Overview: During summers at the Discovery Center, located in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods within 1300-lake Vilas County, Lake Technicians will assist with aquatic vegetation surveys, aquatic invasive species (AIS) monitoring and removal, and Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW surveys).

Hours: At least 40 hours/ week with usual Tuesday-Saturday work week that includes a good deal of flexibility and will include some required evenings and holidays.
Length of Service: Approximately May 23– August 19, 2022, with flexible start and end dates.
Compensation: $950 monthly stipend plus free shared onsite housing

Requirements:
• General: Excellent oral and written communication skills. Strong organizational skills. A cheerful, positive attitude. Reliability and the ability to self-motivate and work independently, as well as with a team. Ability to collect, enter, and compile accurate data in written and electronic formats. Willingness to work outside in a variety of weather conditions. CPR and First Aid certification, and WI Boater Safety Certification (if born after January 1, 1989) are a mandatory requirement for this position, and proof of current certification is required on file prior to start date. Must be comfortable in and around water, and comfortable working on boats. Valid driver’s license required.
• Education and experience: Majoring in limnology, fisheries, conservation biology, environmental education, natural resources, or a closely related field. Basic knowledge of limnological principles including aquatic invasive species, chemistry, biology, conservation, and sampling methods. Boat experience preferred (please indicate relevant experience and WI Boater Safety Certificate on application, if applicable).
• Preferred experience: Using taxonomic keys for identification, experience with plant identification (especially aquatic), experience using GPS to navigate to field sites. Training is provided for exact survey protocols.

Expectations and Opportunities:

This position is responsible for following main areas:
1. Point-intercept aquatic vegetation surveys
Assist with point-intercept surveys including plant identification, collection, and verification; recording and entering data; submitting final summary of finds.
2. Sharing your passion and knowledge of Wisconsin’s AIS and lake health challenges and successes. Conduct Clean Boats, Clean Waters boater surveys: Inform and educate boaters on how to inspect and clean boat hulls, live wells, trailers, props, and other equipment. Inform boaters about Wisconsin laws regarding invasive species. Input written survey data into Surface Water Integrated Monitoring System (SWIMS) database.
3. AIS monitoring and delivering water-related programming to members, user groups, and the community.
Assist with AIS monitoring, bio-control beetle rearing, water quality monitoring, snorkel surveys, and crayfish trapping. Identify and map areas of AIS infestations.
4. Participate as part of the dedicated Water Program Team at the Discovery Center
Work a flexible week including evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on schedule. Assist in programs, special events and fundraisers, and community outreach as needed. Communicate needs to and be willing to help other staff members as needed. Assist with storytelling initiatives for the organization, through social media, photos, and presentations.

We are happy to accommodate and work out details for school internship credit.

You will gain experience in: Aquatic plant surveys, report writing, community and volunteer engagement, AIS monitoring and management, data entry, teaching and program delivery, motorized and non-motorized boat operation, and volunteer supervision and coordination.

To apply:
Send a letter of interest, résumé, and three references by  March 31, 2022 online to fill out the application form and upload documents: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/dfe82de93bca4e9c8a28ad437bb0f293

Be sure to indicate relevant classroom, boating, and life experience in your application.