Lead & NON Lead Aquatic Invasive Species Monitoring Crew

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JOB DESCRIPTION:

Lead & Non-Lead:

Conduct aquatic nuisance species (ANS) surveys, using standardized scientific protocols, in various waters throughout Colorado. Specifically, this position will conduct standardized monitoring for zebra mussels, quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, and Eurasian watermilfoil including infestation mapping and population monitoring. Crews will also assist with other ANS and native species baseline mapping for aquatic plants, mollusks, crayfish, and other invertebrates. Water quality monitoring will also be conducted. Detailed record keeping and the ability to follow strict field protocols is required including with the use of state owned equipment.

Candidates must be able to work both independently and as part of a team, to survey select lakes, reservoirs, streams, and rivers. Candidates should be comfortable interacting with members of the public in a professional manner while representing the Invasive Species Program and the agency as a whole. This position will require traveling Monday through Thursday weekly with significant overnight camping. Candidates should be able to work in inclement weather conditions, including working off boats, in and around the water, and should be comfortable in backcountry settings. Candidates must have their own reliable camping equipment although some nights will be spent in motels. 

Candidates must also assist the Early Detection & Rapid Response (EDRR) Specialist and Invasive Species Program Manager with any rapid response efforts that arise as a result of the sampling and monitoring program.

Daily hours will vary, but work hours will be strictly limited to 40 per week (overtime compensation will only be granted in special circumstances).

Lead Specific Duties: 

Perform leadership duties to accomplish broad statewide objectives for invasive species sampling and monitoring. Crew leads are responsible for the following tasks in addition to crew member duties:

• Serve as the lead communicator between the EDRR Specialist, ANS Laboratory, and crew members
• Serve as the primary decision maker when working in the field with limited supervision from the EDRR Specialist
• Ensure the safety of all crew members during operations and report safety violations to the EDRR Specialist
• Ensure all crew members are respectful and conflict management occurs when needed
• Ensure crew members follow State of Colorado ANS Sampling and Monitoring Manual procedures
• Ensure decontamination procedures are followed to official state watercraft inspection and decontamination standards
• Ensure the crew has all necessary working equipment for the week’s operations, maintain equipment in good working order, and report any problems or issues directly to the EDRR Specialist
• Perform ArcGIS Field Maps data collection, processing, and quality control/assurance of said data
• Other duties may include: Map production and analysis using ArcGIS Pro and technical report writing