Team.
- Prepare and deliver presentations to local, state, and federal agencies as well as community organizations highlighting program initiatives.
- Participate in community events to build relationships and promote clean water initiatives.
- Perform other duties assigned by the Clean Water Director.
- Attend organizational events as requested.
- Experience – a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, preferably in environmental science, ecology, biology, natural resource management or related field; and at least 5 years professional experience.
- Self-Motivated and Problem Solver – Comfortable working independently on multiple projects simultaneously, ability to problem solve and a commitment to accuracy and integrity in all aspects of the job.
- Organizational Skills – Strong organizational and time management skills. Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple unique tasks with strong attention to detail.
- Technical Skills – Proficiency with standard office software (including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat). Working knowledge of ArcGIS software and ability to quickly adopt and use new software as necessary.
- People Skills – Demonstrated ability to interact with individuals from different backgrounds, ages, and socio-economic levels in a manner that positively reflects the values of Upstate Forever; builds rapport; shows respect for team members and an ability to foster and maintain an enjoyable, rewarding, and productive workplace.
- Communication & Feedback – Excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to communicate Upstate Forever’s position effectively with landowners and external partners while maintaining positive relationships; willingness to receive and apply constructive feedback.
- Travel – Capable of independent travel around Upstate Forever’s ten-county region. Weekend work is needed on rare occasions, and overnight travel is limited to conferences and professional development opportunities. Valid driver’s license required.
- Compensation and Benefits
- $58,000 starting salary – negotiable depending on
- Benefits include health and dental insurance, paid time off/paid holidays, and 401K with employer
- Flexible workplace and scheduling (in accordance with company policy – the normal expectation is that staff are available during the standard workday for meetings and responses to time-sensitive requests).
- Civic Days (up to 16 paid hours per year for civic and/or community service)
Job Features
Position Summary The Clean Water Manager supports organizational efforts to protect and enhance water resources across Upstate South Carolina through strategic initiatives and programs. This is a full...
Water Quality Monitoring Manager
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Water Quality Monitoring Program
- Provide strategic direction in collaboration with the Conservation Director to the benthic macroinvertebrate WQM program, including evaluating the relevance of protocols and proposing new ones as needed.
- Coordinate 200+ volunteers. Onboard, train, and assign new volunteers to teams. Maintain lists of monitoring volunteers and teams. Support team leaders with training and technical assistance as needed. Communicate with volunteers and provide a welcoming environment for them.
- Implement training and testing requirements for monitors and team leaders, including teaching, contracting, or finding instructors to teach required classes.
- Manage portfolio of stream sites and identify new ones as needed. Keep all monitoring permits current.
- Prepare supplies for team leaders before each monitoring season and check equipment following each monitoring season.
Program Compliance & Data Management
- Implement Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement protocols to maintain WQM program at a Tier 2 level.
- Manage benthic macroinvertebrate specimen collection and coordinate the identification of new specimens. Maintain WQM benthic macroinvertebrate taxonomic list.
- Report data to appropriate government agencies, Nature Forward partners, and the general public.
- Update Water Quality Monitoring GIS Map with data quarterly and Water Quality Monitoring website as needed.
Creek Critters Program
- Contract with technical providers to maintain and (as needed and funding is available) revise the Creek Critters? smartphone app
- Collaborate with Izaak Walton League of America to grow the userbase for the app and maintain connectivity to the Clean Water Hub • Collect quarterly metrics on app and userbase to report to funder
- Seek opportunities to integrate Creek Critters with the WQM program
Other Conservation Outreach
- Work with Environmental Education and Conservation Advocacy staff on targeted outreach campaigns, events, and projects with priority communities
- Prioritize reaching new and diverse audiences
- Seek and maintain partnerships, and identify potential funding opportunities for partnerships, projects, or programs
- Assist with grant proposals, manage grant programs, and prepare grant reports.
