Temporary Aquatic Nuisance Species Containment Technician- Highline Lake State Park

Department Information

THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS) - PAYING $18.00 PER HOUR

EMPLOYMENT STARTS 04/01/2024 THROUGH 09/30/2024

To apply, please submit only your application (without attachments such as resumes or cover letters). This announcement will remain open until FILLED.

The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW)

Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources. Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Description of Job

This position is focused on efforts to contain zebra mussels, a highly invasive aquatic nuisance species, to Highline Lake State Park. Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and standard containment protocols Highline Lake State Park near Mack, Colorado. Work will either be completed independently or in pairs to inspect boats launching and leaving the reservoir, with respect to invasive species such as zebra/quagga mussels.

• Position will be expected to provide watercraft decontamination services for the public. Public outreach on the aquatic invasive species topic by providing printed material to those visiting the reservoir. The position will report directly to the boat ramp. Boat inspection & decontamination training will be provided.

• Position will also conduct Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) surveys, using standardized scientific protocols at Highline Lake. Specifically, this position will conduct standardized monitoring for zebra mussels including infestation mapping and population monitoring.

• Water quality monitoring will also be conducted. Detailed record keeping and the ability to follow strict field protocols is required.

• Position will be expected to work nights weekends and holidays.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

B.S. in natural resources/botany/fisheries/wildlife or other natural resource field

OR

At least 3 years completed coursework toward a degree in the field is desired.

• Previous experience conducting field surveys is required, preferably experience with aquatics and/or water quality.

• Preference will be given to candidates with prior zebra or quagga mussel, New Zealand Mudsnail or eurasian watermilfoil experience and/or population monitoring experience.

• Experience with Arc Field Maps and ArcGIS software preferred.

• Experience with Microsoft Word applications required

• Word, Excel, Access

• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) are required.

• Good driving record and ability to work weekends, early mornings and late evenings.

• Experience working with boats, trailers, power washers, small engines and/or heavy equipment preferred.

• Excellent customer service experienced working with the public desired.

• Reliable and timely.

• Ability to self-motivate and work independently.

• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to swim.

PREFERRED EDUCATION: Bachelors Degree in Biological Sciences or higher education.

Supplemental Information

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us.

ADAAA Accommodations

Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us. at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date.

E-Verify employer:

The Department of Natural Resources participates in E-Verify in accordance with the program's Right to Work for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.

Toll-Free Applicant Support

• Technical Help

If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it. The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with these types of technical issues.