Elissa Lind
Grand Junction,CO
Summary
Field experienced conservation professional with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and hands-on experience working in remote natural settings. Brings a background of multi-day backcountry river expeditions and physically demanding outdoor work under variable conditions. Holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and an Associate’s degree in Communications, providing a solid foundation in scientific thinking and motivated by a deep respect for natural systems.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Licensed Massage Therapist
Meraki Massage
10.2022 - Current
- Independently managed scheduling, travel logistics, and client communications.
- Maintained detailed session notes and records, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and confidentiality
- Communicated clearly with a diverse client base
- Balanced variable hours and workloads, including evenings and weekends.
Horticultural Specialist
Jene's Tropicals
06.2025 - 11.2025
- Monitored plant health, identifying pests and diseases for timely intervention.
- Assisted customers with identification and selection of native plants and pollinator-supporting species, explaining habitat requirements and ecological benefits
- Maintained nursery stock through weeding, planting, watering, and monitoring plant health under variable weather conditions
- Supported plant deliveries and on-site installations, including loading/unloading trucks, transporting materials, and working efficiently in outdoor environments
- Applied strong attention to detail when organizing plant inventory and preparing orders for delivery
- Worked collaboratively with a small team to complete daily tasks safely and efficiently
- Demonstrated physical endurance through manual labor, lifting, and prolonged outdoor work
Backcountry River Guide (Multi-Day Expeditions)
Centennial Canoe Outfitters
04.2023 - 08.2024
- Led 3–6 day backcountry canoe expeditions in remote river corridors including Labyrinth Canyon (Green River), Gunnison River, and Colorado River.
- Planned and executed multi-day field logistics, including food planning, gear packing, water management, campsite selection, and daily route planning.
- Operated safely in desolate environments and variable weather conditions, adapting plans in response to wind, storms, high water, and extreme temperatures.
- Implemented Leave No Trace principles rigorously, including human waste management, campsite impact minimization, and stewardship education for participants.
- Provided on-site emergency response during boat flips, inclement weather, and other high-stress situations, ensuring participant safety and morale.
- Maintained group well-being through cooking, camp management, risk assessment, and clear communication.
- Demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and sound judgment while responsible for people, equipment, and environmental protection in remote settings.
Education
No Degree - Massage Therapy
IntelliTec College
CO09-2022
Bachelor of Science - Health Sciences
Montana State University-Northern
Havre, MT12-2021
Associate of Arts - Communications
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs05-2018
Skills
- Conduct backcountry fieldwork in remote environments
Experienced working for multiple days in desolate areas, hiking and camping in variable terrain and weather while remaining effective, organized, and safety-focused - Collect accurate field data while following established protocols
Able to gather, document, and manage field observations carefully and consistently, with strong attention to detail and respect for standardized procedures - Apply Leave No Trace principles and environmental stewardship practices
Proven commitment to minimizing environmental impact, managing human waste, and modeling responsible stewardship in sensitive ecosystems
- Plan and manage field logistics efficiently
Skilled at preparing gear, coordinating travel, organizing supplies, and managing time and responsibilities during multi-day field efforts - Communicate clearly and collaborate with diverse teams and the public
Comfortable working closely with small teams, coordinating with volunteers or participants, and providing clear guidance in field and public-facing settings - Maintain safety and sound judgment in challenging field conditions
Able to assess risk, respond calmly to emergencies, and make thoughtful decisions during adverse weather, remote travel, or high-stress situations
Timeline
Horticultural Specialist
Jene's Tropicals
06.2025 - 11.2025
Backcountry River Guide (Multi-Day Expeditions)
Centennial Canoe Outfitters
04.2023 - 08.2024
Licensed Massage Therapist
Meraki Massage
10.2022 - Current
No Degree - Massage Therapy
IntelliTec College
Bachelor of Science - Health Sciences
Montana State University-Northern
Associate of Arts - Communications
Western Wyoming Community College