Qualifications/Requirements
Required Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience
- 2 years of experience managing volunteers and teaching.
- 2 years of experience using and/or developing water quality monitoring protocols and quality assurance plans.
- Experience using Salesforce database.
- Some knowledge of building and maintaining smartphone apps and experience working with program developers.
Preferred Qualifications
- Understanding of physical stream characteristics/ecology/hydrology.
- Excellent written (including electronic) and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient in social and app-based communication.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
- Proficient in project management applications
- Experience using the Canva graphic design platform and Adobe Photoshop.
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to hike moderate distances over uneven terrain carrying a load of -30 pounds.
- Must be able to balance on slippery rocks and scale down steep embankments. • Must be able to carry a load of 30 pounds up and down stairs.
- Must be able to attend weekend events (up to 2-4 times/month in spring, summer and fall).
- Ability to drive, and access to a car that can transport large bins of lesson materials and stream monitoring supplies.
Benefits
- Health care
- Life insurance
- Accidental death & dismemberment insurance
- Long-term disability insurance
- Medical & dependent care flexible spending accounts
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Approximately 15 organizational holidays annually, 2 flex holidays
- Vacation and sick leave based on length of service
Job Features
The Water Quality Monitoring (WQM) Manager is responsible for managing Nature Forward’s community-science water quality monitoring program for adults and families. Additionally, the manager will sup...
Waterkeepers Chesapeake Director
Key Responsibilities:
Advocacy & Member Support (85%)
- Working with the Waterkeeper members, develop, review and update WKC’s Strategic Plan and annual work plans.
- Craft, plan and implement advocacy campaigns for and in collaboration with the Waterkeeper members.
- Assist Waterkeeper members in articulating and harnessing their collective power in legislative and policy outreach by developing shared communications and advocacy products.
- Work with coalition members to facilitate collaboration on regional priority issues, campaigns, and legislation in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
- Support member Waterkeepers’ legal advocacy, including assisting in connecting with legal assistance and resources.
- Manage communications that support Waterkeepers Chesapeake and coalition members, and raises awareness of priority issues.
- Organize regular membership meetings and trainings on issues, technical skills development, and capacity building.
- Organize annual WKC member planning and training retreat.
- Participate in and monitor regional and national networks and coalitions such as Choose Clean Water Coalition Steering Committee, Maryland Community Coalition for the Environment, Virginia Conservation Network, etc.
- Track member support activities and report annually to the individual coalition members.
Operations & Fundraising (15%)
- Responsible for fundraising efforts, primarily writing grant proposals and reports.
- Build partnerships to leverage resources and expertise in support of WKC’s mission and work.
- Supervise and manage Program Associate, whose main responsibilities include implementing communications strategies, providing program support, and supporting coalition members.
- Prepare and track the annual budget.
- Ensure WKC’s adherence to Waterkeeper Alliance’s Quality Standards as a licensed Regional Entity
Key Qualifications:
- Proven campaign leadership abilities, including demonstrated ability to craft and implement multi-part, strategic, and creative campaigns from start to finish in a mission-driven working environment.
- Visionary mindset with a successful track record aligning multiple stakeholders with differing perspectives around a common vision and collaborating on strategies to work together to achieve it.
- Demonstrated passion for the environment and an interest in learning about water quality issues (if not already familiar with them) along with the ability to develop into an effective and persuasive spokesperson to the public on these issues.
- Capacity to understand complex environmental legal issues and the regulatory framework concerning water pollution and waterway protection (but not necessary to be a subject matter expert in these areas).
- Successful grant writing and fundraising experience.
- Demonstrated success in working as a coordinating member of a team and developing effective working relationships with staff, coalition members, and partners.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including researching, writing, public speaking, and excellent listening skills.
- High level of professionalism, self-motivation, and team orientation.
- Strong time-management and organizational skills with an attention to detail, high standards, and ability to multitask with a positive attitude, flexibility, and attention to detail.
