Description

Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff, Lead Watercraft Inspection Stewards, will be responsible for supervising the Finger Lakes Institute’s Watercraft Inspection Stewards. Stewards offer watercraft and trailer inspections as well as educational materials at public boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region. Stewards 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 help disseminate critical conservation messaging and initiatives to the public. Lead stewards help with program coordination tasks such as staff scheduling and data quality assurance. Lead stewards will help seasonal preparation, trainings, and post-season reporting. Gain valuable leadership experience, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to regional conservation efforts through seasonal work.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Scheduling Watercraft Steward shifts
• Providing on-call assistance to Watercraft Stewards during their shifts through phone calls and in person
• Ensuring Watercraft Stewards have the proper supplies
• Ensure that Watercraft Stewards enter their field data correctly and in a timely manner
• Regularly check-in on Watercraft Stewards while on-duty at boat launches.
• Provide additional assistance and training to Watercraft Stewards as needed
• Perform watercraft inspections when extra help is needed
• Participate in FLI-hosted service events such as invasive species pulls, beach cleanups, etc
• Assist in planning and attend multi-day training led by Finger Lakes PRISM and FLI staff
• Attend periodic staff meetings and training updates

OTHER INFORMATION

This is a seasonal (summer- April 6 to October 30, 2026), 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: $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

• 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
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required; must be able to pass a driving background check
• Physically able to work outdoors for extended periods
• Must be available weekends and holidays

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.