Watercraft Inspector (Level 1)

The Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District (CLFLWD) is now accepting applications for watercraft inspectors for the 2026 season (May-October). We are looking for friendly, energetic people to educate boaters and inspect their water equipment for aquatic invasive species (AIS). Watercraft inspectors play a crucial role in preventing the spread of invasive species that damage lake and river ecosystems and pose serious risks to the economy, recreation, and public health.

Inspectors will make $16.50 an hour while working a minimum of 16 hours per week primarily on weekends (Friday-Sunday) with occasional weekday shifts. Additional compensation includes time-and-a-half pay for holiday work, raises for returning inspectors, and season-end bonuses available to all inspectors. Inspectors will work outdoors at Comfort, Bone, and Forest Lakes. They will be able to educate the public about the threats of AIS and meet people that love lakes as much as they do! All necessary training is provided, so no prior inspection or AIS experience is required.

Compensation: $16.50 per hour without benefits; Time-and-a-half pay for holiday work; Raises available for returning inspectors; Season-end performance-based bonuses available to all inspectors. 

Hours: Part-time (20 hours per week), Mostly weekend shifts (Friday-Sunday) 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Inspect watercraft at boat launches for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)
• Inform and educate the public on the threats of ecologically harmful AIS
• Provide citizens with training and education on how to prevent the transport of AIS
• Perform AIS early detection surveys at boat launches
• Use a rake to periodically remove aquatic plant material from shallow water near the boat launch. This involves grasping (applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm) and pulling (using upper extremities to exert force to draw, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion)

Qualifications:  

Required: 

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Valid drivers’ license and access to an insured motor vehicle
• Weekend availability
• Ability to stand or sit for long periods of time

Preferred: 

• Demonstrated interest in environmental work through education, volunteer work, or hobbies.
• Strong verbal communication skills
• Holiday availability
• Sound understanding of interpersonal relations
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks in a professional setting
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Currently pursuing or completed an Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Natural Resources, Fisheries & Wildlife, Education, Law Enforcement or similar degrees. Professional experience and personal interest in these or related fields are also preferred.