- Three years of relevant nonprofit management experience.
- Experience in a coalition or network setting and familiarity with the Waterkeeper movement preferred.
- Experience with the legislative process preferred.
Commitment to Inclusion and Racial Justice
WKC strives to integrate values of equity, fairness, inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability into our work, which includes reflecting our commitment to racial justice in our programmatic work and our organizational structure and values. We are seeking candidates who have a commitment to engage in this ongoing process and work with us to create an inclusive work environment and world. Waterkeepers Chesapeake is an equal opportunity employer.How to apply & job details
We are a hybrid workplace, with most staff working remotely. Your location must be convenient to routine travel to Silver Spring, Annapolis and occasional travel to other locations within the watershed. Salary range is $75,000 - $90,000 depending on experience. WKC values employee growth and advancement and makes opportunities for these even with our small size. The position includes a benefits package designed for your well-being and a healthy work-life balance including: health insurance, retirement benefit, generous vacation and time off, and flexible work arrangements. The position is available immediately. Please submit a resume and cover letter indicating your specific interest in this position. In addition, you can submit additional materials such as writing samples. Send to info(at)waterkeeperschesapeake.org with subject line: YOUR LAST NAME: WKC Director application. Resumes without a cover letter will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Interested individuals are strongly encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.Job Features
Waterkeepers Chesapeake seeks an enthusiastic convener and self-starter to lead Waterkeepers Chesapeake into its next chapter and serve as its new Director. The Director convenes the member Waterkeepe...
Executive Director
Executive Director of Mianus River Gorge
To protect irreplaceable natural habitats for our community, wildlife, and future generations.About Mianus River Gorge
Founded in 1953, The Mianus River Gorge, Inc. (MRG) is an independent 501(c)(3). It was the first land project of The Nature Conservancy and, in 1963, was designated the first National Natural Landmark by the US Department of the Interior. Since its inception, MRG has been at the forefront of conservation, education, and community engagement. Over the past seven decades, the organization has acquired 98 parcels of land totaling 963 acres, secured 24 conservation easements to protect an additional 252 acres, and preserved over 100 acres of rare, old-growth hemlock forest. The 22-mile Mianus River flows through the Preserve – a unique treasure in the New York metropolitan region. MRG protects and manages over 1,200 acres in the Mianus River Watershed in parts of Bedford, North Castle and Pound Ridge, New York, and Stamford and Greenwich, Connecticut. The Preserve is open seasonally with seven miles of scenic, challenging, and well-tended hiking trails and outdoor exhibits. MRG also owns 41 acres in the Twin Lakes and Taylor Preserves. The Mianus Watershed helps protect and filter clean, abundant drinking water for over 130,000 residents in Stamford and Greenwich, Connecticut, as well as in Rye, Rye Brook, and Port Chester, New York. The Mianus River is rated Class AA-Special – the highest rating for a drinking water supply. MRG’s work with academic institutions and partner organizations on initiatives to protect the Mianus River Watershed – from its headwaters in northern Greenwich, Connecticut to its endpoint at the Long Island Sound – informs and impacts land management for the entire region. MRG leads the way in ambitious ecological research and offers innovative hands-on, environmental education programs for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. MRG trains the next generation of scientists who learn to better understand the ecosystems of the Gorge and the surrounding region and apply what they have learned to land stewardship and management. MRG is governed by a 17-member Board of Trustees. With an annual operating budget of approximately $1 million, the organization is staffed by a team of five full-time and three part-time employees. In addition to its land holdings and other assets, MRG has $5.5 million in assets under management through its endowment.PROFILE
