DESCRIPTION

This position is responsible for engaging in activities to help stop the spread of invasive species in our Northwoods woods and water. As a Conservation Technician work includes aquatic invasive species (AIS) surveys and removal, attending community events to educate about invasive species and healthy lake practices, assist with shoreline restoration and planting efforts, and conduct CBCW surveys.

EXPECTATIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES

• Invasive Species Monitoring and Management — Assist with AIS monitoring, purple loosestrife bio-control, snorkel, and free-dive to remove AIS. Identify and map areas of AIS infestations. Enter data and maintain record of GPS coordinates.
• Ecological Restoration — Assist with planting and seeding of native restoration projects and shoreline restorations.
• Inspect Boats, Decontaminate Boats, and Conduct Trainings — Conduct Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) boater surveys including boat inspections and enter data into SWIMS. Operate decontamination unit to clean watercraft and remove aquatic invasive species.
• Educational Programming and Community Outreach — Setup and operate the AIS booth at community events while conducting outreach and educating the public on AIS and our local efforts on managing our lakes and rivers. Attending lake association events and assist with educational workshops teaching participants about AIS and healthy lakes practices.
• Individual Development Opportunity — Identify, develop, and execute a personal project that benefits personal development and the organization’s mission.
• Contribute to the Organization’s Mission — Assist in programs, special events and fundraisers, and community outreach as needed. Communicate needs to and be willing to help other team members as

WHAT YOU BRING

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, a positive attitude, and dependable.
• Understanding of the importance of data collection and the ability to record and enter data.
• Passion for working outdoors with experience and appreciation for the conditions field work presents.
• Excellent swimming skills, comfortable in and around water, snorkeling, free-diving, and experience working on many types of boats including pontoons, johns, kayaks and canoes. (Scuba certification a plus).
• Working towards a B.S in limnology, fisheries, conservation biology, environmental education, natural resources, or a closely related field.
• At least some classwork or field experience implementing limnological principles including aquatic invasive species, biology, conservation, or sampling methods.
• Strong attention to detail with a sense of personal ownership and responsibility for your work.
• Collaborative with supervisors and a high degree of integrity and trustworthiness.
• CPR and First Aid certification, and WI Boater Safety Certification (if born after January 1, 1989), or ability to obtain upon hiring.
• A valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Experience and ability to trailer boats is a plus.

THE EXPERIENCE YOU WILL GAIN

Aquatic plant surveys, shoreline restoration, community and volunteer engagement, AIS monitoring and management, snorkeling and free-diving, data entry, motorized and non-motorized boat operation.

COMPENSATION AND REQUIREMENTS

• Compensation: $1,400 monthly stipend and includes free shared onsite housing.
• Hours: Minimum 40 Hours/week with usual Tuesday-Saturday work week. Evening, weekend, and holiday work are required but the position does provide a good deal of flexibility for days off. Field work often requires longer workdays which in trade results in some 4-day work weeks, allowing ample time off for exploring the Northwoods and its abundant wilderness, serene freshwater lakes, and backcountry areas.
• Length of Service: 3-months, approximately May 19 – August 16, start and end dates may be flexible.
• Internship Opportunities: Position may be adjusted to earn school credit for internship or work-study projects. Option to discuss these opportunities during the interview process.