Plant Survey Crew

Watershed Friends

Opening posted: 02/09/2026 | Expires: 03/17/2026

Watershed Friends was founded in 2001 as a citizen grass−roots effort to assist in the protection of local water quality. Within the 217-square-mile area of the Cobbosseecontee Watershed, there are 28 major lakes, ponds, and streams; six of which are currently known to be infested with Aquatic Invasive Plants. Watershed Friends’ conservation programs aim to prevent the spread of, survey for, and manage known Aquatic Invasive Plants within the Cobbosseecontee Watershed.

Watershed Friends’ Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) program utilizes plant surveys to detect invasive species early and methodically, to better coordinate rapid response and management efforts. The Plant Survey crew works with the Plant Survey Coordinator, Program Manager, and Director of Conservation to survey uninfested and infested waterbodies in the Cobbosseecontee Watershed. This crew of 6 individuals uses paddle craft to perform daily surveys, weather permitting, and can expect to start work in June and end in August, with potential additional work extending into November, schedule permitting. On−the−job training is provided.

Watershed Friends is seeking a responsible and team−oriented person to fill the position of Plant Survey crew member at $16.50/hour for approximately 25 to 35 hours/week.

Qualifications:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, particularly with the public.
Attention to detail in filling out data forms, creating reports, and following plant survey plans.
Ability to work as a team and maintain a positive and friendly attitude.
Work efficiently with the team leads and the Director of Conservation to cover priority survey locations.
Available from June to August, additional work may be available into November.

Responsibilities include:

Communicating daily with the team leads about plant survey scheduling and location.
Representing Watershed Friends in a positive and friendly manner at all times.
Submitting survey data as a team and helping to promote the work done by the team.
Assisting with the maintenance and cleaning of daily equipment.
Fulfilling other duties as assigned to further the mission of Watershed Friends.

Additional skills:

Familiarity with paddle craft and safe practices on water.
Familiarity/interest with botany and/or plant identification, aquatic species a bonus.
High energy level with a positive attitude.
Knowledge of/interest in environmental issues, with a focus on watershed ecology and invasive species.
The ability to assist with launching and prepping boats safely while following Clean, Drain, Dry protocols is a plus.

To Apply: Please send a resume, cover letter, and three references to: Jennifer Peasnall, Director of Conservation, or Watershed Friends, PO Box 206, East Winthrop, Maine, 04343

For more information, check out our website: www.watershedfriends.org