HOW TO APPLY Interested applicants should submit a cover letter to Vice President of Human Resources demonstrating interest in the position and a resume to [email protected]. Indicate job code: Seasonal Science & Education Associate 2026 in the subject line of the email. No phone calls please.
Job Summary
- The Trust’s River Project educates over 30,000 people each year through free and low-cost programming that connects people of all ages to our local waterways and inspires the next generation of River stewards. Seasonal Science & Education Associates (SEAs) will assist in furthering the Park’s mission of protecting its 400-acre Estuarine Sanctuary and stewardship of the Hudson River through science and education.
- Seasonal SEAs will lead a wide range of hands-on STEM programs for NYC students and the general public throughout Hudson River Park. They will also gain an understanding of local estuarine research, wildlife and habitat enhancement projects. Maintenance of the Wetlab, a 3,500-gallon flow-through aquarium system, will be another task shared amongst the River Project team.
- Successful candidates will have prior experience working with the public and/or prior knowledge of environmental/marine science. We seek team players who want to gain experience in the environmental field by using the Park as a classroom to provide impactful educational experiences. This position is an excellent opportunity for those interested in urban environmental education, science communication and field ecology.
Essential Job Responsibilities/Functions
- Teach the Park’s environmental education programs including summer camp field trips focused on River wildlife, shoreline ecology, plankton microscopy and more
- Support the Park’s estuarine research and community science projects on such topics as oysters, fish ecology, marine debris and Park sustainability
- Implement public education programs at both indoor and outdoor locations throughout the Park, including guided tours and open hours at the Wetlab aquarium and Pier 57 Discovery Tank
- Teach catch & release fishing and handle fishing equipment, live fish and bait
- Support the ongoing maintenance of fish tanks and learn to handle live fish and other marine wildlife
- Assist with the development of teaching materials and learning resources to be used in education programs and facilities
- Assist with the maintenance of the Park’s scientific equipment such as fish traps, flow through tank system and oyster structures
Other Duties: This job description is not intended to cover all the activities, duties and responsibilities that are required of the position. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Completion of at least two years towards a Bachelor’s or an Associate’s Degree or at least one year of equivalent relevant experience • Coursework focused on either marine, environmental or biological sciences or education is preferred
- Strong interest in teaching diverse audiences a variety of environmental themes
- Aligned with the Park’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, we look for applicants with a strong interest in environmental justice
- Comfort interacting with members of the public in a friendly and professional manner
- Ability to work as a part of a team, multitask and problem solve
- Strong organizational, time management and communication skills
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- Willingness to get muddy, handle live animals, work outside in all weather conditions and practice catch and release fishing
- Ability to lift approximately 30 pounds in preferred
- Either a valid driver’s license or ability to ride a bicycle is preferred
Schedule
- Standard work schedule is typically Tuesday to Saturday including some evening hours
- An example work schedule is as follows (please note this is subject to change):
- Tuesdays 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesdays 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursdays 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Fridays 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturdays 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
