Junior Forest Technician Crew Leader

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety. Position Summary We are looking to employ a dedicated Crew Leader to supervise the activities of our Junior Forest Technician (JFT) program. The Crew Leader’s responsibilities include managing a team of five or more high school agriscience students, supervising daily work in the field and planning activities with the Land Manager. To be successful as a Crew Leader you should demonstrate strong leadership and management skills and have experience in the field of natural resources and environmental sciences. The JFT program at the Bent of the River Audubon Center reinforces and enhances technical high school curriculum with real-world applications in the forest conservation field. Students pursue forestry-related curriculum at school, and then complete direct forest conservation work with Audubon as part of their school Student Agricultural Experience (SAE) work requirement. Students complete much of the SAE experience with Audubon in the summer months with opportunities throughout the year for JFT’s to meet, work with, and be guided by their Audubon mentors, both in the field and through enhanced classroom curriculum materials. Initiated by Audubon Connecticut in 2013, the JFT program provides immersive and comprehensive training, mentoring, and summer internships in the field of forestry to high school and vocational school students. Students receive hands‑on training in forestry ecology and habitat management, invasive plant species and forest bird identification and monitoring, plant propagation, public outreach, and job preparedness, empowering students with valuable new conservation and work skills. About the Bent of the River Audubon Center The Bent of the River Audubon Center is a 700-acre nature sanctuary, education, and conservation action center located in Southbury, Connecticut. Its mission is to conserve birds, other wildlife, and their habitats by engaging the community and inspiring a lifelong appreciation of nature. This position is classified as onsite at the Bent of the River Audubon Center in Southbury, CT. This is a seasonal, part‑time position working 7 hours per day and up to 25 hours per week, starting June 16, 2026 through August 27, 2026. Compensation $20.00 - $22.00 per hour Essential Functions Supervise activities of JFTs including forest and river surveying. Educate crew members on proper habitat management techniques, equipment uses, and chainsaw safety. Work with land manager and CT forester in an updated Forest Management Plan. Lead the development of curriculum and programs. This will include new forest surveys intended for monitoring woodthrush habitat (WOTH-Party Training) and collaboration with ACT/NY forest team and DEEP Bird‑Friendly Maple site visits. Assist Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work. Schedule JFT workdays with the Land Manager, which include activities, habitat work, hosts, and guest speakers. Act as a liaison between land manager and field professionals. Assist the Land Manager with field videography and edit short tutorial videos. Organize and oversee the repair and maintenance of equipment, vehicles, and surveying instruments. Monitor habitat management supplies and place orders for new stock as required. Assist JFTs with daily work and processing forest and water quality data. Assist the Land Manager with habitat management. Work with volunteers and organize volunteer workdays. Qualifications and Experience High school diploma or GED. Proven management experience in science and natural resources. Ability to work well with others. Valid driver’s license. Proficiency with recording devices and editing software. CPR/First Aid certification. Ability to work outdoors in all conditions. Effective communication skills. Excellent organizational and time‑management skills. Ability to lift heavy objects up to 75 lbs. Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation. Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. Accessibility Statement The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. 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