Current Job Openings

WATERCRAFT INSPECTOR

Position Overview: We are seeking diligent and detail-oriented Watercraft Inspectors to join our team. The successful candidates will be responsible for performing inspections and decontamination of watercraft at designated reservoirs, contributing to the prevention of invasive species spread. Inspectors will work in a variety of weather conditions, perform data collection, and maintain a safe and efficient inspection process for boaters.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct access or exit-based inspections of watercraft at designated reservoirs or rove between multiple locations.
• Perform watercraft decontamination to ensure the prevention of invasive species, particularly zebra mussels.
• Collect and enter inspection and decontamination data accurately into a database daily.
• Set up and tear down Watercraft Inspection Stations (WID) each day.
• Work in a variety of weather conditions and ensure the safety and efficiency of inspections.
• Ensure inspections are performed in compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines.
• Operate within the station’s hours of operation: 10 hours/day, 4 days/week (40 hours total)
• Be proactive in inspecting watercraft at reservoirs as they enter, while prioritizing exit inspections to contain and slow the spread of zebra mussels.

Compensation:

• $17/hour with $0.51 per mile compensation for travel after 15 miles commuting each way (30 miles total).

Qualifications:

• Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions.
• Attention to detail and the ability to accurately record data.
• Strong communication skills to interact with the public and team members.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and adhere to guidelines.
• Availability to work weekends and holidays as stations are open seven days a week.
• Experience with watercraft inspections or decontamination is a plus, but not required.

Work Location: Inspectors will be stationed at various reservoirs. Some roving between reservoirs may be required. Reservoirs include Pactola, Orman, Angostura, and Sheridan.



Additional Information:

• This position plays a critical role in managing invasive species, particularly the containment of zebra mussels at Pactola Reservoir, which is the only reservoir in the Black Hills with an active zebra mussel presence.
• Weekend availability is essential as stations operate seven days per week.

If you are passionate about protecting natural resources and enjoy working outdoors, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position. Please reach out to Eva Chase, Pennington Conservation District Manager, at PenningtonCD@SDConservation.net with any questions or for further clarification regarding the role.