Aquatic Invasive Species Watercraft Stewards
To apply, you must copy the link below and apply through the Cornell University Career Page:
The Capital Region Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (CR-PRISM), hosted by the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County (CCE Saratoga), is seeking motivated and qualified seasonal Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Watercraft Inspection Stewards to help protect our waters by joining our team. Watercraft Stewards provide public education and outreach at assigned boat launches regarding statewide Clean, Drain, Dry practices in order to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Stewards inspect and remove vegetation from watercraft, while collecting research data daily from interactions with the public using the Survey123 Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Application (WISPA).
Watercraft Stewards work independently at designated boat launch locations throughout the Capital Region PRISM (including Albany, Columbia, Greene, Herkimer, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, and Washington counties, varying by year), with some launches located within or in close proximity to portions of the Southern Adirondacks and Northern Catskills. Stewards work on a full-time, seasonal (temporary) basis from May through September. Work schedules are typically Thursday-Monday, including weekends and holidays, from 7:00 am – 3:30 pm with a 30-minute meal period, though schedules may also vary depending on program needs. The Watercraft Steward program runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with several days of required programmatic training on May 14, 15, 18, and 19, 2026.
Required Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- At least 18 years of age.
- Experience, knowledge, coursework or an interest in a career in a natural resources or related fields.
- Ability to work independently at program boat launch sites.
- Ability to work a full-time schedule, Thursday through Monday, including weekends and holidays.
- Ability to meet acceptable background check requirements.
- Ability to meet occasional travel requirements associated with this position. A valid NYS driver's license with the ability to drive and driving record acceptable for agency insurance coverage are required.
- Program Skills – Ability to effectively deliver related AIS programs. Ability demonstrate and teach AIS prevention techniques. Serve as an effective subject matter resource.
- Communication Skills: Ability to frequently and effectively communicate with recreational boaters, anglers, other park patrons, employees, and others.
- Computer Skills: MS Office Suite and using a tablet for Survey123 WIPSA data collection.
- Work Environment – In addition to the Working Conditions, the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. This position works constantly at outdoor boat launch sites and in weather conditions including exposure to the sun, extreme heat, wind, water, precipitation, and cold. This position frequently lifts, moves or transports program supplies and materials. This position frequently stands and walks and frequently positions self (e.g. pulling, bending, reaching, touching, kneeling, using hands to feel/reach) while inspecting watercraft and/or demonstrating proper AIS preventative watercraft cleaning and launching techniques. This position requires the ability to safely operate small manually operated watercraft (e.g. kayak, canoe, etc.). This position frequently performs and demonstrates AIS surveying and removal techniques (e.g. rake toss, etc.).
Preferred Qualifications:
- College degree or coursework in natural resources or related fields.
Position Details
This is a temporary, full-time (40 hours/week), nonexempt position. Compensation paid at the rate of $19.65 per hour.
Applicants should apply as soon as possible or by March 20th, 2026; however, this posting will remain open until positions are filled. Position closing dates may change based on Association needs. To apply and for further details, visit:
Cornell Cooperative Extension is a collaboration among Cornell University, the United States Department of Agriculture, the State of New York, and the residents of New York State. Per NYS Law, county and regional extension service associations are subordinate governmental agencies. This employment opportunity is with the entities listed and not with Cornell University. Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for providing equal program and employment opportunities in accordance with applicable laws.
Job Type: Full-time; Temporary
Salary: $19.65/hour
Expected Hours: 40/week
Schedule:
- Thursday to Monday
- 7:00 am – 3:30 pm w/ 30-minute unpaid meal period
- Weekends & Holidays Required
Work Location: In person