2023 Employment Opportunities

Updated January 26, 2023

Boat Stewards (Seasonal)  

The Chautauqua Lake Association (CLA) is seeking qualified individuals to work as Boat Stewards for a regional spread prevention program across Chautauqua County (locations include Chautauqua Lake, Cassadaga Lake and Lake Erie). Stewards will gather data and inspect boats for aquatic invasive species as part of an early detection/rapid response spread prevention effort. Stewards also educate boaters and visitors about aquatic invasive species (AIS) and how the general public can help slow the spread of AIS. This is part of a statewide Clean, Drain, Dry spread prevention and awareness program. 

Boat Stewards interact with the public at (7) boat launches around Chautauqua Lake, Cassadaga and (2) launches on Lake Erie. They perform voluntary boat inspections and remove visible aquatic plants or animals from all types of watercrafts. Removal of aquatic plants and animals help to prevent the transport and spread of aquatic invasive species. Boat Stewards are also responsible for public education and distribution of educational materials.

Boat Stewards will be assigned to a primary launch, however there is the potential for coverage needs to require occasional travel to other launches. Weekend work is required (Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday). Position will be approximately 32 hours per week for 12-16 weeks. All necessary supplies will be provided.  Stewards will be required to provide their own transportation to/from launch sites and ability to transport work related material. Stewards will receive training prior to beginning work at their assigned sites.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct voluntary watercraft inspections at assigned boat launches.
• Collect survey data using provided data collection tools (iPad).
• Ensure data collected is accurate and complete, and uploaded as required.
• Public outreach and education; distribute informative materials.
• Communicate effectively with lake users and supervisor
• Maintain supplies and equipment.

Qualifications

• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interact with the public in a professional and respectful manner.
• Ability to work independently and in potentially inclimate weather.
• Experience with or basic knowledge of aquatic plants and the local fishery.
• Strong interest in invasive species management and ecology.
• Driver’s license and reliable transportation to and from launch locations. 

Locations

• Bemus Point Launch
• Celoron Park Launch
• Lakewood Launch 
• Long Point State Park Launch
• McCrea Park Launch
• Mayville Village Park Launch
• Prendergast Launch
• Casssadaga Lake Launch
• Barcelona Harbor Launch, Lake Erie
• Dunkirk Harbor Launch, Lake Erie

Travel Requirements

Use of personal vehicle (such as a car or truck) is required for travel to/from launch and must remain on site with the Boat Steward. Boat Stewards will be expected to travel to assigned boat launches and travel between ‘home’ and ‘work’ will be considered their commute.

Job Details

This is a seasonal position with an expected timeframe of mid-May – September (Memorial Day – Labor Day), with the possibility of extended season if weather permits. Weekends and Holidays are required.

The deadline for applications is May 12, 2023. 

In-Lake Operators (Seasonal)

• Must be 18 to operate our equipment.
• Will be trained on multiple harvesters, skimmer and/or transport.
• Typical work week is Monday – Friday, 7am-3:30pm with possible overtime.

Near Shore / Barge Crew  (Seasonal)

• Will travel the lake’s perimeter on a work barge. 
• Will be responsible for cleaning the shoreline and near shore areas. 
• Pitchforks and rakes will be provided.
• Typical work week is Monday – Friday, 7am-3:30pm with possible overtime.

Supervisor  (Seasonal)

• Must be 18. Will supervise from in-lake equipment or via CLA small truck.
• Must work well with others and be accountable.
• Will be responsible for picking up roadside weeds weekly.
• Typical work week is Monday – Friday, 7am-3:30pm with possible overtime.

Or, you may complete the application below and return via email or postal mail to:
Heather Nolan-Caskey,
Chautauqua Lake Association, Inc.
429 East Terrace Avenue
Lakewood, NY 14750

Download CLA_Application

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