Plant Control Coordinator

Plant Control Coordinator

The Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed was founded in 2001 as a citizen grass-roots effort to assist in the protection of local water quality. The Friends educational and conservation programs aim to manage two major concerns in our watershed: Aquatic Invasive Species and Non-Point Source pollution. 

The Friend’s Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) program utilizes a few manual control methods to manage the three known aquatic invasive species in our watershed, primarily on Cobbossee Lake. Control methods include Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) via pontoon boat, manual hand removal using surface-supplied air, or the installation of benthic barriers. The Plant Control Coordinator works with the Director of Conservation and Conservation Program Manager to use best management practices on infested waterbodies. This coordinator will lead a team of 3 as needed for control efforts. 

The coordinator can expect to start work in May and end in October schedule permitting. Some flexibility is available for the right candidate. On-the-job training provided. The Friends are seeking a responsible and driven person to fulfill the position of Plant Control Coordinator at $20/hour for 35 hrs/week. 

Qualifications: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, particularly with the public. 

• Attention to detail in filling out data forms, creating reports and maps, and following plant survey/control plans. 

• Ability to lead a small group positively, be a good role model, and encourage a good work ethic. 

• Work with the Director of Conservation to plan and implement manual control efforts. 

• Work as a plant survey team member when not in active control efforts. 

• Experience driving boats. 

• SCUBA certification or ability to become certified before May. 

• Willingness to work in difficult situations; low underwater visibility, cold temperatures, and depths that may be dark or hard to maneuver in. 

• Available May to September, work may be available into October. 

Responsibilities include: 

• Communicate daily with the Director and Programs Manager. 

• Submit plant control data and help with promoting the work done by the team. 

• Overseeing care and maintenance/sanitization of work equipment, such as boats, kayaks, SCUBA equipment, life vests, Aquascopes, etc. 

• Fulfill other duties as assigned to further the mission of the organization. 

Additional skills: 

• Familiarity with motorized boats and safe boating practices on lakes. 

• Ability to tow and launch boats safely while following Clean, Drain, Dry protocols. 

• Familiarity with botany and/or plant identification, aquatic species a bonus. 

• High energy level with a positive attitude. 

• Willingness to learn quickly, work collaboratively, and lead by example. 

• Knowledge of environmental issues, with a focus on watershed ecology and invasive species. 

• Valid driver's license, clean driving record, and ability to pass a background check.

• Mechanical aptitude, especially with small engines, boat equipment, and related items. 

To Apply: Please email a resume, cover letter, and three references to Jennifer Peasnall Director of Conservation at jennifer@watershedfriends.com or send to Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed, PO Box 206, East Winthrop Maine, 04343