Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist 2026-01459

State of Wyoming•Green River, WY

23h•Onsite

About The Position

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Specialist based in Green River to implement regional programming aimed at protecting Wyoming’s aquatic resources and infrastructure. The primary focus of this position is to prevent the introduction and spread of AIS through proactive public outreach, watercraft inspections, and environmental monitoring. Key responsibilities include overseeing regional watercraft inspection stations and managing the recruitment, training, and supervision of AIS inspectors and station leads. The role further entails leading local education initiatives, analyzing field data, and producing technical reports to inform conservation strategies. Additionally, the specialist coordinates with local partners to maintain rapid response plans and executes critical eradication and control efforts to ensure the continued health of the state's waterways.

Requirements

Knowledge of Wyoming statutes and regulations associated with AIS, fish and wildlife, transport, and importation.
Knowledge of aquatic invasive species biology, identification, life history, control measures, and sampling techniques.
Knowledge of aquatic invasive species interdiction and management strategies.
Knowledge of the complex water intake systems used in a diversity of motorized watercraft types and other types of conveyances.
Able to properly inspect and decontaminate a wide range of watercraft and other conveyances.
Skilled in developing and modifying work schedules involving multiple employees.
Able to communicate (oral and written) clear and succinct project proposals, procedures, and technical reports for the public, agency employees, and scientific audiences.
Skilled in interpersonal communication, customer service, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Able to effectively work in team settings and listen to partners and cooperators.
Skilled in collaboration, coordination, and facilitation with diverse stakeholder groups.
Skilled in the use of computers, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, GIS, etc.
Able to develop, track, and manage budgets.
Able to prepare and implement work plans.
Able to operate and repair sampling equipment, including small engines, boats, 4 WD vehicles, and other similar equipment that is used by the AIS program.
Able to conduct and oversee multiple concurrent projects and complete work in a timely manner.
Able to conduct boat inspections and AIS monitoring under adverse weather conditions.
Skilled in planning, organizing, and conducting training for members of the public and agency personnel.
Bachelor's Degree (typically in Wildlife Management)
0-3 years progressive work experience (typically in Wildlife Management) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Wildlife Biologist I OR 4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in Wildlife Management) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Wildlife Biologist I
Must have a valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in natural resources management or a related field, plus proven experience in aquatic invasive species (AIS) prevention, monitoring, watercraft inspection/decontamination, and public outreach.

Responsibilities

Hires, trains, and supervises AIS Inspectors, Crew Lead, and Check Station Supervisor.
Coordinates the daily activities, duties, and schedules of inspection stations.
Develops watercraft inspection plans to ensure inspection at priority waters throughout Wyoming.
Implement the border and watercraft inspection and decontamination program.
Leads decontamination of high-risk watercraft and coordinates with law enforcement on inspection compliance and watercraft quarantine.
Serves as a primary point of contact to the public regarding questions and complaints about watercraft inspections and/or decontamination.
Works with the AIS coordinator and statewide personnel to disseminate outreach messages.
Educates and informs the public regarding AIS threats and prevention, including inspection and decontamination requirements, private AIS inspector certification, monitoring activities, and threats to the state's resources.
Conducts annual monitoring for early detection of AIS on priority waters in the region.
Conducts surveys of existing AIS and nuisance species and responds to reports from the public related to potential AIS.
Develops and tracks the regional budget and ensures adherence to fiscal policy.
Coordinates with partners (WYDOT, State Parks, USFS, etc.) to provide a consistent response and responsive AIS boat inspection process for the public.
Works to develop and maintain Rapid Response Plans to prepare for the potential introduction of invasive mussels.
Researches and identifies opportunities and implements actions to control, eradicate, and contain introduced AIS.