Fisheries Habitat Field Technician

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 two Fisheries Habitat Field Technician (contracted seasonal employee) positions to support the DMF in the following activities.
The Seasonal Fisheries Habitat Field Technician will primarily assist with field work associated with eelgrass (Zostera marina) flowering phenology and seed production. Other duties include filing paperwork and logging survey data in a database.
DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Collect, record, and process biological information on seagrass flowers and seeds while wading or snorkeling from shore.
2. Assist with planning and coordinating field work including reserving vehicles and reading marine weather forecasts.
3. Operate and maintain field equipment including sampling equipment and motor vehicles.
4. Collect and process water quality data.
5. Process data including data entry for computer analysis.
6. Assist other MADMF projects with conducting research and field sampling as needed and when time permits.
7. Demonstrate professionalism in words and actions and perform other duties as assigned.

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

1. Ability to work in wet and cold environments.
2. Ability to comfortably swim 400 yards without swimming aids.
3. Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
4. Ability to follow guidelines, protocols, and procedures.
5. Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate field sampling trips. Job may require some longer/earlier/later than normal workdays.
6. Experience filling data forms in the field and compiling data in tabular and graphical form.
7. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Hold Free Diving and/or SCUBA certification from a nationally recognized certification agency (PADI, NAUI, SDI, SSI, PFI etc.). Hires will be required to complete the DMF snorkel training process and associated medical screening.
2. Hold current certifications of training in CPR, First Aid, and Oxygen Administration.
3. Knowledge of basic diving safety and equipment protocols in a scientific or professional capacity.
4. Knowledge of seagrass biology and experience in working with seagrass in field environments.
5. Ability to prioritize, follow-through and complete tasks.
6. One to two years of full-time or equivalent part-time technical experience or training in marine biology or fisheries work, fisheries, or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science, ecology, or oceanography.

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.
This is a 22 week position with an expected start date of March 24, 2024. There are two positions for this posting.
Qualifications:
Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's Class D license or equivalent license from the state in which you reside.
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.