This position requires that you become enrolled in AmeriCorps. If you are selected for this program please be sure to accept AmeriCorps during the SCA offer process. No travel allowance will be offered for this position even if it is stated on your confirmation of acceptance.
Due to Covid-19, events and trainings are subject to change in response to an increase in the number of cases in the Hudson Valley region. Such changes include, but are not limited to: trainings being held remotely, requesting symptomatic members to stay home from events, and asking members to test prior to Corps gatherings.
SCA Hudson Valley AmeriCorps partners with State and non-profit agencies to address the conservation needs of the Hudson River Watershed region. Corps members are placed at individual host sites, where service activities range from providing environmental education to underserved youth, to restoring streambanks along the Hudson River, and beyond. Members join together regularly for trainings, service projects, or other events.
This position is located at the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Headquarters in Albany, NY.
Purpose of the Program:
To collect GPS data relating to the trails, infrastructure, and utilities on NY State Park property and to conduct post project completion surveys on LWCF funded municipal park projects. GPS data collection will provide important information to update critical GIS databases. Additional duties will involve working with Park Planners and Environmental Analysts on planning projects and SEQR review.
Community Needs that the Program Serves:
Patrons that visit NY State Parks or recreation facilities funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
Values and Standards of the Program: SCA’s mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
AmeriCorps Member Duties and Responsibilities:
Under supervision of GIS and Data Bureau staff, conduct fieldwork relating to park utilities, trails and other infrastructure. This position will involve coordinating fieldwork with the individual parks. The SCA member will conduct the fieldwork under the supervision of a GIS Bureau staff person. Travel will be required. Specialized training in the software and hardware that the GIS Bureau uses is helpful but not necessary. Experience with GPS and GIS concepts is necessary. Familiarity with utility data collection is helpful but not necessary.
Under the supervision of Planning Bureau staff, qualified candidate will conduct in person interviews of park patrons and conduct inspections of municipal recreation projects that were funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
How the AmeriCorps Member’s Role Aligns with the Organization:
Aids with critical data collection needs that inform decisions made by GIS and regional staff.
Performance Goals for the AmeriCorps Member:
Goal 1: Collect high quality trail, infrastructure and utility GPS data, and Integrate collected data in to statewide GIS database
Goal 2: Conduct post project completion inspections on LWCF Projects and conduct Park Patron visitor satisfaction surveys.
Goal 3: Assist Planners and Analysts with critical work relating to park planning as well as environmental analysis.
Candidate Qualifications:
- Ability to pass a background check.
- Valid driver license of 3 years with a clean driving record.
- BS or BA in natural resources, planning, forestry, environmental science, geography or GIS.
- At least 18 years of age.
Skills/Knowledge/Training Necessary to be a successful AmeriCorps Member in this position:
Skills: Able to work outdoors in a variety of conditions, good communication skills both written and orally, organized, able to document work well, able to work independently and in a team.
Knowledge: ESRI’s ArcGIS suite of software, including ArcMap is desirable. Familiarity with Trimble GPS Units and associated software is helpful. Familiarity with ArcGIS Online and Survey123 is helpful.
Training: On the job training provided in GIS Bureau’s GPS data collection and cartographic templates
Benefits:
Amount of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award being offered for successful completion of the member’s term of service: $6,495
Amount of living allowance member will receive:
$350/week living allowance
$1,000/month housing allowance upstate (if housing is not provided)
$1,100/month housing allowance in NYC (if housing is not provided)
Healthcare coverage (if applicable):
Eligible for free health insurance
Childcare coverage (if applicable):
Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps
Student loan forbearance and interest payments, (if the member qualifies): Eligible for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans.
Training Opportunities:
All Hudson Valley Corps members receive Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Environmental Leadership Institute, Hudson River Citizen Science curricula, Trail Skills, Project WILD curricula, and professional development. Optional trainings include Leave No Trace, Mental Health First Aid, and other opportunities that arise.
Position ID: PO-00736086
Expected Dates: January 22, 2024 - November 18, 2024
Location:
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
Albany, NY 12238
US
Professional Development Opportunities: Training: On the job training provided in GIS Bureau’s GPS data collection and cartographic templates.
All Hudson Valley Corps members receive Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Hudson River Citizen Science curricula, Trail Skills, Project WET, and professional development. Optional trainings include Leave No Trace, and other opportunities that arise.
Handicap Accessible?: No
Main Area of Focus: Geographic Info Systems (GIS, includes GPS)
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Required
A personal vehicle is required to access amenities such as grocery stores, libraries, etc. as well as travel to Hudson Valley Corps trainings and events.
Housing or Stipend Provided?
C.Partner will pay the SCA to provide housing allowance for the member.
Indoor/Outdoor: Combination
US Citizenship: Yes