The BEAT News – February 18, 2016

By Dan Adams of The Boston Globe
February 3, 2016

Joining opponents of a natural gas pipeline under construction in West Roxbury, Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh said Wednesday he will appeal a decision by federal regulators that allowed the controversial project to continue over the objections of nearby residents.

A subsidiary of Houston-based Spectra Energy Partners LP began construction last year on the so-called West Roxbury Lateral pipeline, a five-mile spur of a larger, $1 billion project to increase the capacity of New England’s largest natural gas pipeline.

Last week, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or FERC, rejected a raft of complaints from neighbors and other pipeline opponents who say the project is environmentally irresponsible and passes dangerously close to a quarry in West Roxbury whose operators use dynamite to excavate stone.

The FERC’s decision to deny the “request for rehearing” filed by opponents meant an appeal in federal court was the only remaining option to challenge the project. Walsh’s office said it would file such an appeal by the end of March.

“Mayor Walsh continues to be committed to fighting for the best interests and safety of the residents of West Roxbury,” a spokeswoman said in a statement. “Today the City of Boston, along with our partners at the federal, state and local level, made the decision to appeal the denial of the Request for a Rehearing in federal court.”

Officials said the appeal would question the siting of the pipeline near the quarry and a residential neighborhood.

Of the decision to appeal, the federal commission said: “As you know, FERC issued last week its Order on Rehearing on the Algonquin AIM case that addressed concerns raised by the parties in the case. The intervenors or parties may appeal the Commission’s order in a federal court of appeals in the circuit of their choosing. We have no further comment.”

Spectra did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The pipeline, approved last March, will deliver natural gas to National Grid, Eversource, and other energy distributors. The companies have said the pipeline is needed to meet demand.

The new line will run beneath Centre, Grove, and Washington streets in West Roxbury as well as through Dedham and Westwood. Construction on the Dedham segments began last year, as did work on a metering and regulation station near the quarry. Construction on the West Roxbury portion of the pipeline itself won’t resume until mid-April because of a ban on digging up Boston roads during winter.

Jobs

Commissioner & Associate(s) – Egremont Conservation Commission

Egremont Conservation Commission is seeking an additional Commissioner to join the Commission (about 2-4 hours per week, need not be an Egremont resident), and one or more Associates (non-voting position, flexible, could be suitable for high school student or recent graduate).  Both positions offer opportunities to learn more about our local wetlands and ecosystems, to provide a needed public service, and/or to build your resume. Some training may be available.

For more information please email concom@egremont-ma.gov.

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Various Positions – Northeast Biodiesel

10 – 9 – 8 – 7 – 6 – 5 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1…LAUNCH! Northeast Biodiesel is counting down…
Looking for great workers to run the plant!

Northeast Biodiesel is looking for an amazing team to oversee the production of biodiesel from recycled waste oil around the clock in a rotating schedule of 8 hour production shifts.  We need to find 5 Production Operators, 5 Production Team Leads, and 1 Mechanic / Team Lead; all positions will require some pre-launch safety training and the plant should be up and running in March.

The job descriptions are linked here, along with directions to submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@cooppower.coop

Biodiesel Production Operator

Biodiesel Production Team Lead

Biodiesel Plant Mechanic / Team Lead

We’ll be sending information soon about the official launch date and ribbon-cutting events very shortly.

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Office Manager, Part-time –
Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC)

Berkshire Natural Resources Council, a private, non-profit land trust based in Pittsfield, MA, seeks an energetic and organized person to become its Office Manager.  The Office Manager supports BNRC’s programming as it pursues an ambitious conservation vision for the Berkshires.

Duties of the position include general clerical work and maintenance of accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, financial statements, and insurance policies.  Proficiency in Quickbooks required; familiarity with real estate transactions is a plus.  20 hours per week with some flexibility; competitive salary.  Send resume to Sally Cornwell, BNRC, 20 Bank Row, Pittsfield, MA 01201 or scornwell@bnrc.net.  No phone calls, please.

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2016 Berkshire Land Conservation Summer Internships –
Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC)

Berkshire Natural Resources Council (www.bnrc.net), a private, non-profit land trust based in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is offering its 2016 Rice Fellowship to individuals exploring a career in the environmental field.

The internship dates are May 16 to September 2, with flexibility on both ends.

The 40-hour/week fellowship provides a stipend and lodging in a rustic cabin on Onota Lake in Pittsfield.  There is a mix of approximately 90/10 field/office work. Fellows will gain valuable experience in resource management at a successful environmental organization while performing meaningful work in the Berkshires.  BNRC is a small organization (staff of seven) unburdened by administrative formality.  Rice Fellows enjoy an unusual level of independence compared with many internships; a large amount of self-motivation is required.

