Job Posting: Cook County Aquatic Invasive Species Watercraft Inspector Job Title: Aquatic Invasive Species Watercraft Inspector Employer: Cook Soil & Water Conservation District Compensation: $18/hour - up to 32 hours/week - weekend work necessary Position Start Date: May 20, 2026, through September 15, 2026 Position Description: Cook Soil and Water Conservation District (Cook SWCD) is filling a temporary and seasonal Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Watercraft Inspector position. The position primarily consists of field work. The AIS Watercraft Inspector serves to inform and educate the public to threats of ecologically harmful AIS to Minnesota’s waters. Inspectors work at public water access sites educating the public by providing information to watercraft users and conducting a brief survey while inspecting watercraft for invasive species. This position is based out of Cook County, Minnesota. Essential Functions: • Educate the public on aquatic invasive species issues and Minnesota laws pertaining to aquatic invasive species. • With consent of owners, inspect boats, trailers, tow vehicles and related equipment for aquatic plants, animals, mud, or water on board. • Conduct a brief verbal survey and inspection inventory with boat landing visitors. • Collect and record data in accordance with the program. • Communicate weekly efforts with Aquatic Invasive Species Supervisor. • Notify Cook County Sheriff’s Office and Supervisor of noncompliance while avoiding conflict or confrontations. This position does not enforce the law. • Attend and pass all required trainings related to this position. Non-Essential Functions: • Perform other related duties as assigned. • Perform other SWCD District duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: • Ability to self-start and to work independently with minimal supervision. • Knowledge of aquatic invasive species (AIS) present in Minnesota and Cook County and of potential threats to the Minnesota ecosystems and their impacts. • Knowledge of aquatic plant species native to Minnesota and demonstrated ability to identify the most common aquatic invasive species found in the state. • Demonstrated ability to have clear and effective communication with individuals, small to medium sized groups, and the news media. • Availability to work weekends, weekdays, and holidays in adverse weather conditions. • Ability to work with a diverse group of partners and stakeholders. • Exceptional customer service skills and the ability to communicate with the public in a one-to-one manner. • Demonstrated interest in environmental work through education, volunteer work and/or hobbies. • Sense of humor. • Provide own transportation for work. Mileage is reimbursed at government rate. • Hold a valid class D driver’s license, possess a reliable vehicle, show proof of vehicle insurance. Physical Requirements Necessary to Perform this Job: • Reach overhead and bend to inspect boats, trailers, tow vehicles and related equipment for aquatic plants, animals, or water on board. • Ability to be mobile for long durations and over a variety of steps and ramps. • Hear and speak effectively to communicate in person and by phone with the public, employees, and others. • Physical strength and agility to perform daily lifting and moving of supplies and equipment weighing up to 40 pounds. Work Environment: • Duties are performed outdoors in remote locations with exposure to all weather conditions o No cell reception, no restroom facilities o Head net, sunscreen, hat, closed-toed shoes, rain gear, layers of clothing are necessary • Requires walking and standing to a significant degree on rough terrain • Watercraft Inspectors will be assigned and travel to public water accesses within Cook County. To Apply: Visit www.cookcountymn.gov and click on job openings on the bottom left side. If you have questions about applying for this position, please contact Ilena Hansel at 218-387-3648. “This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer” Cook County MN will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial status, veteran status, or status about public assistance. We take affirmative steps to ensure that all our county’s employment practices are free of discrimination.
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Cook County Courthouse, 411 W 2nd Street, Grand Marais, MN