We're Hiring!

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NYC Plover Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working to protect Piping Plovers, endangered and imperiled shorebirds that nest each year along the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. 

Founded in March 2021, NYC Plover Project (NYCPP) is about to kick off the third year of its popular volunteer program, together with its partner, Gateway National Recreation Area, National Park Service (NPS). In 2021, NYCPP had more than 40 volunteers, growing to 75 volunteers in 2022, conducting nearly 3,000 hours of volunteer service. Volunteers conduct a number of tasks, primarily serving as beach ambassadors for the birds and their nesting sites. 

NYC Plover Project is looking to hire (2) volunteer coordinators to split the responsibilities and schedule throughout the season. The purpose of these roles is to help recruit and retain committed volunteers and manage the overall effort. 

In 2023, NYC Plover Project is looking to expand to 100 volunteers and conduct a volunteer effort from mid-April until mid-August, in addition to set-up days in March, installing signage and fencing. This position is based in Rockaway, Queens and focused on the beaches of the western end of the Rockaway Peninsula – Fort Tilden, Breezy Point Tip and Jacob Riis Park. We are also expanding our efforts in Arverne, Edgemere and Far Rockaway.  It is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking for hands-on wildlife protection experience in a beautiful outdoor setting. 

The volunteer coordinator(s) will serve as the primary point of contact for volunteers and potential volunteers, and will report to NYC Plover Project director and founder, Chris Allieri. While this position is a hybrid role of in-person and remote, it is highly desired that the person(s) in this role spend 3-4 days on-site at Jamaica Bay Unit beach locations once the season is fully underway (late-May through early-August). 

• Coordinate and oversee volunteers on the beach, weekend location at Jacob Riis Park and at community tabling events
• Serve as principal contact person(s) for volunteers as needed
• Help to recruit new volunteers and retain those from past seasons
• Participate in training, supervising, encouraging, and recognizing the work of volunteers
• Manage volunteer schedule, following up with volunteers to sign up for shifts.
• Assist with coordination, distribution and ordering of volunteer materials. 
• Serve as moderator(s) for the volunteer Slack channel, responding to volunteer queries in a timely fashion
• Conduct work shifts during high priority times, and at times, filling in where we don’t have volunteers at high priority locations and times
• Conduct follow-up with volunteers after shifts, capturing data and feedback to help share with other volunteers, NYC Plover Project and NPS
• Assist in the research and retention of a new volunteer software/scheduling database
• Coordinate closely with designated NPS staff
• Participate in community events to educate about the NYC Plover Project
• Other duties as assigned

• Knowledge and/or interest in endangered species and biodiversity
• Excellent verbal communicator and people skills, with an ability to diffuse potential conflict situations and personality types
• Highly-organized and attention to detail
• Associate’s or BA or current student in natural sciences, biology or ecology
• Ability to form positive relationships with a wide variety of volunteers and community partners
• Patient, positive, and resourceful problem-solver
• Ability to work well independently and as a team member
• Flexibility and ability to work with multiple demands and distractions
• Commitment to diverse, equitable and inclusive organizational culture
• Volunteer coordination experience is not required but a definite plus
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather and variable terrain
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Intermediate shorebird knowledge a great asset
• Experience with and ability to use various software, including Microsoft Office and Google 
• Rockaway Peninsula residents strongly encouraged to apply

The role begins in late March, ramping up in late April, with the height of the season extending from May until early August. Scheduling and shifts will be shared across the two positions. 

Competitive hourly wage, paid weekly based upon hours worked.