 |
 |
From: Latimore, Jo <[log in to unmask]> Date: Thursday, March 18, 2021 at 8:59 PM To: Schneider, Jim <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Jobs: MSU Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention, Summer 2021 Aquatic Invasive Species Jobs: Boater Education and Outreach Dates: Approx. June 1 through mid-August, 2021. Full-time (potential for part-time, if preferred). Location: Based at the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing. Frequent statewide travel. Aquatic invasive species primarily spread from one water body to another by “hitchhiking” on boats, trailers, and other equipment. You can help protect Michigan waters from invasive species by teaching boaters about invasive species, and how to keep their boats and gear free of hitchhikers. Through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Forest Service and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), Michigan State University leads a multi-year program to teach boaters how to reduce this risk by properly inspecting and cleaning their equipment. Position Descriptions: One Crew Leader and 1-2 Crew Member(s) are sought to work alongside program partners from MSU, the Huron-Manistee National Forest, and EGLE. You will have significant responsibility for the implementation of this outreach and education program. Activities will include: 1. Towing, operating, and maintaining a trailer-mounted power-washing unit at boat landings and events around Michigan, demonstrating boat inspection and washing techniques to recreational boaters; 2. Planning these educational events by working with partner organizations around the state to identify suitable locations and dates; 3. Preparing for and providing educational opportunities for people interested in learning about aquatic invasive species, best boating practices to reduce their spread, and how to most effectively work with the boating public to provide education on aquatic invasive species and boat cleaning; 4. Maintaining records of events, including costs, locations, numbers of volunteers and boaters trained, invasive species encountered, and public feedback; 5. Conducting boater surveys to better understand knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to aquatic invasive species; and 6. Working with program partners to promote the Mobile Boat Wash program through social media and local media outlets statewide, including newspapers, radio, and television. Additionally, the Crew Leader will be responsible for assuring that the entire crew is operating effectively as a team to achieve program goals, including troubleshooting and encouraging good communication among all members of the team and the supervisors from MSU and EGLE. The Crew Leader is responsible for managing project funds and ensuring equipment and supplies are available and in good working order. The optimal candidate will have solid understanding of aquatic ecology and/or invasive species, and leadership experience. COVID-19 Note: This project and all staff will be required to maintain compliance with current COVID-19 safety protocols enacted by Michigan State University, the State of Michigan, and local communities. As such, our activities and our ability to travel and provide in-person outreach and education events may be limited or change during the course of the season. As such, development and delivery of virtual programs and digital materials may become a significant part of your job duties during the project period. Qualifications: Availability to travel around the state to boater outreach events, which will regularly occur on weekends, holidays, and occasionally overnight. The typical workweek is Wednesday through Sunday, with some variability. Valid drivers’ license and eligibility to drive University-owned vehicles (see Employee Driver Certification at http://www.rmi.msu.edu/form/employeedrivercertification.html). Coursework in aquatic ecology or related field. Interest in public outreach and freshwater management. Boating experience, experience hauling and maneuvering trailers, and experience planning and carrying out educational programming or other events are desirable qualifications, but not required. Position Dates: 30-40 hours per week from approximately June 1 through mid-August 2021; specific start and end dates negotiable. Pay: $13.50/hour (Crew Member); $15.50/hour (Crew Leader). Housing not provided; overnight lodging costs covered when necessary for work. To Apply: Send your current resume and a 1 to 2-page cover letter explaining your interest in and qualifications for the position, as well as contact information for 3 references, via email to the contact below. Clearly indicate whether you are applying for a CREW MEMBER or CREW LEADER position (or both). Application Deadline: Applications accepted until April 15, 2021, or until filled. Contact: Dr. Jo Latimore: [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>, 517-432-1491