Aquatic Biologist I (Invertebrate Fisheries)

The Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game works to preserve the state's natural resources and people's right to conservation of those resources, as protected by Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution. To carry out this mission, the Department exercises responsibility over the Commonwealth's marine and freshwater fisheries, wildlife species, plants, and natural communities, as well as the habitats that support them.
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries serves Massachusetts' citizens by protecting, restoring, and enhancing fishery resources and their habitats, while providing sustainable fisheries related recreational and commercial opportunities.
*A cover letter and resume expressing your interest in this position must be submitted as part of the application process. These documents must be specifically attached to the requisition for which you are applying.
The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) seeks applicants for the position of Aquatic Biologist I. This position works on the Invertebrate Fisheries Program and participates in field and office work related to the DMF Ventless Lobster Trap Survey, commercial sea-sampling for lobster and whelk, and the Early Benthic Phase Lobster survey as well as other Invertebrate Fisheries Program monitoring and research activities, as specified below.
DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

1. Collects biological and CPUE data for American lobster and other commercially important invertebrates aboard commercial fishing vessels.
2. Records and organizes data including computer coding and data entry for computer analysis.
3. Assists the Invertebrate Fisheries Program with SCUBA-based field monitoring activities.
4. Operates small craft as top person, for divers.
5. Assists with various on-going Invertebrate Fisheries Program research and monitoring programs, both at-sea and in the laboratory.
6. Assists with summarizing and presenting biological data for the purposes of characterizing commercially important invertebrate populations in Massachusetts coastal waters.
7. Performs literature surveys of scientific journals and technical reports/memoranda.
8. Assists in preparation of technical and non-technical letters, memoranda, and reports. Prepares graphical presentations of data for inclusion in reports and publications.
9. Operates and maintains field equipment including specialized environmental data recording equipment; motor vehicles, including small craft and trailers; and sampling gear.
10. Assist other MADMF projects with conducting research when time permits.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE (List knowledges, skills, abilities) :

1. Ability to identify marine fish and invertebrates common in Massachusetts coastal water.
2. Experience collecting data on research vessels, fishing vessels and small craft.
3. Familiarity with sampling gear commonly employed in the field of fisheries science and associated disciplines.
4. Experience operating and navigating small vessels in coastal waters.
5. SCUBA certification from nationally recognized organization, and experience working as or with SCUBA divers in a scientific capacity.
6. Experience compiling data in tabular and graphical form.
7. Experience working with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access), and familiarity with database software (e.g. Oracle)
8. Ability to communicate effectively and maintain relationships with fishermen, bait dealers, other scientists, and the public.
9. Ability to work irregular schedules (including weekends) and ability to work outdoors in non-ideal conditions, sometimes in the middle of the night, and lift up to 50 lbs.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS :
Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's Class D license or equivalent license from the state in which you reside.
Possession of a current and valid Basic Open Water and Advanced Open Water SCUBA certification from a nationally recognized organization. Applicants must have a minimum of two years' experience as an active diver.
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
This position is based in New Bedford
Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, para-professional or technical experience in marine biology or fisheries management work, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. A Bachelors or higher degree with a major in marine, fisheries, or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management, marine science or oceanography may be substituted for the required experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience.*
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's license.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
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An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.