The essence of MRG and what makes it different from other land trusts is the sophistication of its science-based research programs, rare old-growth hemlock forest, and conservation expertise. At its core, the role of Executive Director is about protecting a very special place with irreplaceable resources through conservation, research, education, and community involvement – reflected in the mission statement that was developed by the Board. The Executive Director will be a steward of this mandate while also challenging the organization to adapt to a rapidly changing world. The Executive Director will provide the vision, strategic planning, and management necessary to maintain the organization’s strengths and build its legacy. The Executive Director will provide fresh thinking, present new ideas, and set priorities that present a clear view of the mission and direction of the Preserve going forward. Specifically, and most importantly, the Executive Director will embrace natural habitat and biodiversity protection as the institution’s first priority, while striking a balance between core ideas around public use versus protection – protecting land for the land itself versus protecting land for the people. The Executive Director will enhance MRG’s research, education, programs, fundraising, and community engagement efforts. As a certified Land Trust (and accredited by the Land Trust Alliance), the Executive Director will direct and prioritize continued geographic expansion and acquisition. The Executive Director will serve as a resource for programmatic and organizational leadership internally and in the community. This person will both acknowledge and support the expertise of MRG’s Directors of Research & Education and Stewardship who share their knowledge at local workshops and national conferences, in published research papers, and are active participants in regional conservation partnership organizations. Additionally, the Executive Director will strengthen local outreach, involvement, engagement, and awareness and promote visitation to the Preserve without jeopardizing MRG’s commitment to preservation. The Executive Director will partner with like organizations and serve as a visible and engaged member of the community.PRIORITIES
The Executive Director will ensure that MRG remains clear and ambitious in its strategic intent, and will have the following priorities and key responsibilities:• Lead in the development of MRG’s strategic plan; help develop actionable multiyear plans and specific goals and milestones to be achieved in order to show progress and success; within its current framework, seize opportunities to extend MRG’s leadership and influence in the field. • Quickly establish relationships with existing key public and private donors in order to facilitate the ongoing flow of support and contributions; cultivate, solicit, and steward new sources of funding among individuals and foundations; champion and enhance fundraising strategies and outreach in order to develop a broader base of support for MRG and its mission. • Provide cohesive managerial leadership so that MRG’s day-to-day operations and programs are professionally and efficiently administered; articulate and reinforce research priorities; allow staff’s skills and abilities to come forward; nurture and reward talent; delegate effectively and sustain open channels of communication; embrace Land Trust Alliance standards and best practices which stand as yardsticks to measure MRG’s systems and process. • Foster a cohesive and collegial working relationship with the Board, finding ways to use effectively their individual expertise to benefit MRG; keep the Board engaged; identify and tap into underutilized talents and connections of various Board members as appropriate; be strategic in the recruitment and development of new Board members.
IDEAL CHARACTERISTICS
The Executive Director should be able to articulate and execute on a clear vision for MRG going forward, and be or have the following:• A deep passion and connection with nature; leadership skills and the ability to manage growth and foster big ideas; a background in the environmental sciences is strongly preferred; if not already steeped in science, broadly respectful of MRG’s unique grounding in science- and research-based strategies and practices, along with a willingness to learn how to articulate MRG’s priorities to convey broadly what is happening within the Gorge from preservation, conservation, and sustainability perspectives. • Expertise in land acquisition and management is preferred; respected by funders, partners, and constituents, with the ability to work comfortably with other land trusts and preservation-related partners; someone that people in both the lay and professional communities go to for answers. • Proven management, problem-solving, and implementation skills as well as strategic capability, with commensurate fiscal and business acumen as an executive with an environmental or other relevant nonprofit organization or government agency; experience in an organization of similar size and scope preferred. • Proven ability to lead a highly dedicated staff; able to envision and translate into operation new initiatives and deeply understand how operational and programmatic decisions are being experienced by staff. • Proven experience as a dynamic fundraiser with the ability to cultivate and steward major donors and to frame the vision and concepts to secure financial support from individual donors, foundation, preservation-minded partners, and government sources, particularly in the face of a changing political and financial landscape and increased competition. • The ability to embrace and engage new audiences through social media, marketing, and digital platforms and technology, with experience working with media, public relations, and community outreach.
