Watercraft Inspection Steward

Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff, Watercraft Stewards will offer watercraft and trailer inspections as well as educational materials
at public boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region. Stewards will collect data on inspections, launch users, and invasive species findings. Watercraft inspections entail visual examination and removal of plants or other organic material from boats and trailers and identifying aquatic invasive species. Stewards will help disseminate critical conservation messaging and initiatives to the public. Qualified candidates will be considered for watercraft decontamination or lead steward duties. Decontamination stewards conduct similar job duties as regular stewards and conduct additional boat decontaminations when necessary and appropriate. Lead stewards conduct similar job duties as regular stewards and help with program coordination tasks such as staff scheduling and data quality assurance. Decontamination and lead steward positions are limited and offer increased compensation to reflect added responsibilities and job duties. Locations for these positions include but are not limited to public boat launches on Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, and Otisco Lakes; in addition to parts of the Erie Canal and Lake Ontario in Rochester, NY. Gain valuable experience, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to regional conservation efforts through seasonal work.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend multi-day training led by Finger Lakes PRISM and FLI staff

• Conduct watercraft inspections and associated data collection

• Educate boaters on invasive species and prevention methods

• Participate in outreach events and invasive species removal efforts

• Attend periodic staff meetings and training updates

OTHER INFORMATION: This is a seasonal (summer), non-benefits-eligible position. The position is based at boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region and requires roughly twice monthly travel to Hobart and William Smith Colleges. The Finger Lakes PRISM is one of eight PRISMs supported via funding from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund as administered by NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation. Willingness and ability to travel and to work nights and weekends on occasion. Access to reliable transportation is required. Employees will be reimbursed at the federally approved rate for work-related travel when using personal vehicle beyond their commute. This position description is not all-inclusive as other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned. Pay range is $17 - $20 per hour.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Background in environmental science, ecology, or related fields preferred

• Knowledge of aquatic invasive species and regional ecosystems preferred

• Strong communication skills for public engagement

• Ability to work independently and follow data collection protocols

• Reliable transportation required (mileage reimbursement info not specified)

• Physically able to work outdoors for extended periods

• Must be available weekends and holidays

Hobart and William Smith is a liberal arts and sciences institution known for consistent success in preparing students for meaningful lives and fulfilling careers through an outcomes-based focus on their futures. Through a relationship-rich educational environment, students have exceptional academic and co-curricular opportunities in career services, community service, global education and athletics. Located in Geneva, N.Y., a small, diverse city in the Finger Lakes Region of New York, HWS has an enrollment of approximately 1,800 students, and offers undergraduate, pre-professional and graduate programs.