This is a temporary position (9 months or less).

Employment starts 04/21/2025 through 11/11/2025.

DESCRIPTION OF JOB:

Sampling crews are responsible for conducting Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) surveys, using standardized scientific protocols, in various waters throughout Colorado. Specifically, this position will conduct standardized monitoring for zebra and quagga mussels, crayfish, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. Sampling methods include plankton tows, substrate deployment and checks, shoreline surveys, plant inventories, and crayfish trapping. Water quality monitoring will also be conducted. Detailed record keeping and the ability to follow strict field protocols are required.

Applicant must be able to work both independently and as part of a team, to survey select lakes, reservoirs, streams, and rivers with respect to invasive species. This position will require traveling Monday through Thursday weekly with significant overnight camping. Candidates must be able to work in extreme weather conditions, including working off boats and must be comfortable in backcountry settings. Candidates must have their own reliable camping equipment although some nights will be spent in motels.

Daily hours will vary based on the survey location but work hours will be limited to 40 per week.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Perform leadership related duties to accomplish broad statewide objectives for lakes and reservoir invasive species sampling and monitoring. Crew leads are responsible for the following tasks in addition to crew member duties:

• Ensure the safety of all crew members during all operations. Report safety violations and incident reports.
• Establish the schedule for each week to meet state sampling requirements for high, medium, and low risk lakes and reservoirs as dictated by the State of Colorado ANS Sampling and Monitoring Manual (2022).
• Ensure the crew members follow the State of Colorado ANS Sampling and Monitoring Manual (2022) procedures.
• Ensure that the crew has all necessary working equipment for the week’s operations. Maintain equipment in good working order and report any problems or issues. Contact key reservoir owners or managers at least one full week in advance of sampling taking place.
• Ensure that all staff members are respectful and that conflict management occurs when it arises.
• Responsible for the quality of the crew’s data and sample collection procedures and processes.
• Responsible for ensuring that decontamination procedures are followed.
• Responsible for decision making in the field to accomplish assigned duties while maintaining safety.
• Technical report writing.
• Arc Field Maps data collection and data processing.
• GIS map production and analysis.
• Verify accuracy of data in the Sampling and Monitoring Data Management System (SMDMS).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Leadership experience

2. Willingness to be flexible with the weekday work schedule

3. Good driving record and ability to travel extensively with overnight stays

4. Ability to drive long hours and remain alert

5. Ability to work closely in small crews for long hours in a professional manner

6. Ability to swim

7. Experience with Microsoft Word applications and Google

8. Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)

9. Excellent organization skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize and multitask

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. B.S. in natural resources/botany/fisheries/wildlife or other natural resource field OR at least 1 year completed coursework toward a degree in the field

2. Experience performing data entry

3. Experience conducting biological field surveys especially with aquatics and/or water quality

4. Experience with zebra mussel, quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail, or Eurasian watermilfoil monitoring

5. Experience boating – including knowledge of boat and trailer anatomy, ability to launch and land in extreme weather, ability to trailer boats on highways and steep mountain roads

6. Experience with ArcGIS software