Conservation Associate

JOB TITLE: Conservation Associate

POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Associate

SALARY BAND: A

REPORTS TO: Director, Clean Water 
LOCATION:  Remote within the MidAtlantic Region

About American Rivers

American Rivers is a national conservation organization working to make every river clean and healthy for people and wildlife. We combine evidence-based solutions with enduring partnerships to safeguard the 4.4 million miles of rivers and streams that are essential to our nation’s clean drinking water, extraordinary wildlife, and the strength of our communities. For more than 50 years, our staff, supporters, and partners have been driven by a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers.

The beauty of rivers is that they connect all people and communities – including within our organization. The life experiences, knowledge, innovation, and talent that different people bring to our work provides perspectives, experiences, and competencies which are critical to our effectiveness in protecting wild rivers, restoring damaged rivers, and conserving clean water for people and nature.

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a Conservation Associate to support the MidAtlantic regional team at American Rivers. The Conservation Associate will be responsible for developing outreach materials, coordinating in-person events, conducting desktop river restoration feasibility assessments, and staffing 2-3 in-person events in Philadelphia, PA. Attendance at occasional weekend and/or evening events may be necessary. This role will primarily support the regional team, but will also include opportunities to participate in organization-wide Communities of Practice, Brown Bag learning sessions, and routine staff meetings.

This is a part-time, temporary position for a duration of 14 consecutive weeks beginning in approximately February, 2026, with a possible opportunity for extension into the summer. Approximately 10 hours per week of work will be required (weekly schedule to be defined).

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

In partnership with a consulting specialist, support the development of an engagement program for communities in the Cobbs Creek Watershed in Philadelphia using the Photovoice framework.

Support the MidAtlantic Clean Water Director in organizing and hosting a series of photography-based community engagement events in Philadelphia, PA, including planning, contracting, and other administrative support (1-2 in-person visits to Philadelphia may be required).

Provide remote support for a small-scale water sampling effort as needed.

Summarize habitat data and develop educational materials about plants and animals living in Cobbs Creek (may include presentations, posters, fliers, or walking tour curricula).

Table at 1-2 in-person community events in Philadelphia (dates tbd).

Participate in virtual meetings.

Conduct desktop site assessments to obtain relevant environmental and land use/ownership data for potential river restoration sites.

Develop supporting data for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Environmental Assessment.

Design a community engagement strategy for a rural dam removal project.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelors degree in environmental science, policy, planning, or related field; masters degree a plus;

1-3 years experience working in environmental education, community engagement, or organizing;

Experience designing, coordinating, and hosting educational and outreach events;

Strong working knowledge of river conservation and clean water issues;

Strong communication skills (verbal and written);

Ability to develop simple visual outreach materials such as fliers, memos, postcards, and posters using basic desktop software

Candidates who are unsure if they meet all minimum qualifications or who have transferrable skills and experience beyond the conservation sector are encouraged to apply.

LOCATION Remote within Northeast/MidAtlantic Region

COMPENSATION 
American Rivers offers marketable compensation that reflects the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. The salary for this part-time, temporary position is a non-exempt hourly rate of twenty-three dollars and fifty cents ($23.50) per hour.  Time off will be provided on a pro-rated basis including, paid leave, sick leave, standard, and floating holidays.

At American Rivers, we are committed to supporting our employee’s well-being, professional growth, and financial security, ensuring they can thrive both at work and in life.

COMMUNITY AND OPPORTUNITY

At American Rivers, our core values drive everything we do – we Lead with Collaboration and Trust, Infuse Equity and Justice, Deliver Results, and Ensure Staff and Volunteers Thrive. We are committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to make a difference.

We also ensure leadership stays connected to staff needs through an internal advisory group, fostering open communication and continuous improvement.

At American Rivers, our people are our strength, and we are dedicated to building a thriving, inclusive workplace where everyone can grow and contribute to our mission.

American Rivers is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources department at 202-243-7040 or [email protected]. Please note that one week’s advance notice is preferred.

Applicant must be legally allowed to work as an employee in the United States. American Rivers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Candidates of all personal and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply.