Seasonal AIS Educator/Boat Washer Position Description 

Organization Background:

The Schoolcraft Conservation District (SCD) is a local unit of government, IRS 170(c)(1), and has been serving Schoolcraft County through stewardship of natural resources for over 50 years. Historically, the District is funded by several sources - state, federal, and county grants, seedling sales, and generous donations. Schoolcraft County residents provide funding through their support of millage specific to the District.

Position Objective: 

Under the guidance of SCD staff, this employee will act as support for the Michigan Invasive Species Grant (MISG) Boat Decontamination project with the goal of minimizing/preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). This employee will participate in a range of activities, including decontaminating boats at assigned boat launches/landings throughout Schoolcraft and Delta Counties, conducting interviews with boaters and recording relevant data, educating the public on AIS, and caring for decontamination equipment. Strong interpersonal skills, a willingness to work outdoors in a variety of conditions, confidence working on or around water, and an ability to work alongside a field crew are required. A basic knowledge of natural resources and invasive species is preferred.

This is a temporary position that will run from May to September 2025 (flexible).

Relationships: 

The Seasonal AIS Educator/Boat Washer reports directly to the AIS Coordinator. Day-to-day activities will be performed alongside a team of other seasonal employees with guidance from SCD staff.

Essential Functions: 

90% 

• Travels daily to boat launches throughout Schoolcraft and Delta Counties
• Operates and maintains boat washing equipment 
• Inspects and washes boats as they enter and exit water bodies at assigned boat launch sites
• Tracks interactions with boaters and the general public to gather information that will work toward evaluating program effectiveness
• Provides interactive AIS education at boat launches and elsewhere as needed
• Responsible for various administrative tasks such as vehicle logs, equipment upkeep, maintaining a daily work log, and other similar duties
• Serves as a public information liaison for the Schoolcraft Conservation District; provides information, responds to inquiries, and gathers public feedback
• Assists with installation/updating of signage at public access sites

10% 

• Helps with field work related to other ongoing grant programs as needed
• Helps with administrative tasks as needed
• Other duties as assigned by AIS Coordinator and/or District Manager

Educational Qualifications of the Ideal Candidate: 

High school diploma or GED preferred. A willingness to learn is necessary.  

Preferred Experience: 

• Computer software: Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite
• Has general knowledge of natural resources, aquatic invasive species, and wildlife and ecology principles and policies.  

Abilities: 

• Excellent social and interpersonal skills; must be comfortable approaching members of the public
• Must be able to work most weekends
• Team player and self-motivated to work independently as needed
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions and terrains, including but not limited to extreme conditions such as heat, cold, or rain
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time  
• Excellent oral, telephonic and written communication skills in the English language 
• Computer and office equipment skills preferred

WAGE: $15 an hour, up to 40 hours/week