We’re Hiring! Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager

The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program Manager (PM) plans, implements, and oversees the AIS programs of the Finger Lakes PRISM, including the long-standing Finger Lakes Watercraft Inspection Steward Program (FL WISP). The AISPM leads and collaborates on education, early detection, monitoring, and treatment of AIS. The AISPM reports to the Associate Director of Invasive Species Programs at the FLI. This position operates under contract with the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and involves regional and statewide collaboration of AIS topics.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Launch and oversee the Finger Lakes PRISM’s Watercraft Inspection Steward Program as part of the statewide WISP.
  • Identify ~20 launches boat launch sites, coordinate access and operation with property owners.
  • Liaise with regional partners to ensure appropriate boat launch coverage across multiple programs.
  • Oversee recruitment, retention, and supervision of qualified watercraft stewards (20 to 30).
  • Host regional training.
  • Lead reporting requirements including data analysis and annual reports.
• Train, coordinate, supervise, and when necessary assist in the selection of additional seasonal staff including an aquatic regional response team, interns, and/or stewards.
• Identify regional AIS needs and develop strategies for fulfillment through research, planning, surveys, mapping, removal and monitoring of priority AIS infestations.
• Coordinate and administer AIS programs focused on early detection, rapid response, community monitoring, and treatment.
• Analyze distribution trends and management efficacy through data collection programs, geographic information systems, databases and reporting to set priorities for prevention and management.
• Provide or support regional AIS training opportunities including outreach and education programs.
• Identify, pursue and administer grant funded projects in collaboration with regional stakeholders.
• Represent Finger Lakes PRISM as a member of statewide and regional working groups and involving coordination and direction from NYSDEC.
• Participate in statewide and regional IS meetings.
• Work and communicate with other FLI program staff and partners on shared projects.
• Provide quarterly program updates/reports and contribute to annual work plan and annual report.
• Demonstrate knowledge for the Colleges’ educational philosophy and mission.
• Demonstrate an awareness of and sensitivity to unique social, cultural, and economic circumstances.
• Performs other related duties as required.

• Undergraduate Degree required, Master’s Degree preferred (Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources or similar) or equivalent professional experience.
• A minimum 3-years related professional experience required.
• Knowledge of aquatic invasive species.
• Demonstrated success with program development, coordination, and delivery.

Other Information:

The Finger Lakes PRISM is one of eight PRISMs supported via funding from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund as administered by NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation. This is a full-time, benefits eligible  position with current funding expected to continue through December 31, 2023. Position is based out of the Finger Lakes Institute at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Willingness and ability to travel and to work nights and weekends on occasion. Possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license required. Employee will be reimbursed at the federally approved rate for work related travel when using personal vehicle This position description is not all-inclusive as other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned.