Conservation Technician

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct Clean Boats Clean Waters watercraft inspections at boat landings on Lake Superior and inland lakes to educate boaters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts about aquatic invasive species (AIS).
• Operate a portable boat wash station at boat landings on Lake Superior and inland lakes.
• Enter data into the Surface Water Integrated Monitoring System database.
• Educate the public about AIS at workshops, trainings and educational outreach events.
• Assist the Land and Water Specialist with the implementation of Ashland County’s Lake Monitoring and Protection Network, including Project Riverine Early Detectors, Citizen Lake Monitoring Network, Purple Loosestrife Biocontrol, Bait Dealer Initiative, Landing Blitz and Drain Campaign.
• Assist the Land and Water Specialist with invasive species containment and control projects.
• Assist the Agricultural Technician with soil sampling and Farm Field Days.
• Assist the Department with other duties as assigned (ie: fieldwork, events, social media, etc).

Requirements and Desired Qualifications:

• Must be 18+ years old with a strong work ethic, positive attitude and excellent listening skills.
• Must be able to work both independently and in a team setting.
• Responsible person, preferably with experience and/or education in the natural resources field (IE: natural resources, biology, environmental science, conservation, water resources, fisheries, wildlife).
• Basic knowledge of natural resources, soil and water conservation, and invasive species.
• Ability to work well in both a field setting and office setting.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to speak with people on a daily basis.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, a good driving record and private vehicle.
• If a county vehicle is available, it must be used for travel. If a county vehicle is not available, travel will be reimbursed at 72.5¢ per mile.
• Must be willing to work early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays, including Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day, to match peak use of public boat landings.
• Represent Ashland County with professionalism and respect.

Hours and Terms of Employment:  The position is funded for 30 to 35 hours per week, depending on the applicant’s availability and qualifications. The position will begin approximately May 27, 2026 (flexible) and end approximately September 7, 2026 (flexible). Applicants must have a flexible work schedule. Work will generally be conducted Wednesday through Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a ½ hour lunchbreak.

Compensation:  $15.00 to $17.00 per hour depending on qualifications.

Deadline:  Application materials must be received by 4:00pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.