If you grew up on the Caloosahatchee — fishing it, swimming it, boating it — you already know something most people have to learn from a textbook. We want that knowledge on our team.
Sea & Shoreline restores Florida’s aquatic ecosystems, and we’re bringing that work to Southwest Florida. This role is for someone who is at home on the water, knows how to keep equipment running, and genuinely cares about what happens to this river.
What You’ll Do
- Get in the water — daily. Plant seagrass and aquatic vegetation, support habitat restoration, and do the hands-on work that makes a real difference in the Caloosahatchee
- Trailer and operate boats to access project sites — you know your way around a ramp and a vessel, and building trust with your team in how you operate
- Help drive and operate boats on the water alongside the project team — comfort and situational awareness on the water is essential
- Keep equipment running in the field — basic mechanical troubleshooting, routine maintenance, knowing what you can fix on the spot, and when to call it in
- Support biologists and project leads with field tasks, data collection, and site setup/breakdown
- Follow safety protocols every time — on the boat, in the water, on the job site
- Adapt when things shift — weather, tides, gear, schedules. You stay focused and find a way
What We’re Looking For
This is not a desk job, and it’s not a casual outdoor gig. We’re looking for someone who is water-native, mechanically capable, and genuinely invested in Southwest Florida’s waterways.
- Comfortable trailering and operating boats — you will be core to getting us where we need to be to work
- Strong swimmer — you will be in the water in variable conditions, including low visibility
- Hands-on mechanical ability — you can troubleshoot a problem, handle basic maintenance, and know when something needs a professional
- Physically capable of full days outdoors in Florida heat and humidity; able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs
- Familiar with the Caloosahatchee or Southwest Florida waterways — someone who grew up here and knows these waters has a real edge
- Interest in marine biology, aquatic restoration, or marine construction — formal education not required, but curiosity and care about the work absolutely are
- Reliable, shows up on time, and has their crew’s back
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
Bonus Points
- Fishing, boating, or diving experience on the Caloosahatchee, Charlotte Harbor, or surrounding waters
- SCUBA certification or interest in getting certified
- Any coursework or hands-on experience in biology, marine science, or environmental work
- Boating Safety Certificate or USCG operator experience
- CPR / First Aid / AED certification (or willingness to get certified — we’ll help)
- Experience with outboard or diesel engine maintenance
The Work
This role is based in Fort Myers and centered on the Caloosahatchee River. You’ll work alongside biologists, environmental advisors, and field crews doing restoration work that matters for this community and this ecosystem. Local candidates strongly preferred — we want people who know and care about this river.
Mileage and per diem are covered for any travel. Reliable transportation is required.
What You’ll Get
- $20/hr with overtime opportunity
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off, holidays, and disability insurance
- Mileage reimbursement and per diem for field travel
- On-the-job training and real mentorship from experienced biologists and restoration specialists
- A front-row seat to meaningful environmental work in your own backyard
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screen. Sea & Shoreline is an equal opportunity employer.
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have experience trailering boats?
Work Location: In person
