About the role
Job Title: Field Coordinator Department: Center for Education and Ecosystem Studies Employment Type: Full-Time-Academic YR
Make a Difference in Science, Education, and Restoration! Montana Technological University is seeking a qualified, enthusiastic, and motivated Field Coordinator to join Ripple: The Center for Education & Ecosystem Studies. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine concepts from environmental science, ecological restoration, hands-on fieldwork, and place-based education to support the long-term health and sustainability of the Upper Clark Fork Watershed. The successful candidate will play an important role in connecting scientific research and restoration practices with meaningful educational experiences that help students, educators, and community partners better understand watershed ecology, environmental challenges, and the importance of responsible land stewardship.
The Field Coordinator will operate out of Montana Tech's campus in Butte, MT, and they will be responsible for the following primary duties. Contribute to the development and implementation of restoration-focused educational programming in schools. Work collaboratively with teachers, students, researchers, land managers, restoration practitioners, and community stakeholders. Assist with the creation of learning opportunities that connect classroom instruction with real-world examples. Conduct reclamation and restoration site evaluations. Support field research with scientific data collection. Collaborate with partner organizations on Low-Tech, Place-Based Restoration initiatives designed to improve watershed function and ecological resilience.
This position is ideal for a collaborative professional who is passionate about environmental restoration, science education, and community engagement. The Field Coordinator will help strengthen partnerships among educational institutions, scientific organizations, and restoration practitioners while supporting efforts to improve ecological understanding and stewardship across the watershed.
Montana Technological University provides a comprehensive benefits package for all eligible positions that includes health, dental and vision insurance, mandatory retirement plan with employer contribution, partial tuition waiver, and a wellness program.
Applications received by November 8, 2026 will be guaranteed full review and consideration. Applications received after that date may be considered until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Duties: * Co-coordinate and manage classroom Restoration Education Program within Clark Fork Watershed schools. * Ensure educational outreach milestones are reached for all programs. * Provide scientific support for curriculum development and data collection/management. * Assist in program development and grant proposal writing. * Communicate school needs and activities to Ripple staff. * Assist in recruitment and track volunteers to be involved with Ripple programs. * Teach lessons and lead fieldtrips. * Provide field assessments to Reclamation Evaluation Systems. * Collaborate with landowners, community members, Tribal partners, and restoration professionals to develop solutions grounded in local knowledge, ecological conditions, and long-term stewardship. * Assist with teacher professional development and lesson creation for target schools. * Ability to travel throughout Montana. * Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications: * Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field (biology, chemistry, geology, etc.) and at least 2 years related experience or Master’s degree and at least one year of related experience. * Demonstrated teaching experience with a variety of age groups and in various settings. * Knowledge of the upper Clark Fork watershed history, restoration, and stakeholders. * Knowledge of Reclamation Evaluation Systems. * Knowledge of Low-Tech Place Based Restoration infrastructure and the logistics required to lead in-person installations * Computer skills—Microsoft office * Mapping software - ArcGIS Story Maps, ArcGIS Pro
Preferred Qualifications: * Experience in scientific data management and field research methods * Experience with grant writing * Demonstrated experience with lesson plan development and providing professional development for teachers
Physical Demands: * Ability to transport, move, or position campus materials weighing up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation * Ability to occasionally work in outdoor environments and navigate varying weather conditions during campus events or orientation sessions..
.For full consideration application materials must be complete. Please include: * Cover letter addressing qualifications * Resume * Contact information for 3 professional references