The Executive Director should also have or be:
• An effective relationship builder at all levels: local government, major donors and landowners, staff, local community, and within the community of land trusts and environmental conservation organizations; highly visible, energetic, and engaging, with social and emotional intelligence, gravitas, confidence, and charisma. • Comfortable in the field; willing to multitask, roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty and/or wet. • Collaborative and empathetic; a consensus builder who will navigate and balance the interests and agendas of multiple constituencies and embrace the suggestions and promising ideas of others, recognize and respect a group of deeply committed employees, constituents, and partners. • A proactive, analytical, and creative problem solver who can anticipate, initiate, and implement rather than just respond to challenges as they arise. • A good and active listener and communicator who can take the lead but also knows when to delegate responsibilities as appropriate; able to maintain on all fronts a sense of continuity and common purpose. • A good sense of humor and the ability to maintain balance and perspective.
Total compensation which includes salary, bonus, benefits, and housing is $175,000-$200,000. Please send applications, including letters of interest and CVs, and nominations to Mark Tarnacki and G. Angela Henry at MRG@PhillipsOppenheim.com.Job Features
The Executive Director will provide the vision, strategic planning, and management necessary to maintain the organization’s strengths and build its legacy. The Executive Director will provide fresh ...
Hatchery Operations Intern (Salida)
About Blue Elements Watershed Stewards:
Blue Elements Watershed Stewards are committed to increasing community resilience in the face of changing water conditions by supporting sustainable access to one of Colorado’s most valuable natural resources. AmeriCorps members will support organizations serving the water education and monitoring sectors in the Arkansas River Valley and beyond. Members may provide water education to youth and adults, complete watershed management projects, and support water quality monitoring projects.About the Mount Shavano State Fish Hatchery:
Since 1881, Colorado Parks & Wildlife fish hatcheries have been dedicated to improving the fish populations of our beautiful state. Today, CPW operates 19 hatcheries that breed, hatch, rear, and stock over 90 million fish per year. Many of the fish produced are to enhance angling opportunities, while others serve a critical role in native species recovery efforts. Colorado fish hatcheries support our angling pastime, which annually contributes 2.4 billion dollars to our state's economy. Purchased in 1956, the Mt. Shavano Hatchery is one of the largest trout units in the state. Mt. Shavano produces approximately 550,000 whirling disease-negative, catchable (10-inch) trout and about 2 million sub-catchable fish (2−5 inches) per year. Species such as rainbow, Snake River cutthroat, cutthroat-rainbow crosses, and kokanee salmon are raised at the unit.About the Position:
The Hatchery Operations Internship at the Mt. Shavano State Fish Hatchery offers a hands-on opportunity to gain real-world experience in fish hatchery operations and aquatic resource management. This position provides valuable training in fish care, facility maintenance, biological data collection, and public education. Interns will actively participate in feeding and rearing fish, monitoring water quality, maintaining biosecurity protocols, and assisting with fish stocking efforts that enhance both recreational angling and native species recovery. Additionally, the intern will engage with visitors, including youth, to promote awareness of Colorado’s fisheries and conservation efforts. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about fisheries science, environmental stewardship, and hands-on conservation work.Primary Position Duties & Responsibilities:
- Feeding Fish
- Cleaning Rearing Containers
- Biological Data Collection
- Egg Care and Treatment
- Light Construction
- Plumbing
- Grounds and Building Maintenance
- Waterflow and Chemistry Management
- Support transport and release of fish for recreational opportunities.
- Interacting with and educating the general public visiting the fish hatchery, which may include youth.
- Support maintaining biosecurity
Trainings Provided:
- First Aid/CPR
- Leave No Trace
- River Watch Water Quality Monitoring
- Experiential Education
- Volunteer & Stewardship Project Coordination
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Pursuing or Completed a Degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Marine Biology, or a related natural resources field
- Basic understanding of fish biology, aquatic ecosystems, and the principles of fish care and breeding
- Comfortable engaging adults and youth giving tours of the fish hatchery
- Strong professional communication skills
- Must be willing and able to carry at least 50 pounds.