Responsibilities

1. Public outreach (e.g., leading hikes and coordinating events)
2. Land management
3. Trail maintenance and construction
4. Conservation restriction stewardship
5. Invasive plant control
6. Boundary work
7. Other land management tasks as required

Requirements

1. Ability to work unsupervised
2. Comfort with being alone in the woods
3. Ability to carry a 30 pound pack for 10 miles over rough terrain
4. Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
5. Solid communication skills
6. Personal transportation required

Fellows will gain:

1. Trail-building skills
2. Leadership skills
3. Understanding of conservation restrictions
4. Orienteering and boundary maintenance skills
5. Understanding of ecological restoration theory and practice
6. Basic understanding of land management techniques and challenges for land conservation

Interviews will begin on February 16, 2016.  Please feel free to contact with questions or for more information.  Applicants should email cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three references to:

Michael Leavitt, mleavitt@bnrc.net, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, 20 Bank Row, Pittsfield, MA 01201. (413) 499-0596

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 2016 Berkshire Trail Crew –
Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC)

Berkshire Natural Resources Council (www.bnrc.net), a private, non-profit land trust based in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is hiring 2 trail crew members for the 2016 season.

The season runs from May 31 to September 2 with some flexibility on both ends.

BNRC maintains more than 50 miles of trail, with more to be built in 2016.  Trail crew members will work with the Trails and Outreach Coordinator to maintain existing trails and construct new ones.  The crew will work with and alongside youth and professional trail crews.  Some backcountry camping may be required.  Members must have a high level of self-motivation, as the crew will often work without supervision.  An hourly wage and free housing in a rustic cabin on Onota Lake in Pittsfield is provided.  A head trail crew position is available for the right applicant.

Responsibilities

1. Trail maintenance and construction
2. Work with youth and professional trail crews
3. Public outreach (e.g., leading hikes, communicating with hikers, etc.)
4. Other stewardship/management tasks as needed

Requirements

1. Experience with hand tools required
2. Trail crew experience preferred
3. Ability to work unsupervised
4. Comfort with being alone in the woods
5. Ability to carry a 50-pound pack for 5 miles over rough terrain
6. Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
7. Experience working with youth preferred
8. Personal transportation required

Head Trail Crew Position Requirements

1. Trail Crew experience required
2. Leadership experience preferred

Interviews will begin on February 16, 2015.  Please feel free to contact with questions or for more information.  Applicants should email cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three references to:

Michael Leavitt, mleavitt@bnrc.net, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, 20 Bank Row, Pittsfield, MA 01201. (413) 499-0596

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Executive and HR Assistant – Center for EcoTechnology (CET)

For more than 35 years, the Center for EcoTechnology has helped people and businesses in Massachusetts save energy and reduce waste. If you have a passion for helping to transforming the way we live and work for a better community, economy and environment, then CET is the place for you. The Executive Assistant provides timely, helpful, creative and accurate support to the Office of the President and the Human Resources department to further this mission.

• The Executive Assistant handles day-to-day logistics such as scheduling, email correspondence, agendas, Board minutes and travel preparations.
• The Executive Assistant tracks programs and maintains data for the human resources department and assists with recruiting and onboarding initiatives.
• The Executive Assistant creates a wide range of written materials including blog posts, newsletters, Board resolutions, confidential correspondence, and speeches.
• The Executive Assistant plans and coordinates events held at CET including arranging for speakers, securing catering, and controlling the budget.
• The Executive Assistant analyzes budget and mission impact data and compiles complex information into database and spreadsheet files.

We are looking for someone with a strong commitment to the non-profit community mission of CET. To be successful in this job, you must be outgoing, friendly, and helpful, approaching others with warmth and tact. We need someone who reacts calmly under pressure and treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.

The Executive Assistant is effectively the “right-hand-person” to our President and a key support to the Human Resources department.  The ability to manage multiple projects, summarize complex information, strategize the delivery and follow-up of that information, and think proactively are critical to success in this role.  Any fundraising/endowment experience (although not required) would be a great plus.

In 2013, we helped 26,000 people save $33 million and reduce the impact on the environment equal to taking 29,000 cars off the road and 12,000 homes off the grid for a year! We provide practical solutions that save energy, materials and money and have a positive impact on our environment and community. In the past 6 months, we have added more than 30 people to our dedicated team and are still looking for more.

This is a full-time hourly position with benefits located in our Northampton office. To qualify, you must have minimum 2 years’ experience working in an administrative office environment with similar responsibilities. You should have strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel and PowerPoint as well as database software. You must have excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication skills needed. You should be able to succeed at the above while having fun and being fun to work with.
Send cover letter and resume via email to: hr.cs.ea16@cetonline.org. You may include military service assignments and any verified work performed on a volunteer basis. CET is an equal opportunity employer.

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Program Operations Manager, Green Business Services
Center for EcoTechnology (CET)

Are you a successful manager of people and programs? Do you excel at leading a team to fulfill the changing needs of multiple clients in a fast-paced environment? Have you been working in the environmental field or are you looking for a more meaningful way to use your skills?

CET is seeking a key member of our management team to oversee our work for government, utility and other clients to help their business customers reduce costs and improve environmental performance. This hands-on position will be responsible for managing the work of administrative support and field staff, establishing effective systems for program delivery, providing account management services to high value customers, and monitoring and reporting on progress towards project goals and budgets.

