Aquatic Invasive Species Diver

City of Boulder•Boulder, CO

1d•$21 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Aquatic Invasive Species Diver performs specialized field work supporting the City of Boulder’s Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program through Diver-Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) and hand-harvesting operations at Boulder Reservoir. This position is responsible for the identification and removal of invasive aquatic vegetation, primarily Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM), using surface-supplied air and SCUBA methods. Work requires strict adherence to safety protocols, environmental compliance standards, and established dive plans.

Requirements

Ability to actively listen and follow established dive and safety protocols.
Ability to communicate effectively as part of a coordinated dive team.
Ability to maintain detailed and accurate field documentation and dive logs.
Knowledge of basic dive safety principles and emergency procedures.
Skill in operating SCUBA or surface-supplied air dive equipment safely and effectively.
Must hold and maintain a valid drivers' license.
Must successfully pass a background check before first day of work and maintain acceptable screening.
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Open Water SCUBA Certification from a recognized certifying agency (PADI, NAUI, SSI, or equivalent).
Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED certification from the American Red Cross or ability to obtain certification within 30 days of hire.
No prior professional diving or aquatic plant management experience required.

Nice To Haves

Ability to positively identify aquatic plant species, including Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM).
Knowledge of aquatic invasive species management practices and environmental stewardship principles.
Knowledge of Diver-Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) systems and protocols.
Skill in small boat operations.
Skill in maintaining dive equipment and mechanical systems associated with suction harvesting.
Experience working in field-based environmental restoration, aquatic management, or scientific monitoring programs.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife watercraft inspection and decontamination certification.

Responsibilities

Identifies invasive aquatic plant species under varying underwater conditions, including limited visibility and dense vegetation.
Executes Diver-Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) and hand-harvesting techniques in accordance with established operational protocols.
Removes invasive aquatic vegetation as directed by the Dive Leader or Program Supervisor.
Assists with the collection, containment, handling, and proper disposal of removed aquatic vegetation.
Maintains accurate dive logs, vegetation removal data, and required field documentation.
Conducts pre-dive safety checks and adheres to all approved dive plans and safety standards.
Assists with the setup, operation, breakdown, cleaning, and disinfection of dive boats, surface-supplied air systems, and associated equipment.
Supports routine maintenance and inspection of diving and harvesting equipment.
Participates in team briefings, debriefings, and safety meetings.
Performs other duties as assigned in support of the Boulder Reservoir Aquatic Invasive Species Program.