Watercraft Inspection Steward

Location: Geneva, NY

Open Date: Feb 16, 2026

Description

Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff, Watercraft Stewards will offer watercraft and trailer inspections and educational materials at public boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region. Stewards will collect data on inspections, launch users, and invasive species findings. Watercraft inspections entail visual examination and removal of invasive species from boats and trailers. Stewards will help disseminate critical conservation messaging and initiatives to the public. Qualified candidates will be considered for watercraft decontamination. Decontamination stewards conduct similar job duties as regular stewards and conduct additional boat decontaminations when necessary and appropriate. Decontamination positions are limited (1) and offer increased compensation to reflect added responsibilities and job duties. Locations for these positions include but are not limited to public boat launches on Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Owasco, and Otisco Lakes; in addition to parts of the Erie Canal and Lake Ontario in Rochester, NY. Gain valuable experience, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to regional conservation efforts through seasonal work.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend multi-day training led by Finger Lakes PRISM and FLI staff (May 18-20, 2026)
• Conduct watercraft inspections and associated data collection
• Educate boaters on invasive species and prevention methods
• Participate in outreach events and invasive species removal efforts
• Attend periodic staff meetings and training updates

OTHER INFORMATION

This is a seasonal (summer), non-benefits-eligible position (May 18 to September 7, options to go through October 30, 2026). The position is based at boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region and requires roughly twice monthly travel to Hobart and William Smith Colleges. 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. Willingness and ability to travel and to work nights and weekends on occasion. Access to reliable transportation is required. Employees will be reimbursed at the federally approved rate for work-related travel when using personal vehicle beyond their commute. This position description is not all-inclusive as other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned. Pay range: $19- $19.50/ hr.

About HWS

A liberal arts and sciences institution, Hobart and William Smith is known for consistent success in preparing students for meaningful lives and fulfilling careers through an outcomes-based focus on their futures. Our nationally ranked faculty are accessible teachers and scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. World challenges are studied in the classroom where critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills are honed. In the field, knowledge turns into discovery. In office hours, plans are carefully crafted to tie interests and talents to an academic path that motivates beyond graduation.

Our location in the heart of the Finger Lakes allows faculty, staff and students to live and work collaboratively on the banks of a resource-rich lake. Student-athletes play for 30 varsity teams boasting 24 national titles, including the 2023 and 2024 NCAA DIII Men's Ice Hockey Championships. With three graduate programs, students can build on their undergraduate degree with a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership, Master of Arts in Teaching, or a Master of Science in Management. Together, the experiences and mentorship at HWS prepare students to lead lives of consequence.

Qualifications

• Background in environmental science, ecology, or related fields preferred
• Knowledge of aquatic invasive species and regional ecosystems preferred
• Strong communication skills for public engagement
• Ability to work independently and follow data collection protocols
• Reliable transportation required
• Physically able to work outdoors for extended periods
• Must be available weekends and holidays