- Must be willing and able to serve occasionally in extreme weather conditions.
- Must be willing and able to serve occasional weekends.
- Applicants must hold a valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record.
- Basic computer skills
AmeriCorps Required Qualifications:
- At least 18 years old at start of service
- Must be a high school graduate, GED recipient, or working toward attaining a high school diploma or GED during the term of service.
- Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States
- Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check (state, FBI, and National Sex Offender Public Website checks) per 45 CFR 2540.202
Physical Demands and Service Environment:
This position is based in Salida, Colorado. The position will include frequent days of service outdoors and in extreme weather conditions. Service may involve frequently working with children and community members.Watershed Stewards AmeriCorps Program Benefits:
- Living Allowance- AmeriCorps member(s) will receive a total stipend of up to $14,400.00 ($10,800 for 900 hr term + $3,600 for 300 hr term) paid out bi-monthly at $960.00 per pay period over the course of the term. Taxes are deducted and the living allowance is distributed by direct deposit to the member.
- Housing Stipend- AmeriCorps member(s) will receive a total stipend of $4,500 paid out bi-monthly at $300.00 per pay period over the course of the term. Taxes are deducted and the housing stipend is distributed by direct deposit to the member.
- Education Award / Tuition Assistance- AmeriCorps member(s) can receive an Education Award upon successful completion of service in the amount of $5,262.58 ($3,697.50 for 900 hr term + $1,565.09 for 300 hr term.) This can be used to pay back student loans or further your education.
- All members receive professional development and training. Mileage reimbursement is paid for travel to required trainings.
- All members may be eligible for the Federal Assistance Program (SNAP, Medicaid, etc.)
- All members may qualify for student loan forbearance while in service.
- Alumni benefits may include priority hiring with organizations that are part of Employers of National Service and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to eliminate educational debt.
To Apply:
Submit cover letter and resume to emily@blueelements.org by January 31, 2026. Please include “Mount Shavano State Fish Hatchery” in the subject line. In your cover letter, explain your relevant experience and your commitment to the mission of the Watershed Stewards program.Job Features
The Hatchery Operations Internship at the Mt. Shavano State Fish Hatchery offers a hands-on opportunity to gain real-world experience in fish hatchery operations and aquatic resource management. This ...
Hatchery Operations Intern
About Blue Elements Watershed Stewards:
Blue Elements Watershed Stewards are committed to increasing community resilience in the face of changing water conditions by supporting sustainable access to one of Colorado’s most valuable natural resources. AmeriCorps members will support organizations serving the water education and monitoring sectors in the Arkansas River Valley and beyond. Members may provide water education to youth and adults, complete watershed management projects, and support water quality monitoring projects.About the Leadville National Fish Hatchery:
Leadville National Fish Hatchery was created by Executive Order of President Benjamin Harrison for the purpose of increasing the supply of fish for inland waters. The hatchery grounds occupy 3,072 acres near the city of Leadville, Colorado, at an elevation of 10,000 feet. The hatchery’s subalpine forest surroundings, with its cold, clean water supply provide the ideal location for trout production. Originally, the hatchery produced trout that were distributed over the entire Rocky Mountain region. Waters which originally held only native cutthroat trout, or none at all, were stocked with additional trout. The Black Hills area and parts of Wyoming that held no native trout were first stocked from this hatchery.About the Position:
The Hatchery Operations Internship at the Leadville National Fish Hatchery offers a hands-on opportunity to gain real-world experience in fish hatchery operations and aquatic resource management. This position provides valuable training in fish care, facility maintenance, biological data collection, and public education. Interns will actively participate in feeding and rearing fish, monitoring water quality, maintaining biosecurity protocols, and assisting with fish stocking efforts that enhance both recreational angling and native species recovery. Additionally, the intern will engage with visitors, including youth, to promote awareness of Colorado’s fisheries and conservation efforts. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about fisheries science, environmental stewardship, and hands-on conservation work. The intern may also have the opportunity to assist at Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery in Hotchkiss, CO for certain periods during the term.Primary Position Duties & Responsibilities:
- Spawning and Incubation activities for Greenback Cutthroat Trout
- Feeding Fish
- Cleaning Rearing Containers
- Biological Data Collection
- Egg Care and Treatment
- Light Construction
- Plumbing
- Grounds Maintenance
- Trails Maintenance and Upkeep
- Waterflow and Chemistry Management
- Support transport and release of fish for recreational opportunities.
