Aquatic Invasive Species Watercraft Inspector/Educator

Organization

Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board

Job Posted

March 7, 2023

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Courtney Sullivan

Contact Email

csullivan@minneapolisparks.org

Contact Phone

612-230-6430

Location

Minneapolis, MN
United States
Inspect watercraft and educate boaters as they enter and exit the lakes in the Minneapolis Parks.  Temporary position starting approximately April- December 1st.

Summary

Summary:
Position is open until filled.  Apply online at www.minneapolisparks.org/jobs 

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is seeking educators to work in our Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) education and watercraft inspection program.  Educators will primarily work at Lake Harriet, Lake Nokomis and Bde Maka Ska.  Assigned shifts and work locations will vary based on department needs.  The position is temporary with an expected duration from approximately April through December 1st.  Must be available for day, evening and weekend hours. Opening shifts start before dawn (as early as 5:45AM) to early afternoon and closing shifts start in the afternoon to after dusk (as late as 10:30PM), seven days per week. Hours/days vary throughout the season with most employees working up to 30 hours per week.   Workload based on seasonal needs and hours of operation including days, nights, holidays and weekends.  Regular attendance at work is expected.  May work for prolonged periods of time outdoors and in all weather conditions.  On-site shelters can be used during times of inclement weather.  May be assigned to work individually or in pairs/teams.
 
In October and November, the number of available work hours is reduced and assigned based on need and skill level.   Work assignments during this time will be combination of office and field work.  

 

What You'll Do
  • Inspect watercraft and educate boaters as they enter and exit the lakes in the Minneapolis Parks. 
  • Provide interactive AIS education for all ages at boat landings in Minneapolis Parks. 
  • Conduct inspections, track interactions with boaters, and collect customer service information from the general public; log information on a mobile device. Mobile device also used for shift scheduling and communication with supervisory staff
  • Conduct AIS early detection boat launch surveys using in-water detection tools and equipment. 
  • Open and close work station kiosks at beginning and end of shift, sometimes at dawn or dusk depending on time of year.   
  • Follow protocol for notifying supervisor of concerns.
  • Assist MPRB in identifying and addressing the park and recreation needs of underserved and under-represented communities.
  • Other duties as assigned. 

 

What To Bring

Need to Have:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Valid driver's license
  • Must attend DNR watercraft inspector certification course and pass exam within the first month after being hired.
  • Must have ability to travel between work locations.  
Nice to Have:
  • Experience in environmental education preferred.
  • Previous customer service experience and/or working with public preferred.
  • Ability to communicate fluently in a language other than English preferred.  
Skills Crucial to Success in This Role:
  • Interest in learning to identify Minnesota's aquatic invasive species.
  • Ability to properly operate tools necessary for the performance of duties including
    electronic devices.
  • Independent, self-motivated worker
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule (morning, day and evening) at various MPRB boat launches.
  • Excellent communications skills to communicate the importance for invasive species programs, policies, and actions.
  • Understand and follow supervisor directions, work rules, policies, and procedures.
  • Outstanding customer service principles and practices and standards for a diverse
    customer base.
Additional Information

FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Union Status: Non-represented

To view a full list of qualifications and job description, click Here

Selection Process:
To apply for this temporary position, applicants must complete an online application with supplemental questions at www.minneapolisparks.org/jobs.  This position is open until filled.
What steps the selection process involves:

  • We review your minimum qualifications.
  • We conduct an interview.
  • References, including verification of employment and work performance, may be considered. Past performance and discipline may be considered.
  • We conduct a background check. Upon receiving a conditional offer of employment, the applicant will be asked to sign an informed consent allowing the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to obtain their criminal history in connection with the positions sought. View the MPRB Background Check Policy Here (Download PDF reader)
Please note that HR reserves the right to limit the number of people invited to successive testing events.
The MPRB is a tobacco-free workplace and park system.
The MPRB is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Compensation Information

$16.00/hour