AWI Watercraft Inspection Stewards

Adirondack Watershed Institute; Paul Smiths (NY); On-site; USD 22,162 - 31,564; Full time

Job summary

The Adirondack Watershed Institute is hiring Watercraft Inspection Stewards in Paul Smiths, New York. These seasonal roles involve engaging the public in aquatic invasive species prevention through watercraft inspections and decontaminations. Candidates of all education levels are welcome, with a preference for those who can work weekends and holidays. Starting pay is $19.50 per hour, with opportunities for additional training and responsibilities throughout the summer of 2026.

Qualifications

• Willing to initiate interaction with the public.
• Regular internet access for data upload.
• Ability to spend extended amounts of time on your feet.

Responsibilities

• Engage with the boating public at watercraft inspections.
• Collect and record data using tablets.
• Maintain and take down the steward sign and table.

Skills

Strong communication skills

High level of motivation

Ability to work independently

Prior knowledge of watercrafts

Education

All education and experience levels considered

Tools

Tablet computers

Job description

Job Information

Position: Watercraft Inspection Stewards (full and part‑time)

Status: Full and part‑time positions (Temporary, Seasonal, Non‑Exempt)

Department: Adirondack Watershed Institute

Location: Multiple Locations in Adirondack Park, New York

Reports to: Regional Supervisor

Pay Rate: Start at $19.50 per hour

Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI) is seeking to hire full and part‑time Watercraft Inspection Stewards for the summer of 2026. Stewards serve on the frontlines in the effort to prevent the transport of aquatic invasive species (AIS) through education, watercraft inspection, and decontamination. This position is the foundation of AWI’s flagship Aquatic Invasive Species Spread Prevention Program and is critical to the success of AWI’s mission.

Job Description

Watercraft Inspection Stewards engage with the boating public, electronically enter life‑support information on mobile tablets, and familiarize the public with aquatic invasive species information. All stewards conduct watercraft inspections, identify aquatic invasive species, and inform the public about ways in which they can help prevent their further spread and establishment into new waterways. For select worksite assignments, stewards receive additional training to decontaminate boats. This includes operating high pressure hot water decontamination units as needed and setting up, maintaining, breaking down, and properly storing the decontamination units daily.

Hours and Pay

Stewards work 8 hours per day, up to 40 hours per week, from May 22 – September 7, 2026. Weekend and holiday work is required for full‑time positions. Additional work may be available through October 12, 2026, contingent on funding availability. The starting pay rate is $19.50 per hour and may increase based on assigned location and responsibilities. All stewards are required to attend a paid, multi‑day online training from May 12 – 14 and attend one (1) in‑person training day on the Paul Smith’s College campus during May 19 – 21.

Job Locations

60+ sites within the Adirondack region. View our worksites at https://www.adkwatershed.org/boat-wash-stations

Duties & Responsibilities

• Greet and engage the public at boat launches or roadside locations; provide educational messaging.
• Perform watercraft inspections and removal of vegetation in accordance with training.
• Identify AIS and determine if a watercraft meets New York State’s “clean, drain, and dry” regulatory standard; recommend boat decontamination services, as necessary.
• Collect and record electronic data using tablet computers provided by AWI.
• Provide NYS DEC motorboat inspection certificates as required.
• Set up, maintain, and take down the steward sign, table, and canopy (if required) including information brochures, clean, drain, dry swag, and plant samples.
• Participate in on‑going training throughout the season.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support AWI’s mission.

Additional Duties & Responsibilities for Employees at Watercraft Decontamination Sites

• Perform watercraft decontaminations by using high‑and low‑pressure hot water.
• Perform daily maintenance of the decontamination stations, equipment, and tools.
• Work within highway right‑of‑way for short periods of time to set up and take down signage, and walk short distances carrying signage as needed.

Qualifications

• All education and experience levels are considered.
• Capable of working independently and in inclement weather.
• High level of motivation and enthusiasm, willing to initiate interaction with the public.
• Strong communication skills.
• Prior experience using a tablet computer or the ability to learn to use a tablet computer for data entry purposes.
• Regular internet access to upload data and fill in an online timecard.
• Ability to spend extended amounts of time on your feet, bending, and crouching to reach under vessels.
• Prior knowledge of watercrafts and aquatic invasive species or a willingness to learn.
• Use of a personal vehicle for gear transportation and shelter at work locations for shift duration.
• Ability to work all weekends and holidays is strongly preferred for full‑time applicants.

Additional Qualifications For Employment At Watercraft Decontamination Sites

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and maneuver wheel mounted pressure washers and wastewater collection pads.
• Comfortable working with privately‑owned watercrafts and using high pressure hot water to decontaminate them (3000 psi, 140° Fahrenheit).
• Experience operating gasoline powered motorized equipment, e.g., lawnmowers, snow blowers, all‑terrain vehicles, and similar items is preferred but not required.

To Apply

Applicants should complete the online application at www.paulsmiths.edu/ and submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references.

Paul Smith’s College is an equal opportunity employer. Position descriptions are created that focus on essential functions, using inclusive language, and avoid unnecessary or discriminatory requirements.