AIS Interdiction Specialist

State of Utah Office of the Governor•Page, AZ

1d•$23 - $37•Onsite

About The Position

The employee will implement the Utah Department of Natural Resource’s (UDNR) invasive mussel action plan within an assigned region in order to keep aquatic invasive species (AIS) from becoming established in Utah, and containing existing AIS to locations where they have become established within Utah. The primary focus of the action plan involves outreach and interdiction efforts to identify suspect boats and other water-related recreational equipment contaminated with AIS including decontamination of that equipment. The incumbent will be the lead biologist tasked with coordinating and implementing all duties related to the AIS interdiction program in the assigned area. They will work with and supervise the activities of multiple, seasonal wildlife technicians assigned to the project, including coordination with law enforcement and other biologists.

Requirements

Valid driver's license.
Experience with AIS, specifically quagga mussels.
Supervisory skills.

Nice To Haves

Will possess a bachelor's degree or higher.
Have experience working with quagga mussel, or other aquatic invasive species issues.
Will have moderate handyman skills, with the ability to identify and fix mechanical equipment.
Have advanced working knowledge of aquatic invasive species inspection and decontamination procedures.

Responsibilities

Supervise, train, and assist a team of wildlife technicians, and coordinate with contracted partners to identify and decontaminate watercraft & associated equipment that may contain aquatic invasive species.
Conduct interviews for and hire seasonal employees
Develop and implement statewide aquatic invasive species outreach, interdiction, and decontamination strategies.
Work with local, state, and federal partner agencies.
Assist with other statewide aquatics projects as assigned by immediate supervisor
Attend assigned meetings with coordination/management groups regarding AIS interdiction.
Attend various training sessions and meetings to improve skills, coordinate work, and communicate key findings with other individuals and agencies.
Maintenance of facilities and equipment.