This position is with the Coastal Carolina Riverwatch, based in Beaufort, North Carolina.

Coastal Carolina Riverwatch (CCRW) is a water quality nonprofit 501c3 organization and Waterkeeper Alliance affiliate that aims to protect water quality and quality of life in coastal North Carolina. CCRW does this through boots-on-the-ground monitoring, outreach, and advocacy in our communities. CCRW serves 129 miles of coastline in the White Oak River Basin which includes the New, White Oak, Newport, and North Rivers. We are a project based organization that uses community concerns and staff observations to direct our water quality work. We prioritize work based on the community’s access to resources, the threats from climate change and environmental contaminants to ensure underserved areas are being supported.

**NOTICE** This position is subject to continued federal and state funding, as AmeriCorps is under a 30% reduction in member slots for the 2024-2025 service year. We anticipate that by mid-May 2024 we will know which positions (if not all) will be available to start on our normal service year timeline. All applicants will be notified if this position is not funded.**NOTICE**

This 2024-2025 AmeriCorps position will have a start date of September 4th 2024 and an end date of July 31st 2025. Deadline to apply is June 14th 2024, and applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Don't delay in applying!

**Please make sure you upload all of the required documents -  Resume, Cover Letter, State or Federal ID, and Birth Certificate or US Passport/US Permanent Resident Card.** If required documents are not uploaded at time of application, any offer for employment may be withheld until they are provided. All AmeriCorps Members must submit to having a National Sex Offender, State of Residence (if state is different than NC), State of NC, and Federal FBI Background check conducted. Any applicant denying to submit to these checks will be automatically disqualified as per federal regulations.

For the 2024-2025 service year, Resilience Corps NC operates a 11 month 1700-hour service position that offers a living stipend of $31,000, health insurance reimbursement for premiums purchased on the ACA Healthcare Exchange, childcare assistance, and professional development opportunities (individual trainings, enrollment in NC Environmental Education Certificate Program, and conferences in conjunction with VolunteerNC). Members are also eligible to sign up for SNAP benefits. Participants who complete the program will receive a Segal Education Award of $7,395 from the National Service Trust.

CTNC is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate because of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, sexual preference or familial status.

CTNC seeks to engage applicants from underrepresented communities, particularly of Asian, Black, Hispanic, Multi-Racial, and Native American background, in conservation careers. Connecting more diverse applicants to an employment pathway has led to greater equity, diversity and inclusion of all people in conservation.

Purpose of the Position

The AmeriCorps member working under CCRW's Water Quality for Fisheries (WQ4F) program will play a vital role in capacity-building efforts by assisting with fieldwork, volunteer coordination, and community outreach. The member will support the expansion of CCRW's services and outreach efforts, contributing to greater community engagement and awareness of environmental issues in coastal North Carolina.

Position Responsibilities and Duties

Community Outreach and Education:

• Host screenings, workshops, and educational programs to raise stakeholders' awareness of water quality issues.
• Develop educational materials and curriculum on water quality, fisheries management, and environmental stewardship for community outreach programs.
• Engage with commercial, recreational, and subsistence fishers and other community members to gather input and build partnerships for collaborative solutions.

Volunteer Recruitment and Coordination:

• Recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers to assist with fieldwork, outreach events, and data collection.
• Develop volunteer management systems to ensure effective utilization of volunteer resources.
• Implement strategies to improve volunteer retention rates and cultivate a committed volunteer base.

Field Work Assistance:

• Assist the Waterkeeper with fieldwork activities, including water quality monitoring, sample collection, and post-research outreach.
• Collect data and research to identify key water quality concerns and inform advocacy efforts.

Event Planning and Hosting:

• Plan, organize, and host outreach events, workshops, and a symposium in impacted communities to share project results and engage stakeholders.
• Promote community involvement in water quality initiatives through targeted event planning and outreach efforts.

Partnership Development:

• Develop partnerships with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to leverage resources and support collaborative projects.

Professional Development:

• Actively participate in training opportunities, workshops, and professional development activities to enhance water quality monitoring skills, community engagement, and environmental conservation skills and knowledge.

Adherence to Safety Protocols:

• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and procedures during fieldwork and outdoor activities to ensure the well-being of oneself and others.

Expected Outcomes:

• Community Education: Increase event attendance, raise awareness of CCRW's WQ4F program, and enhance participation in citizen science projects.
• Volunteerism: Recruit a more extensive and committed volunteer base, improve retention rates, and increase volunteer involvement in ongoing activities.
• Events Planned: Host screenings, workshops, and a symposium in impacted communities, expand CCRW's presence within underserved populations and promote environmental stewardship and resilience.
• Evaluation and Reporting: Regularly assess progress towards goals through project update meetings, tracking time and milestones, and collecting data on individuals served and volunteers recruited and managed.

Qualifications 

• Educational Background: A bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, natural resources management, science education, or a related field is preferred. Relevant coursework or experience in water quality monitoring, fisheries management, or environmental education is a bonus.
• Experience: Previous experience in community outreach, volunteer coordination, environmental education, or related fields is desirable.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effectively engaging with diverse stakeholders including impacted communities, fishers, community members, government agencies, and partner organizations.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational skills are required to manage multiple tasks, projects, and deadlines effectively. The ability to prioritize tasks and work independently with minimal supervision is crucial.
• Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a small team and establish positive working relationships with colleagues, volunteers, and external partners.
• Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data collection, documentation, and reporting. Ability to follow protocols and procedures consistently to ensure the quality and integrity of collected data.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Google Suite and experience with GIS tools is desirable. Willingness to learn and use new software and technologies as needed.
• Passion for Environmental Conservation: A genuine interest in environmental conservation, water quality protection, and community engagement. Demonstrated commitment to making a positive impact on local ecosystems and communities.
• Physical Ability: Ability to perform fieldwork in various weather conditions and outdoor environments, including walking on uneven terrain, lifting equipment, and working near water bodies.
• Driver's License: A valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation are required for travel to field sites, community events, and meetings within the service area.

Essential Functions / Physical Demands

• The member will be required to participate in Field sampling which requires moderate exertion including walking to sampling sites located in woods and along streambanks. The member will also be required to represent CCRW at community events which can involve being outside and standing for multiple hours.
• The member will be required to host events in locations throughout CCRW’s two county service area. This will require extended car rides (2 hours at one time - max) and standing when presenting at events.

Preferred Schedule

The Water Quality for Fisheries Community Ambassador will be required to serve during CCRW regular staff hours of 8am - 5pm, with occasional community events in the evening and weekends.

Duties not requiring in-person activities can be completed virtually at home or at CCRW’s lab.

JOB CODE: CCRW