300 Hour AmeriCorps Position

~ Here at the Mountain Watershed Association, home of the Youghiogheny Riverkeeper, we are dedicated to protecting, preserving and restoring the Indian Creek and greater Youghiogheny River watersheds. ~

We are dedicated to protecting, preserving and restoring the Indian Creek and greater Youghiogheny River watersheds.  We have a unique approach in that we pursue on-the-ground restoration of past damage while also advocating on local issues (primarily coal and shale gas extraction) as well as regional and national issues that have a local impact.  We hold polluters and environmental regulators accountable in order to protect communities and the environment.  

We conduct patrols, pursue increased stream protections and unsuitable for mining designations in sensitive areas, and through our Marcellus Citizen Stewardship Project, advocate for tighter regulations on shale gas development.  We use state and federal laws to ensure communities and our water are protected.  We file complaints with regulatory authorities and investigate citizen complaints.  

Position Overview

This 300 hour AmeriCorps Position is offered through the Pennsylvania Mountain Service Corporation and is a 300 hour temporary position from May 15 – August 7, 2020. Member will serve at Mountain Watershed Association, 1414 Indian Creek Valley Road, Melcroft PA 15462

Responsibilities

• Collect water quality samples at 14 locations within the Youghiogheny River watershed each week through the swimming season. After collecting the samples the member will process the samples, analyze the samples and report the samples to swimguide.org.
• Assist with implement outreach activities to educate community members about the quality of water and the safety of water contact recreation within waters sampled regarding bacteria.
• Assist in conducting biological and chemical water quality monitoring.
• Assist in conducting routine maintenance activities at abandoned mine drainage treatment systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or working towards a degree in environmental science, biology, or related field. Course work in fields of ecology, biology, environmental disturbances, or related topics.
• Field experience, including physical, chemical, and biological water quality monitoring.
• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and independent worker.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel when required.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and a willingness to develop additional skills as needed.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Child Abuse, and FBI Clearances will be required for selected candidate.

Compensation

Member will receive a $300 living stipend every two weeks, and an education award of $1,289.95 will be awarded when candidate meets all the terms of their agreement with Pennsylvania Mountain Service Corps.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to upload your cover letter and resume with "300 Hour AmeriCorps Position" indicated in the subject line.