Aquatic Invasive Species Field Technician and Data Manager - Lake Leelanau Lake Association
To apply, please send a resume, cover letter, and three references to the Director of Administration and Programs and Dive Team Leader, Annalise Povolo, at annalise@lakeleelanau.org
Applications will be accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis. For consideration, please submit by March 23, 2026.
Organization Summary:
The Lake Leelanau Lake Association (LLLA) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect and enhance the quality and beauty of Lake Leelanau and its surrounding watershed for current and future generations. Since the discovery of the invasive aquatic plant, Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), LLLA has partnered with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians to monitor, control, and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in Lake Leelanau with non-chemical methods. In addition, LLLA is dedicated to monitoring the ecosystem health and fostering a community of members engaged in the stewardship of Lake Leelanau and its watershed.
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
Pay and Schedule Details:
- $25/hour, approximately 7 hours/day, 5 days/week for 11 weeks
- Regular Schedule: Start: June 8, End: August 21, Monday-Friday (weather dependent).
- Local housing options may be available, with the possibility of other work to cover room and board, and for additional pay
Position Summary:
LLLA is hiring a seasonal Field Technician and Data Manager to assist in remediating, controlling, and monitoring aquatic invasive species (AIS), specifically, Eurasian watermilfoil and Curly-leaf pondweed. The technician will assist in the planning and execution of the weekly field work plan and be responsible for supporting the day-to- day operations and data management. The technician will report to the Association’s Stewardship Coordinator and Dive Team Leader. Experience driving a boat is required, along with the relevant certifications (boater safety certificate, dependent on age). Preference will be given to those who have the potential and interest to continue in this role for multiple summers.
Responsibilities:
- Navigate the boat and crew to the work site each day.
- Ensure diver safety while working in the lake, always staying attentive to the location of the divers and keeping other boats away from them.
- Ensure the boat is equipped with the materials and equipment needed for the day’s work (as determined by the Stewardship Coordinator and Dive Team Leader) and that there is sufficient gas in the boat.
- Collect GPS data using GPS equipment and ArcGIS FieldMaps.
- Maintain a detailed log of the daily activities and update all logged activities on an online database.
- Manage GPS data and ensure GPS points and accompanying data are stored properly.
- Assist with filling SCUBA tanks and maintaining the air compressors.
- Ensure GoPro cameras are charged and ready for use each day. Upload, label, and store GoPro photos and videos appropriately.
- Ensure the GPS equipment is charged for use each day.
- Perform basic maintenance to keep the boat clean and in proper working condition, and identify any maintenance needs.
- Assist the Stewardship Coordinator in completing full lake surveys for AIS.
- Assist in maintaining the work site based on the property agreement stipulations.
Required skills, knowledge, and experience:
- Team player and self-motivated
- Leadership and project management
- Ability to lift at least 50 pounds
- Boat driving experience, with a Michigan (or reciprocal NASBLA-approved) boater safety certificate, dependent on age
- Experience working with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Ability to swim in case of a diver emergency
- Emergency Response Certification (half-day course, course fee provided by LLLA, if necessary)
- Willingness to work outside under a variety of conditions
- Highly reliable and punctual
- Excellent personal communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to organize and carry out data collection, data management, and computer database operation skills
Desired skills, knowledge, and experience:
- Lifeguard certification
- Aerial and underwater drone operation
- Comfort with troubleshooting equipment
- Passion for caring for natural resources
- Experience working in public outreach
- Background in natural sciences or ability to understand ecological concepts related to aquatic invasive species
- Knowledge of aquatic invasive species and/or experience with aquatic species identification
- To apply, please send a resume, cover letter, and three references to LLLA Director of Administration and Programs and Dive Team Leader, Annalise Povolo – annalise@lakeleelanau.org.
Applications will be accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis. For consideration, please submit by March 23, 2026.
The Lake Leelanau Lake Association is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.