Stewardship Program Assistant

The New York City Soil and Water Conservation District seeks a full-time Stewardship Program Assistant to assist with community outreach, public communications, and general support for the District's Stewardship Program. 

The New York City Soil and Water Conservation District is a political subdivision of New York State, and a part of a network of Soil and Water Conservation Districts nationwide. The mission of the District is to conserve New York City's soil, water and other natural resources working in partnership with public agencies, community and grass roots groups, non-profit organizations, and schools. The District is governed by a board of Directors, who are appointed by the Mayor and the City Council. 

Job Description 

The Stewardship Program Assistant will work under the Stewardship Program Director in implementing the Stewardship Program. The Stewardship Program provides information, tools, and technical assistance related to water and soil quality monitoring, non-point source (NPS) pollution reduction, stormwater runoff management initiatives, and natural areas preservation and protection. The Stewardship Program reaches out to various sectors, including teachers, citizens, environmental groups, governmental agencies, and select businesses. Conducting community outreach, fostering volunteer efforts, and building partnerships are essential to the Stewardship Program. 

The Stewardship Program Assistant will primarily work on the:

* Stormwater Education and Outreach Project for the construction sector.
* NPS Pollution Business Outreach Project.
* Volunteer Monitoring Program for Teachers. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

1. Design and conduct various surveys.
2. Assist in the design of outreach materials and conduct an evaluation of their effectiveness.
3. Coordinate workshops for a variety of audiences.
4. Promote Low Impact Development through workshops, outreach and partnerships.
5. Work with the Education Coordinator on public education projects.
6. Assist with the planning and implementation of stewardship conferences.
7. Provide field assistance to teachers for water and soil quality monitoring.
8. Recruit and coordinate volunteers for various projects and events.
9. Assist the District Chair from time to time with issues related to water quality and natural areas preservation.
10. Conduct research as needed by District Chair and District Manager.
11. Assist in the publication and distribution of District brochures and newsletters.
12. Maintain and update database and website.
13. Monitor relevant websites and listserv discussions. 

Qualifications 

* Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. A degree in environmental studies, science and/or policy is preferred. 
* Excellent writing and communications skills. 
* Ability to interact with a wide-range of audiences, ages and skill levels.
* Independent working style requiring minimal supervision. 
* Willingness to assist in other program areas as part of a team effort. 
* Strong leadership and problem-solving skills. 
* Ability to multi-task and work under pressure.
* Proficiency in PC computers with a working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite. 
* Interest in and knowledge of Combined Sewer Overflow issues, and innovative approaches to stormwater management (i.e. rain gardens, rain water harvesting, green roofs, etc.) a major plus. 
* Informal education experience a plus.
* Experience with community outreach and organizing a plus. 
* Knowledge of water quality issues and local environmental issues a plus.
* Knowledge of Access and HTML a plus. 

Starting Date: Salary: July 31, 2006 $28,000 plus benefits. 

How to apply:

Please send resume via mail, email or fax to:

Aubrey McMahon
Stewardship Program Director
New York City Soil and Water Conservation District
121 Sixth Avenue, Suite 501
New York, NY 10013

Application Deadline: July 5, 2006 or until position is filled.