- Interacting with and educating the general public visiting the fish hatchery, which may include youth.
- Support Youth Education programs in partnerships with local youth organizations visiting the fish hatchery.
- Support maintaining biosecurity for threatened and endangered species
Trainings Provided:
- First Aid/CPR
- Leave No Trace
- River Watch Water Quality Monitoring
- Experiential Education
- Volunteer & Stewardship Project Coordination
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Pursuing or Completed a Degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Marine Biology, or a related natural resources field
- Basic understanding of fish biology, aquatic ecosystems, and the principles of fish care and breeding
- Comfortable engaging adults and youth giving tours of the fish hatchery
- Strong professional communication skills
- Must be willing and able to carry at least 50 pounds.
- Must be willing and able to serve occasionally in extreme weather conditions.
- Must be willing and able to serve occasional weekends.
- Applicants must hold a valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record.
- Basic computer skills
AmeriCorps Required Qualifications:
- At least 17 years old at start of service
- Must be a high school graduate, GED recipient, or working toward attaining a high school diploma or GED during the term of service.
- Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States
- Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check (state, FBI, and National Sex Offender Public Website checks) per 45 CFR 2540.202
Physical Demands and Service Environment:
This position is based at 2846 CO-300, Leadville, CO 80461. The position will involve frequent days of service outdoors, which may involve inclement weather and temperatures ranging from below zero to 80 degrees. Leadville is at high elevation, and service will be located above 10,000’. Service may involve frequently working with children and community members.Watershed Stewards AmeriCorps Program Benefits:
- Living Allowance- AmeriCorps member(s) will receive a total stipend of up to $14,400.00 ($10,800 for 900 hr term + $3,600 for 300 hr term) paid out bi-monthly at $960.00 per pay period over the course of the term. Taxes are deducted and the living allowance is distributed by direct deposit to the member.
- Housing Stipend- AmeriCorps member(s) will receive a total stipend of $4,500 paid out bi-monthly at $300.00 per pay period over the course of the term. Taxes are deducted and the housing stipend is distributed by direct deposit to the member. Dorm style housing is available at both Leadville NFH and Hotchkiss NFH.
- Education Award / Tuition Assistance- AmeriCorps member(s) can receive an Education Award upon successful completion of service in the amount of $5,262.58 ($3,697.50 for 900 hr term + $1,565.09 for 300 hr term.) This can be used to pay back student loans or further your education.
- All members receive professional development and training. Mileage reimbursement is paid for travel to required trainings.
- All members may be eligible for the Federal Assistance Program (SNAP, Medicaid, etc.)
- All members may qualify for student loan forbearance while in service.
- Alumni benefits may include priority hiring with organizations that are part of Employers of National Service and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to eliminate educational debt.
To Apply:
Submit cover letter and resume to emily@blueelements.org by January 31, 2026. Please include “Leadville National Fish Hatchery” in the subject line. In your cover letter, explain your relevant experience and your commitment to the mission of the Watershed Stewards program.Job Features
The Hatchery Operations Internship at the Leadville National Fish Hatchery offers a hands-on opportunity to gain real-world experience in fish hatchery operations and aquatic resource management. This...







