Watercraft Inspection Steward/Environmental Educator

WNY PRISM is hiring Watercraft Inspection Stewards/Environmental Educators to prevent aquatic invasive species spread while educating the public. This field position involves conducting inspections at boat launches, collecting data, and engaging in public outreach. Stewards will work outdoors, attend mandatory training, and may need to travel occasionally. The role offers experience in invasive species management and environmental protection.
About WNY PRISM

The Western New York Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (WNY PRISM) is one of eight regional partnerships within New York State created to address the threat of invasive species and prevent or minimize the harm they cause to the environment, economy and human health. This is accomplished through use of a coordinated partnership network for which we provide leadership, technical assistance and collaboration opportunities. Our goal is to improve, restore and protect local aquatic and terrestrial resources by improving the effectiveness of invasive species management efforts, engaging the public in management actions and increasing awareness of invasive species issues throughout the 8-county region. For more information about WNY PRISM and our programming, please visit www.wnyprism.org.

WNY PRISM is a sponsored program of the Research Foundation for SUNY Buffalo State University and is hosted by the Great Lakes Center. Funding for WNY PRISM is provided by the Environmental Protection Fund through a contract with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Position Description

The WNY PRISM Watercraft Inspection Steward Program is designed to prevent the transport, spread and establishment of aquatic invasive species while increasing public awareness of this threat. WNY PRISM Watercraft Inspection Steward/Environmental Educators (Stewards) are an essential component of this program and will represent WNY PRISM while working toward improving environmental health. Stewards will interact daily with the public at boat launches performing boat inspections to remove visible aquatic plants and animals from all types of watercraft and will be responsible for public education and distribution of educational materials. Removal of aquatic plants and animals will help to prevent the transport and spread of aquatic invasive species. Stewards will also have the opportunity to assist with invasive species survey and removal projects, such as early detection/rapid response and control efforts, to monitor and reduce established populations of both aquatic and terrestrial invasive species. This is a field position and candidates should expect to spend the majority of their time outdoors.

Stewards will be assigned to a single, primary launch; however, coverage needs may require occasional travel to other launches. Stewards are required to attend a mandatory, two-day training prior to beginning work at their assigned launches.

WNY PRISM is a supportive work environment that will provide the opportunity for Stewards to learn and gain valuable experience in the fields of invasive species management, environmental protection and public outreach. Stewards will meet and work with local environmental professionals and improve their skills and understanding of invasive species ecology, invasive species management practices, data collection and public outreach.

Primary Responsibilities (85-90%)
• Conduct voluntary watercraft inspections at assigned boat launches.
• Collect survey data using provided data collection tools.
• Ensure data collected is complete, accurate and uploaded as scheduled.
• Conduct public outreach and distribute educational materials.
• Communicate effectively with supervisor.
• Maintain supplies and equipment.

Additional Responsibilities (10-15%)
• Represent WNY PRISM at community events such as county fairs and festivals.
• Assist with invasive species removal activities.
• Assist with invasive species surveys and monitoring.