Aquatic Invasive Species Diver

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ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identifies invasive aquatic plant species under varying underwater conditions including limited visibility and dense vegetation.

• Executes Diver-Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) and hand-harvesting techniques in accordance with established operational protocols.

• Removes invasive aquatic vegetation as directed by the Dive Leader or Program Supervisor.

• Assists with the collection containment handling and proper disposal of removed aquatic vegetation.

• Maintains accurate dive logs vegetation removal data and required field documentation.

• Conducts pre-dive safety checks and adheres to all approved dive plans and safety standards.

• Assists with the setup operation breakdown cleaning and disinfection of dive boats surface-supplied air systems and associated equipment.

• Supports routine maintenance and inspection of diving and harvesting equipment.

• Participates in team briefings debriefings and safety meetings.

• Performs other duties as assigned in support of the Boulder Reservoir Aquatic Invasive Species Program.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to actively listen and follow established dive and safety protocols.

• Ability to communicate effectively as part of a coordinated dive team.

• Ability to maintain detailed and accurate field documentation and dive logs.

• Knowledge of basic dive safety principles and emergency procedures.

• Skill in operating SCUBA or surface-supplied air dive equipment safely and effectively.

• Must hold and maintain a valid drivers license.

• Must successfully pass a background check before first day of work and maintain acceptable screening.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to positively identify aquatic plant species including Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM).

• Knowledge of aquatic invasive species management practices and environmental stewardship principles.

• Knowledge of Diver-Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) systems and protocols.

• Skill in small boat operations.

• Skill in maintaining dive equipment and mechanical systems associated with suction harvesting.

• Experience working in field-based environmental restoration aquatic management or scientific monitoring programs.

• Colorado Parks and Wildlife watercraft inspection and decontamination certification.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Open Water SCUBA Certification from a recognized certifying agency (PADI NAUI SSI or equivalent).

• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED certification from the American Red Cross or ability to obtain certification within 30 days of hire.

• No prior professional diving or aquatic plant management experience required.

SUPERVISION

Supervision Received: Program Supervisor

Supervision Exercised: None

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Physical and Mental Effort: Ability to perform repetitive SCUBA or surface-supplied air dives. Sufficient strength and stamina to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Ability to enter and exit boats and water safely while wearing full dive gear. Ability to work underwater in cold temperatures limited visibility and dense vegetation in variable weather conditions. Ability to work under stress from changing environmental conditions and operational timelines. Requires sustained focus situational awareness and adherence to safety protocols. Ability to perform physically demanding underwater work in cold water limited visibility and variable weather conditions. Ability to safely lift carry and maneuver equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to swim confidently and work underwater for extended periods.

• Work Environment: Work is performed exclusively at Boulder Reservoir in an outdoor field-based setting. Exposure to cold water aquatic vegetation sun wind and variable weather conditions. Schedule is generally full-time weekdays with occasional extended workdays based on operational needs.

• Machines and Equipment Used: SCUBA equipment surface-supplied air systems Diver-Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) systems small boats air compressors aquatic vegetation containment systems radios and related safety equipment.

As part of the City of Boulders commitment to a future with equitable access to health prosperity and fulfillment that is not limited by a persons race ethnicity age gender ability religion sexuality or socioeconomic status it is the citys policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all individuals. The city does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race color religion sex (including pregnancy gender identity and sexual orientation) national origin age disability genetic information marital status veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal state or local law or policy.