Invasive Aquatics Dive Crew Leader

7 Lakes Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters of Maine’s Belgrade Lakes Region. We are seeking energetic, motivated individuals to join our Invasive Aquatics Survey & Dive Crew for the 2026 field season.

Position Overview: The Invasive Aquatics Crew Leader plays a critical leadership role in protecting lake ecosystems by overseeing daily invasive aquatic plant survey and removal operations. Crew Leaders serve as the primary liaison between the Program Director and field staff, translating work plans into safe, efficient, and well-executed daily missions. Each Crew Leader supervises a team of 2–3 crew members and is responsible for coordinating logistics, ensuring safety compliance, maintaining data integrity, and fostering a positive, high-performing field team culture. This is a physically demanding position requiring extensive time on and under the water in varying weather conditions. Ideal candidates combine strong field skills with clear communication, sound judgment, and the ability to lead by example. Coursework or experience in biology, environmental science, conservation, or related fields is strongly preferred. Due to the hazardous nature of the work, applicants must be 18 years or older. SCUBA certification is required for dive-based removal operations.

Responsibilities:

• Receive weekly and daily work plans from the Program Director and communicate clear objectives to crew members.
• Oversee and execute daily survey and dive missions across multiple lakes and streams.
• Supervise, mentor, and support a team of 2–3 crew members in field operations.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols, dive plans, and equipment standards.
• Monitor field conditions and adjust plans as needed to maintain safety and productivity.
• Serve as the on-water decision-maker during survey and removal operations.
• Maintain detailed field notes and ensure accurate data collection using digital platforms.
• Communicate daily progress, plant distribution observations, and logistical needs to the Program Director.

Qualifications:

• Lead lake and stream surveys using kayak, motorboat, snorkel, and SCUBA.
• Direct and participate in removal of submersed invasive aquatic plants by hand and via diver-assisted suction harvesting (DASH).
• Operate and maintain small engines and equipment (motorboats, trucks, surface-supplied air systems, pumps).
• Coordinate staging, transport, and secure storage of dive gear and field equipment.
• Assist with volunteer-powered survey events and represent the organization in community outreach efforts.
• Support citizen science and research initiatives related to invasive aquatic species management.