A scenic image of Connecticut boaters practicing safe boating under CT DEEP guidelines, showcasing education, certification, and responsible waterway use. What Is the CT DEEP Student Ambassador Program? The CT DEEP Student Ambassador Program empowers students to promote safe boating and environmental awareness in their communities. Participants earn their Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation and complete a research project. They also present their findings publicly, gaining valuable communication experience. Because the program offers school credit, it supports both academic and civic growth. Program Benefits and Goals Students develop leadership skills while advocating for responsible boating practices. They also learn about Connecticut’s natural resources and environmental policies. Through hands-on projects, ambassadors engage with local communities. As a result, they build confidence and inspire others to boat safely and sustainably. How to Participate Eligible students apply through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Once accepted, they receive guidance from DEEP staff and complete their projects during the boating season. Although the program is competitive, it remains accessible to motivated students statewide. Interested applicants should contact DEEP for upcoming opportunities. Why the CT DEEP Student Ambassador Program Matters The CT DEEP Student Ambassador Program fosters environmental stewardship and boating safety. It prepares students for future leadership roles. Understanding the CT DEEP Student Ambassador Program helps families and educators support youth involvement in conservation. Learn more at CT DEEP Boating. What Is the CT DEEP Water Skiing Endorsement? The CT DEEP Water Skiing Endorsement is required to tow skiers, tubes, or wake riders on Connecticut waters. Operators must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid boating certificate or Coast Guard license. Because safety matters, this endorsement ensures proper training and legal compliance. How to Earn the Endorsement Boaters can complete an online course and exam through the CT DEEP portal. After passing, the endorsement prints automatically with your boating certificate. Therefore, planning ahead helps avoid delays. Who Needs It? Anyone towing on Connecticut waters must have the CT DEEP Water Skiing Endorsement, unless grandfathered before October 1, 2015. Reciprocity applies to certificates from NY, RI, MA, and NH. Why the CT DEEP Water Skiing Endorsement Matters Understanding the CT DEEP Water Skiing Endorsement helps boaters stay compliant and protect passengers. Staying informed ensures safe, legal, and enjoyable water sports experiences. CT DEEP Clean Marina Program in Action The CT DEEP Clean Marina Program promotes pollution prevention at certified marinas across Connecticut. This image shows a marina displaying its Clean Marina certification flag. Staff are using spill kits, recycling stations, and pumpout facilities. Because environmental stewardship matters, the marina follows best practices for waste disposal and fueling. Sustainable Operations Operators in the image maintain boats responsibly, avoiding toxic cleaners and hazardous materials. They also educate boaters about clean boating habits. As a result, water quality improves. Why It Matters The CT DEEP Clean Marina Program protects Long Island Sound and other vital ecosystems. Therefore, certified marinas lead by example. Join the CT DEEP Clean Marina Program Understanding the CT DEEP Clean Marina Program helps boaters choose eco-friendly facilities. Learn more at CT DEEP Clean Marina Connecticut Boaters Education: Your First Step Toward Safe Boating Connecticut Boaters Education helps new and experienced boaters navigate state waters safely and legally. Whether you're cruising Long Island Sound or exploring inland lakes, proper training matters. This education ensures you understand local laws, safety procedures, and environmental responsibilities. With certified instruction, boaters gain confidence and avoid costly mistakes. Start your journey with a trusted course that meets Connecticut’s legal requirements. Clean Marina Program is another CT DEEP initiative More about CT DEEP Slalom Course & Jump Permit Application, Boating Accident Report, CT Boaters Guide, CT DEEP Safe Waterski Endorsement, CT DEEP Abandoned Boats, CT DEEP AIS Stamps FAQ, CT DEEP Boat Launches, CT Boaters Guide Pick Up Locations, CT DEEP Weather Tides Streamflows, CT DEEP Pump-out Facilities, CT DEEP Hull Identification Numbers, CT DEEP VHF Radio Basics, CT DEEP AIS Stamp FAQs, CT DEEP "If Found Sticker", CT DEEP Paddling in Connecticut, CT DEEP Paddle-craft Rental, CT DEEP Paddle Craft Rental, CT DEEP Rivers and Streams, Purchase Fishing License, CT DEEP Pier Fishing, CT DEEP's Boating Division, CT DEEP DUI BUI, CT DEEP Transient Boaters, CT DEEP Online Sportsman, DEEP Conserving Brook Trout, DEEP Conserving Brook Trout initiative, CT DEEP Boating Incidents, CT DEEP Forms & Publications, CT DEEP Pumpout Facilities, CT DEEP March Job Fair, CT DEEP March Job Fair,

CT DEEP March Job Fair

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Curious about seasonal opportunities with Connecticut State Parks and outdoor programs? The CT DEEP March Job Fair brings hiring managers, rangers, boating educators, and park staff together to meet candidates in person and discuss roles across the state. You can attend on Sunday, March 15, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Black Rock State Park’s Western District Headquarters, 2065 Thomaston Rd., Watertown, CT 06795. Walk‑ins are welcome throughout the event window.

