Join to apply for the Seasonal Project Assistant role at Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
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Join to apply for the Seasonal Project Assistant role at Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
This is a temporary full-time, (35 hours/week), Non-Exempt position. The anticipated salary for this position is $21/hour, commensurate with education and experience. On-site or nearby housing is available for the duration of the position.
Position Summary
The Microbial Ecology and Soil Science (MESS) and Stewart-Merrill Labs at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies are hiring up to two Seasonal Project Assistants to support field and laboratory research focused on soil health, microbial ecology and aquatic disease ecology. Projects will investigate how agricultural practices and global environmental change impact soil systems and will explore natural history of local waterborne infections. The position is based in Millbrook, NY, and will run from June 1 to approximately September 15, 2025.
Essential Responsibilities
* Participate in the design, implementation, and monitoring of soil and microbial research projects
* Conduct soil sampling, wetland sampling, and field data collection (e.g., soil temperature, moisture, CO₂ levels, water temperature and turbidity)
* Collect and process soil samples for invertebrate, nematode, and microbial analyses
* Conduct nematode and invertebrate extractions (e.g., Berlese funnel extractions)
* Identify invertebrates using a dissecting microscope and compound microscope
* Dissect and visualize invertebrates for parasite isolation and identification
* Perform laboratory tasks such as weighing soil samples for NC analysis
* Maintain field sites, including tasks like mowing and woody plant removal
* Maintain general laboratory organization, including culturing algae and zooplankton and assisting with experimental protocols
* Potential involvement in advanced lab analyses, such as enzyme assays, gas analyses, and stable isotope work
Required Qualifications
* Prior experience performing physical work outdoors in various weather conditions
* Capability to perform repetitive and detail-oriented tasks
* Experience with designing or following experimental protocols
* Valid NY State driver’s license and ability to drive up to 2 hours for fieldwork
Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in soil or ecological fieldwork, including sample or measurement collection
* Familiarity with invertebrate or grassland plant identification
* Academic background in biogeochemistry, ecology, or soil science
Required Skills
* Ability to follow detailed instructions and work independently
* Capability to perform repetitive and detail-oriented tasks
* Willingness to work collaboratively in team settings
* Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
* Comfortable working in both laboratory and field environments
* Ability to lift, carry, and process soil samples and equipment
* Proficiency in basic field instrumentation and ecological data collection methods
Working Conditions
* This is a non-exempt, non-benefited, seasonal position
* Work is conducted both outdoors (in varied field conditions) and indoors (laboratory settings)
* Physical labor includes walking over uneven terrain, kneeling, and lifting equipment
* Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use hands for long periods.
* Must be able to lift, carry, and move heavy objects up to 50 pounds
Closing Date: Position is open until filled. Application review begins May 15, 2025.
To Apply
Please submit one document that includes a cover letter, resume and the names and full contact information (including e-mail address) for three professional references.
The Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Institute to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, familial status, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
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