• Manages a variety of program deliverables such as customer service, inside sales, events, websites and other programmatic services.
• Manages clients, identifying opportunities and developing partnerships to further the relationships.
• Develops employees through motivation, counseling, skills development and technical knowledge development.
• Acts as a resource in resolving customer issues brought to the department by using process knowledge and strong communication skills.
• Communicates program outcomes and status in a clear, effective and timely manner to necessary parties in the business unit and to clients.
• Produces material for newsletters, websites, and other outreach and education practices to fulfill program objectives.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience Requirements:

We are looking for someone with a strong commitment to the non-profit community mission of CET. To qualify, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences or related field or equivalent experience. You should have a minimum 3 years managing a team of people responsible for multifaceted programs or projects with numerous deliverable and deadlines. Experience in the field of commercial waste or recycling and familiarity with waste management programs desirable.

For nearly 40 years, the non-profit Center for EcoTechnology has helped people and businesses save energy and reduce waste. We provide practical solutions that save energy, materials and money and have a positive impact on our environment and community. CET is proud to be:

• Passionate: We are passionate about our environmental mission. We work hard and care about our customers, coworkers and community.
• Professional: We are experienced, objective and base our work on science. We work with integrity and are friendly and approachable to all.
• Practical: We offer innovative, practical and cost-effective solutions. We do as we say and get results.

For a chance to join our team, please submit your resume and cover letter to Human Resources at hr.gbs.pom16@cetonline.org. CET is an equal opportunity employer.

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EcoFellow 2016-2017
Center for EcoTechnology (CET)

The Center for EcoTechnology helps people and businesses in Massachusetts save energy and reduce waste. We make green make sense. For 40 years, we’ve offered proven advice and resources to save you money, make you more comfortable at home, and help your business perform better. Working with partners throughout the region, we’re helping transform the way we live and work for a better community, economy, and environment – now and for the future. We provide practical solutions that save energy, materials and money and have a positive impact on our environment and community. We serve residents, business and communities in the areas of energy efficiency and waste reduction and through our retail store, EcoBuilding Bargains.

The Center for EcoTechnology is seeking five qualified college graduate candidates for a 10-month paid fellowship position to work with our staff to carry out a range of activities related to climate action initiatives and educational programming in western Massachusetts. Activities will support the CET’s initiatives to assist residents, students, institutions and businesses across the region in ongoing programs in energy efficiency, home energy services, renewable energy, and waste reduction through recycling, reuse and home composting. The Fellowship offers a full orientation and week-long training by CET professionals in subjects related to above programs, as well as professional development exploring a variety of environmental topics throughout the fellowship. Fellows will be based in CET’s Northampton office, with travel expected between CET locations and into local communities.

EcoFellowship Qualifications:

• We are looking for creative and energetic college graduates (bachelor degree required) with an interest in energy efficiency, renewable energy technologies, climate change, recycling and resource conservation. Previous experience through volunteering, internships and/or professional work is required.
• Commitment to the entire Fellowship program, from August 8, 2016 to June 30, 2017, is required.
• Fellows work a flexible schedule (40 hrs/week) that requires some evening and weekend hours as needed.
• Computer skills required, experience in creative uses of social media and/or graphic design preferred.
• Driver’s license and reliable, insured transportation is required.
• Ability to lift and move 50# will be required as necessary for certain placements.
• Background checks and drug testing will be required for all positions.
• CET is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all to apply.

EcoFellowship Salary and Benefits:

• Salary: Pays $10/hr for 40 hrs/week, with an additional $2,000 bonus at the completion of the program. Hourly rate increases to $11/hr Jan 1, 2017.
• Benefits: Health Insurance; paid sick, holiday and vacation; supplies and mileage reimbursement
• Professional Development: Week-long training; monthly professional trainings throughout experience

Hiring Process:

Application Process:  Rolling applications are accepted until March 13

Interview Process: 

• Initial interviews are ongoing until March 18, either in-person or by phone
• 2nd interviews will be scheduled for late March/early April, in-person required

Hiring Process:  Position placements will be offered by mid-April

EcoFellowship Placement:  August 8, 2016 to June 30, 2017

Send Resume and Cover Letter to:hr.out.ef16@cetonline.org

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Greenagers: Teacher for After-School Program

Greenagers is now hiring for a part-time (approx. 15hrs/wk beginning in late Feb.) teaching position for the after-school program, “Crafting the Landscape”. This program focuses on teaching environmental literacy and stewardship to middle school students through hands-on projects and excursions as well as with the video game MineCraft.edu

The program runs Monday through Thursday afternoons from 3:00 -5:00 pm in Great Barrington and Sheffield during the school year.  Summer programs run 4 days/wk, 6hrs/day for 5 weeks.

Requirements: A four-year degree in environmental or related studies and/or relevant field and teaching experience required.  Experience with or willingness to learn MineCraft also required.  Candidates must be able to work well in a team teaching environment with a broad range of academic and emotional abilities. Applicant must have reliable transportation, clean driving record and submit to a CORI background test.

This program is a collaboration between Greenagers and the Berkshire Coop Market.

How to apply: Cover letter and resume may be sent to Will Conklin:  director@greenagers.org.

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