Looking for concrete reasons to show up? The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is recruiting for hundreds of seasonal positions spanning outdoor recreation, conservation, forestry, scientific research, and law enforcement. These positions are located statewide at parks, forests, boat launches, field offices, and indoor education centers.

Plenty of park-based roles at the CT DEEP March Job Fair

Moreover, the agency highlights a wide range of park‑based roles—maintainers, campground office staff, ticket booth attendants, park rangers, and interpretive guides/educators—with many assignments centered on the busy spring‑to‑fall season. Hiring managers will be on site from the Parks, Boating, and Environmental Conservation Police divisions to answer questions and describe day‑to‑day responsibilities.

Today’s applicants want clarity on pay and timing. Most seasonal positions start at $16.94/hour, while lifeguard roles start at $20.00/hour due to higher training requirements. Typically, the peak season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some opportunities extending before and after those dates based on operational needs. Weekend and holiday availability is often required because public demand is highest then.

Next, consider how to apply efficiently. DEEP and other CT state agencies use a paperless Online Employment Center, where candidates create a Master Application to reuse for multiple openings and receive email updates on application status. No mailed, emailed, or faxed resumes are accepted, and staff can help you start your application at the event.

Additionally, the CT DEEP March Job Fair emphasizes career pathways. Seasonal roles offer hands‑on experience, on‑the‑job training, and exposure to environmental stewardship, which can open the door to full‑time or advanced seasonal positions in future years. Agency leadership regularly underscores that seasonal work helps build practical skills and serves as a launchpad for careers in conservation and public service.

Why Attend the CT DEEP March Job Fair

First, you can speak directly with hiring managers from Parks, Boating, and Environmental Conservation Police, and get immediate answers about schedules, required certifications, and site assignments. Second, you can compare roles—like boating education assistants, boat launch maintainers, lifeguards, ticket booth attendants, campground staff, and interpretive guides—to find the best match for your skills and availability. Third, you can start your application on site and learn how to optimize your Master Application for multiple postings.

What to Bring and How to Prepare for the CT DEEP March Job Fair

Arrive with a photo ID, a concise list of prior employers, relevant certifications (for example, lifeguard credentials), and availability for weekends and holidays. Create or update your profile in the state’s Online Employment Center before you go, and then bookmark postings that align with your preferred work locations such as Black Rock, Lake Waramaug, or other Western District parks where needs often run higher. Finally, prepare a few targeted questions for the Parks and Boating teams to demonstrate your readiness for spring onboarding.

Because competition increases closer to Memorial Day, early applicants often see more options across parks and program areas. You improve your chances by arriving early in the day, speaking with multiple divisions, and signaling flexibility for shifts that cover weekends and peak summer holidays. Consequently, you can secure a role that fits your schedule while supporting public access to trails, beaches, launches, and education centers.

Details for the Fair

Event details remain straightforward. The job fair runs 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. on March 15, 2026, and it takes place at Black Rock State Park’s Western District Headquarters in Watertown. You can drop in anytime during those hours to connect with staff, get role descriptions, and receive help starting your application. Parking and wayfinding follow the main entrance signage for the district headquarters building.

Prospective lifeguards will want to confirm training windows and assignment locations, since those postings carry higher hourly rates and specific certification steps. Meanwhile, candidates interested in boating or fisheries support should ask about boat launch operations, pumpout programs, education support, or trout stocking logistics that require reliable weekend coverage. With so many roles across the state, the agency can match varying skill sets to public‑facing or field‑based duties. [portal.ct.gov]

Ready to move from interest to action? Visit the DEEP Employment page to browse open seasonal postings and set up your Master Application before the fair, then use the event to confirm fit and timelines with hiring teams. After you speak with staff, submit your applications the same day to get into the early spring selection pool.

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