Protected Species Gear Specialist (Aquatic Biologist II)

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 Protected Species Gear Specialist (Aquatic Biologist II) to support the DMF in the following activities.
DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

1. Coordinates and implements field work related to ropeless gear research. Works with fishing industry and government agency partners to field test experimental fishing gear.
2. Assists with development of research on technology and methods to reduce the risk of entanglement and injury to Protected Species.
3. Enters, performs quality control, and maintains data collected in support of DMF research activities.
4. Conducts outreach with commercial fishing industry to provide information on new technology and alternative fishing strategies that reduce the risk of entanglement of marine Protected Species. Provides information on methods of successful implementation, including ropeless fishing and weak rope technology.
5. Assists Invertebrate Fisheries Program with lobster sea sampling in the Outer Cape Cod region.
6. Assists Protected Species Project with additional tasks as necessary to maintain a comprehensive marine Protected Species program.
7. Supports DMF programs by acting as vessel captain for DMF vessels
8. Represents DMF at meetings with other state, federal, industry, public, and professional groups related to fishing gear technology and marine Protected Species conservation.
9. Writes technical and non-technical letters, memoranda, and reports. Prepares graphical representations of data for inclusion in reports and publications.
10. Assist other MADMF projects with conducting research when time permits.

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

1. Thorough knowledge of lobster fishery and other trap/pot fisheries and fishing gear.
2. Significant ability to effectively manage concurrent program needs within defined timelines.
3. Considerable ability to communicate effectively with members of the commercial fishing community.
4. Demonstrated ability to implement marine research projects and to work on or from all manner of vessels.
5. Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds safely.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :

1. Applicants must have at least four years of full-time or equivalent part-time, professional or technical experience in marine biology, fisheries science, or fisheries management work.
2. Thorough knowledge of large whale and sea turtle life history and ecology is preferred.
3. General knowledge of the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act is preferred.
4. U.S. Coastguard OUPV License.

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.
Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Applicants must have at least (A) three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, para-professional or technical experience in marine biology or fisheries management work, of which (B) at least one year must have been in a professional capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. A Bachelor's degree with a major in marine, fisheries or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science or oceanography may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience.*
II. A Graduate degree with a major in marine, fisheries or, fisheries or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science or oceanography may be substituted for one year of the required (A) 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.
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.