Position Description
La Crosse Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator will serve the La Crosse Area Partnership in La
Crosse, Buffalo and Trempealeau counties. The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Coordinator
is responsible for implementing a coordinated strategy, relevant programs, and effective
partnerships for preventing and controlling the spread of aquatic invasive species. The AIS
Coordinator will create and maintain an active network of partners who participate in AIS
prevention and control.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Coordinate the La Crosse Area Partnership maintaining an open dialogue amongst partners,
recruiting new partners and facilitating opportunities to partner in outreach, monitoring and
control.
Coordinate an annual pubic meeting to provide project updates and offer opportunity for
public participation.
Educate bait dealers and engage their customers through implementing the Bait Dealer
Initiative utilizing the WDNR Bait Dealer Toolkit.
Coordinate Landing Blitz efforts educating boaters on the Mississippi in partnership with the
WDNR
Install new State AIS signs (rev.2010) and Asian Carp Watch signs at boat landings
Increase outreach to fishing tournament participants on the Mississippi River
Clean Boats, Clean Waters: Recruit and train local partners to conduct watercraft inspections
and monitor for invasive species at the landings. Ensure complete and accurate data
reporting to WDNR. Hire and manage two interns to supplement volunteer data.
Project Riverine Early Detectors: Recruit and train volunteers to assist in monitoring major
tributaries of the Mississippi River below first dam for invasive species of interest. Work
with local groups to ensure complete and accurate data reporting to WDNR.
Monitoring: Coordinate citizen, university and agency monitoring efforts to encourage
efficiency and data sharing. Assist the Wisconsin DNR to conduct monitoring when needed
and assist other federal and state agency employees with vegetation surveys on the Upper
Mississippi River.
Statewide AIS Coordinator network: Participate in statewide network of county AIS
coordinators, including semi-annual meetings, email listserv, and other training/networking
forums. Maintain communication with statewide AIS Education Specialist.
CANDIDATES SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND
ABILITIES:
Able to self-start and to work independently without close supervision
Able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences orally and in writing
Basic computer skills, including word processing and spreadsheets
Staff supervisory experience
Organized and self-directed
Able to develop outreach materials
Able to work cooperatively with other county, regional and state AIS coordinators
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a natural resources field.
One or more years of relevant work experience.
Demonstrated experience in building networks and coordinating projects with multiple
stakeholders.
Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative attitude.
Willingness to travel throughout tri-county area and attend evening and weekend events.
Valid driver’s license
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Master’s degree, preferably in a natural resources field.
Familiarity with aquatic invasive species and local land and water conservation issues
preferred
Familiarity with the Upper Mississippi River
This position is 100% time and is based in La Crosse, WI. Salary commensurate with
experience. Position includes a comprehensive benefits package, an energetic work
environment, and the chance to associate with board members and staff who are passionate
about and committed to healthy rivers.
Please submit letter of interest, resume, 3 references, and a short writing sample to: AIS
Coordinator Search, Attn: Laura MacFarland, River Alliance of Wisconsin, 107 Sutliff Ave.,
Rhinelander, WI 54501. Applications may also be submitted via e-mail to
lmacfarland@wisconsinrivers.org. No calls, please. Application deadline is November
15, 2013. The River Alliance of Wisconsin is an equal opportunity employer.
www.wisconsinrivers.org