Position Description

Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL PRISM), Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Technicians will assist in fieldwork, outreach, and education related to high-priority and emerging AIS including hydrilla, water chestnut, starry stonewort, fanwort, parrotfeather, and more. AIS Technicians will primarily participate in aquatic plant surveys around the Finger Lakes region. Techs will also work with managers to physically remove high-priority species such as water chestnut. Gain valuable experience, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to regional conservation efforts through seasonal work.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform aquatic surveys and management efforts to address AIS regionally
• Use motorboats, canoes, and kayaks to navigate waterways (lakes, rivers, canals)
• Use watercraft, waders, and other tools to physically remove invasive plants
• Collect and submit accurate field data following established protocols
• Help lead or monitor work groups consisting of volunteers covering a wide geographic area
• Work with government agencies and other organizations to complete collaborative projects
• Work under minimal supervision
• Drive and assist with campus-owned vehicles with trailers attached
• Attend training conducted by the Finger Lakes Institute and Finger Lakes PRISM staff

OTHER INFORMATION

This is a seasonal (summer- May 18 to August 21 with options through October 30, 2026), non-benefits-eligible position. The position is based out of 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. Access to reliable transportation to and from FLI is required. Employee will be reimbursed at the federally approved rate for work-related travel beyond normal commutes when using personal vehicle. Applicant must pass motor vehicle check. This position description is not all-inclusive as other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned. Pay range is $20- $21 /hr.

About HWS

A liberal arts and sciences institution, Hobart and William Smith is known for consistent success in preparing students for meaningful lives and fulfilling careers through an outcomes-based focus on their futures. Our nationally ranked faculty are accessible teachers and scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. World challenges are studied in the classroom where critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills are honed. In the field, knowledge turns into discovery. In office hours, plans are carefully crafted to tie interests and talents to an academic path that motivates beyond graduation.

Our location in the heart of the Finger Lakes allows faculty, staff and students to live and work collaboratively on the banks of a resource-rich lake. Student-athletes play for 30 varsity teams boasting 24 national titles, including the 2023 and 2024 NCAA DIII Men’s Ice Hockey Championships. With three graduate programs, students can build on their undergraduate degree with a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership, Master of Arts in Teaching, or a Master of Science in Management. Together, the experiences and mentorship at HWS prepare students to lead lives of consequence.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of aquatic invasive species and regional ecosystems
• Experience with plant identification preferred
• Experience in or ability to perform environmental field work
• Experience or comfort in operating various types of equipment including motor and hand-powered watercraft, chest waders, tablets, GPS units (NYS Boating Safety Certificate a plus)
• Experience or ability to work in wet, muddy conditions
• Experience working in a team environment
• Ability to lift 35 pounds
• Valid driver’s license and motor vehicle check required; must have reliable transportation to work sites and meeting locations

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Colleges are an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination and harassment in their programs and activities against employees or applicants based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, caregiver status, military status, including past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, social class, or any other category or characteristic protected by applicable law.