Program Coordinator

Since 2005, The Whitefish Lake Institute (WLI) has collaborated with individuals, organizations, groups, and agencies to protect water quality in the Whitefish Lake Watershed. Addressing long-term aquatic resource protection takes time and patience. It requires a program to monitor change over time. WLI has worked for almost 20 years to collect scientific data and understand the physical, biological, and chemical dynamics of Whitefish Lake. Milestone events that have marked our progress are timelined below.

OVERVIEW

The WLI, a leader in water quality monitoring, research, and education, is seeking a Program Coordinator to join our non-profit team in Whitefish, Montana. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Program Coordinator will play a key role in multiple aspects and initiatives of the organization. As part of a small but high impact non-profit team, the Program Coordinator will play a significant role helping WLI fulfill its mission to protect and improve water quality in the Whitefish area.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Core Responsibilities

• Coordinate and train volunteers in the Northwest Montana Lakes Network (NMLN)
• Visit all 41 lakes in the NMLN once per year (July 15-August 15) to collect basic limnological information as coordinated with the lake volunteer(s)
• Data input and analysis for NMLN and other programs
• Conduct Aquatic Invasive Species early detection monitoring and control techniques
• Coordinate K-12 and adult educational opportunities, including visits to the WLI owned Viking Creek Wetland Preserve
• Coordinate the planning and execution of the Science Quencher (semi-annual)
• Co-coordinate the Montana Lakes Conference (4-year cycle—next event 2027)
• Supervise undergraduate summer intern
• Develop work plans and implementation schedules with the ED

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in staff meetings, board meetings and WLI sponsored events
• Assist in data collection for the Whitefish Long-term Water Quality Monitoring Program that includes Whitefish Lake and local streams
• Draft articles and assistance in the production of the organization’s quarterly newsletter LakeFront
• Assist in special research projects
• Assist with boat and equipment maintenance
• Serve on external committees
• Fulfill miscellaneous tasks associated with a small non-profit corporation as assigned by ED

DESIRED SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS & QUALITIES

• Minimum B.S. or B.A. in a natural resource related field with emphasis in water quality and/or aquatic ecology with five years of experience
• Command of major software programs including the Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher). Experience with GIS and R preferred but not required
• Exceptional communication skills both oral and written
• Proven collaboration and relationship-building skills and ability to work effectively with diverse people, funders, and partners
• Ability to forge strong relationships with volunteers and landowners
• Capacity to juggle multiple tasks in a high-energy environment
• Flexible, reliable, and self-directed work style
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Positive, motivated, energetic, and empathetic attitude
• Must be able to operate multiple types of watercraft, including trailering and transport
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Passion for the aquatic resources of a small but vital watershed located at the headwaters of the Columbia River Basin.

Job Type: Full-time

COMPENSATION

Pay: $65,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Ability to Commute:

• Whitefish, MT 59937 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Whitefish, MT 59937: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person