Watershed Restoration Associate

Title:  Watershed Restoration Associate

Location: Field (location varies throughout the Rock Creek watershed, primarily in DC and lower Montgomery County) 

Reports to:  Senior Watershed Restoration Coordinator 

Type: Hourly, non-exempt, approximately 30 hours/week are expected 

Schedule: Monday to Friday, generally 8am – 3pm; hours will vary based on weather and work conditions 

Position Overview

Watershed Restoration Associates support the Conservancy’s mission to restore Rock Creek through a wide range of direct restoration activities, including green infrastructure maintenance and vegetation management (invasive plant removal) 

Major responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Inspect and document the condition of green infrastructure facilities, including rain gardens, bioswales, and conservation landscaping
• Perform maintenance as needed on green infrastructure facilities, including weeding, sediment removal, mulching, and planting
• Identify and remove non-native invasive vines, herbs, and woody plants from natural areas
• At least once per week, drive Conservancy truck to the daily work location with tools and other supplies
• Other duties as assigned

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to transport self to a worksite each day (location will vary, primarily in NW DC)
• A valid driver’s license is required
• Reliable and punctual, capable of regular attendance
• Able to work as a member of a team and perform individual tasks
• Able to stand for long periods and walk up to three miles per shift
• Willing and able to lift up to fifty pounds
• Willing to occasionally use power tools (training and PPE will be provided)
• Willing to work outdoors, including in conditions that range from cold to hot and humid.
• Able to professionally communicate with residents and co-workers
• Able to carefully document data in digital and analog formats
• Excellent attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in and/or knowledge of green infrastructure, landscaping, plant identification
• Knowledge of customer service, or environmental advocacy, best practices
• Certification from the National Green Infrastructure Program and/or Chesapeake Bay Landscape Program (both offered to employees)
• First Aid & CPR/AED certification is a plus; will be provided if needed

About Rock Creek Conservancy: Rock Creek Conservancy is a watershed organization protecting Rock Creek and the philanthropic and stewardship partner to the entirety of Rock Creek (National) Park. The Conservancy’s mission is to restore Rock Creek and its parklands as a natural oasis for all people to appreciate and protect.