River Restoration Assistant

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

The assistant position will conduct work on two projects in collaboration with agency and private partners.  This role provides capacity to work on general river restoration enabling factors and dam removal feasibility related to irrigation delivery.  Work directly supports barrier removal and floodplain restoration.  Minimal to no field work, office related work, may include virtual attendance of gatherings, meetings and interviews.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Project Delivery:

• Assist Montana River Restoration team on specific research projects

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Current undergraduate or graduate student in the Montana University system, course of study in natural resources, basic knowledge of GIS

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

LOCATION

Remote within Montana

COMPENSATION American Rivers offers marketable compensation that reflects the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. The hourly rate for this assistant is $20/hour, not to exceed 380 hours, part-time seasonal between April 15-August 30, 2026.

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.