AWI Part-Time Field Technician

Position: AWI Part-Time Field Technician

Status: Part-time (20-48 hours per month during February, April, May, July, September), non-exempt, staff

Department: Adirondack Watershed Institute

Reports to: Field Operations Manager

Salary: $20-25.00/hour

Description:

The Paul Smiths College Adirondack Watershed Institute is hiring a part-time field technician position to support its Water Quality staff in the field. We are looking for someone who likes to be outdoors in sometimes inclement weather and work at remote locations in the region. The position will contribute to AWIs research and monitoring projects on nearly 100 water bodies across the Adirondacks. Fieldwork can include hiking up to 14 miles to remote locations and often requires working 10+ hours/ day including driving long hours, sometimes 3-5 hours a day.

The mission of the Paul Smiths College Adirondack Watershed Institute is to protect clean water, conserve habitat, and support the health and wellbeing of people in the Adirondacks through scientific inquiry, stewardship, and real-world experiences for students.

Responsibilities:

• Provide sample transportation between AWI laboratory and Albany, NY periodically.

• Assist with AWI research projects and contracted work in various ways, including but not limited to:

• Collect physical, chemical, and biological samples from lakes and streams throughout the year in all weather conditions, including in winter, oftentimes in remote backcountry locations.

• Help maintain AWIs field gear, instrument calibration and pre-fieldwork prep.

• Help with equipment decontamination.

• Support field operations such as: general organization, cleanliness and upkeep of equipment and instruments.

• Record keeping and data entry.

• Other duties relating to the mission of AWI as needed.

Term of Appointment:

Year-round, primarily in the months of February, April, May, July, & September. Work is scheduled Monday Thursday. Must be able to work flexible days and hours. Hours and days per week will vary based on the workflow of projects and will be scheduled 3-4 weeks in advance. Anticipated 20-48 hours each of the months listed above.

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to work in inclement weather outdoors, including on motorized and non-motorized watercraft (i.e., canoes).
• Ability to spend an extended amount of time on your feet.
• Ability to hike and ski with a heavy pack over long distances.
• Experience with land navigation and working in remote outdoor environments. Ability to lift 40 lb.
• New York State Drivers license and driving record acceptable to the Colleges insurance carrier.
• Applicants must have access to a dependable personal vehicle.
• Ability to perform duties independently and proactively.
• Ability to commit to at least 3 days of work during the months of February, April, May, July, & September.
• Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive workplace.

Preferred Qualifications:

• College coursework in environmental science, chemistry, biology, geology, or other natural sciences
• A genuine interest in environmental science and a desire to gain experience in the field.

Application submissions due by: May 1st, 2026

To Apply:

Applicants should complete the online application and submit a cover letter, resume or CV, and contact information for three professional references.

Paul Smiths College is an equal opportunity employer. Position descriptions are created that focus on essential functions, using inclusive language, and avoid unnecessary or discriminatory requirements.