Watercraft Inspector - Natural Resources Technician 2 - Non-Permanent - 4 Openings
Watercraft Inspector Join the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Unit and be a part of a dedicated team working to protect state waters. In this role, you'll use your strong customer service skills to engage with the public to collect essential data, conduct watercraft inspections, and carry out decontamination procedures to prevent the spread of invasive species. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Watercraft Inspector will: Inspect recreational and commercial watercraft conveyances at Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination (WID) stations and on roving patrol. Conduct standardized interviews with the public to collect watercraft conveyance information and history and upload records into the multi-state Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination (WID) database using a provided iOS tablet or agency-issued laptop. Follow watercraft inspection guidelines for Watercraft Inspection Technician (WIT) 1 and 2 trainings including preservation of suspected aquatic invasive species (AIS). Educate the public on "Clean, Drain, Dry" process and AIS. Complete and submit weekly activity reports. Clean restrooms and pick up litter. Routine maintenance of vehicles, trailered electronic reader boards, and electronic tablets. Working Conditions: Work is performed primarily outdoors at watercraft inspection and decontamination stations, often in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments, hot decontamination equipment, cleaning agents, and occasional contact with aquatic organisms. The position involves standing for extended periods, performing repetitive tasks, and safely operating vehicles and decontamination equipment. Occasional lifting of materials and maintenance activities such as cleaning, landscaping, and facility upkeep. Schedule: This position is full-time, working 40 hours per week. Shifts may vary based on operational needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening, weekend work or holidays as needed. Travel Requirements: Frequent travel to and from various watercraft inspection and decontamination stations throughout the region, operating a state vehicle. Travel is typically within an assigned area but may occasionally extend to other parts of the state for training, meetings, or to support program operations. Tools and Equipment: Transport and operate equipment including a trailered electronic reader board, trailered hot-water pressure washer, and a one-ton 4x4 truck. Operate and maintain various inspection and decontamination tools and supplies such as hoses, pumps, sprayers, and protective gear. Use personal computers, smartphones, and iPads for data entry and communication. Use hand tools, cleaning and maintenance equipment, and GPS or mapping devices to support field operations and station upkeep. Customer Interactions: Interact with the public at mandatory check stations for trailered watercraft and decontaminations of infested AIS watercraft and occasionally is confronted with citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative. Qualifications: Required Qualifications: At least one (1) of the following: One (1) year of experience as a Natural Resource Worker 2. Two (2) years of college level work in the field of fish, wildlife, or habitat management, agriculture, forestry, or a natural resource science performing technical or paraprofessional duties related to aquatic invasive species, field inspection, biosecurity practices, and/or handling and decontaminating equipment. A combination of education and/or relevant experience in the field of fish, wildlife, or habitat management, agriculture, forestry, or a natural resource science performing technical or paraprofessional duties related to aquatic invasive species, field inspection, biosecurity practices, and/or handling and decontaminating equipment totaling to two (2) years. Certifications/Licenses: Valid Driver's License Preferred Qualifications: In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following: Bachelor's degree in the field of fish, wildlife, or habitat management, agriculture, forestry, or a natural resource science Two (2) years of experience as a Natural Resource Worker 2. One (1) year of professional experience with: Watercraft inspection Using computers, electronic tablets, and data collection applications Certifications: Watercraft Inspection Technician 1 (WIT Level 1) certification Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Roadside Safety certification Your application must include the following: A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements. An up-to-date resume. A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate. At least three professional references with current contact information.