Seasonal - Shellfish Classification Assistant

The 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.

The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries seeks qualified applicants for a Fisheries Technician (Contracted Seasonal Employee).

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 as relevant to the requisition for which you are applying.

The Seasonal Fisheries Technician assists in the operations of Division of Marine Fisheries Shellfish Program in New Bedford MA. Mitigation funds provide enhanced classification in the Plymouth-Duxbury Kingston complex involving bacteriological water sampling, sanitary classification, monitoring of shellfish growing areas, monitoring shellfish restoration activities in Buzzards Bay and data entry. The incumbent will assist various other projects/programs as required .

DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assists staff biologists in planning and conducting field investigations leading to the classification of shellfish growing areas, including collection of water quality data, shoreline surveys to identify contamination sources, and sanitary surveys in support of classification decisions.

Assists staff biologists conduct field activities associated with two multi-year shellfish mitigation projects. Work will include site selection surveys, pre-seeding and post-seeding surveys and planting quahogs and oysters.

Operates and maintains field equipment including specialized environmental data recording instruments, sampling gear, and motor vehicles, including small boats and trailers.

Operates, with training, small craft as top person for SCUBA divers.

Records and organizes data, including computer coding and data entry for computer analysis.

Assists other shellfish program biologists and Marine Fisheries projects as assigned and as time allows in the conduct of field work, surveys and related activities .

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

Knowledge of shellfish biology and management.

Ability to identify marine fish and invertebrates common in Massachusetts' coastal waters.

Knowledge of bacteriological sampling and testing.

Knowledge of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP).

Ability to communicate effectively.

Ability to write concisely, express thoughts clearly and develop ideas in a logical sequence

Ability to prepare documents and reports accurately, including the ability to prepare and use charts, graphs and tables.

Ability to follow guidelines and procedures.

Ability to multi-task and prioritize .

Knowledge of computer software applications including Microsoft Office Suite.

Experience filling data forms in the field and compiling data in tabular and graphical form.

Ability to work some weekends, early mornings and evenings as needed

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience collecting data in the field.

Familiarity with sampling gear commonly employed in the field of fisheries science and associated disciplines.

Ability to navigate and operate small boats.

Working knowledge of computer word processing and spreadsheet software including MSWORD and EXCEL and familiarity databases (e.g. ACCESS, Oracle) .

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants should have at least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, para-professional or technical experience in marine biology or fisheries management work.
A Bachelor's or higher degree with a major in marine or fisheries biology, marine science, or oceanography may be substituted for the required experience.

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 seasonal position, no benefits included - except earned sick leave. The start date for the position is July 1, 2022 through February 28, 2023 ~ 34 weeks.

1 Position: # 00053932

Qualifications:
Executive Order #595: As a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.