Nature of Work
We need your help to protect our lakes from the spread of aquatic invasive species! Apply today to join our AIS Prevention Program team!
Seasonal Positions are available in the Public Works Aquatic Invasive Species Program. Length of season will vary depending on position but will fall within the 2025 season. These positions are open until filled and may be closed at any time.
The Public Works Department currently has several vacancies for the 2025 Aquatic Invasive Species season:
6-month seasonal: 12 positions (4/14/2025 - 10/11/2025)
3-month seasonal: 3 positions (6/16/2025 - 10/11/2025)
This position is required to work a varied schedule at multiple sites including weekends, holidays, early mornings and evenings.
This program is staffed 7 days per week from the 4th Saturday in April through the end of September (5am - 9pm). Training for the 6-month season begins on April 14, 2025.
Salary Information:
This position will start at Step 1 ($21.70/hour). Employees receive step increases on completion of 2080 hours in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. The full salary range for this position is $21.70 - $26.53/hour.
Benefits Information:
At the City of Bellingham, we offer the following benefits that help you thrive in both your career and personal life.
Benefit Information:
Three-Month Seasonal Positions:
Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
1 hour of Washington State paid sick leave accrued for every 40 hours worked.
This position is not eligible for benefits, except as required by law.
Six-Month Seasonal Positions:
1 hour of Washington State paid sick leave accrued for every 40 hours worked
Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security
Upon union eligibility, paid holidays during employment period
This position is not eligible for benefits, except as required by law.
This position becomes represented by the Local 1937 bargaining unit after the completion of 1040 hours working an average of at least 12 hours per week, on an annual basis. You can find more details on our employment benefits page and labor agreements page.
NATURE OF WORK:
This position fulfills seasonal Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Program objectives by providing education and watercraft inspection and basic decontamination services to recreational boaters. The position will interact with members of the public, collect and track survey information, provide boat inspection and decontamination training and communicate with other state and local government staff.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:
Provides information to the public on aquatic invasive species prevention and management activities.
Performs detailed watercraft inspections and basic decontaminations for the prevention of the spread and establishment of aquatic invasive species in Lake Whatcom, Lake Samish and other area lakes.
Conducts vessel history surveys with recreational boaters.
Maintains accurate and detailed records of work performed.
Collects permit fees and maintains accurate sale and receipt records for each shift.
Inputs vessel, inspection and permit data using smart phones in the field.
Communicates logistical needs to Supervisor.
Provides written and verbal reports as requested.
Represents the Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Program at various educational booth exhibits, displays and fairs.
Maintains a professional presence and demeanor at all times.
ADDITIONAL DUTIES:
Performs other tasks and related duties as assigned.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed primarily outdoors near water bodies at both rural and urban locations for the duration of seasonal employment. Involves working independently outdoors for long hours in all types of weather. Stands or walks for extended periods of time over rough terrain when performing inspections and conducting vessel screening surveys. Some exposure to conditions such as dust, fumes, noise or odors may occur. Work is intermittently performed in an office setting which may require prolonged periods of sitting. Requires flexible working hours; including evenings, weekends and holidays. Employees are required to wear personal protective equipment, use appropriate safety equipment and follow standard safety practices.
Physical ability to perform the essential functions of the job including:
Stand for long periods of time during inclement hot and cold weather
Bend, squat, climb and reach on a frequent basis to inspect all internal compartments and surfaces of boats and trailers
Fine finger dexterity to manipulate computer keyboard, mouse and inspection equipment
Travel on foot to remote areas with uneven ground
Travel and movement on a boat
Collect and input monitoring and inspection data during inclement weather, and
Occasionally lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
Experience and Training
Experience working with the public on a daily basis in public outreach, customer service or similar.
Course work in environmental science or knowledge of lake aquatic ecology preferred.
Experience working with watercraft or basic knowledge of watercraft design and operation preferred.
High level of comfort using smart phones to collect and process data preferred.
An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to provide the applicant with the knowledge, skills and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the job will be considered.
Necessary Special Requirements
Valid Washington State driver's license and satisfactory driving record. Must provide a three-year driver's abstract prior to hire.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Employment contingent upon passing a criminal background check and child and vulnerable adult abuse records check (See Fair Hiring Practices).
Verification of ability to work in the United States by date of hire.
To apply online go to: http://www.cob.org/employment
