Job Description

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 serves Massachusetts\xe2\x80\x99 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 Seasonal Recreational Fisheries MRIP Samplers (Contracted Seasonal Employee).

A cover letter and resume must be submitted as part of the application process and attached \xe2\x80\x9cas relevant\xe2\x80\x9d to the requisition.

The Seasonal Fisheries technician will assist MADMF program personnel with implementing the recreational fisheries survey from March to December. The Access Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS) is part of the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), a federal survey designed by the National Marine Fisheries Service. The survey is implemented by all Atlantic coastal states. The goal of the survey is to generate estimates of recreational fisheries catch for marine fish species in Massachusetts waters. Field staff, once trained, work independently traveling from home to assigned assigned sites to interview anglers about their fishing experiences, collect a variety of information, and identify, weigh, and measure fish that anglers have kept. Assigned fishing sites include beaches, banks, piers, docks, jetties, and access points for private, charter, and head boats, including marinas, boat ramps and other points of entry to marine or estuarine waters. Head boat sampling occurs at sea. The estimates generated from this work are critically important for managing fish stocks and sustaining recreational fisheries. The incumbent will assist other MA DMF Program personnel with additional projects as needed.

DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Successfully complete training and pass both a survey procedures test and fish identification test.

• Survey recreational anglers and collect catch information including counts, measurements, and weights of fish both harvested and released.
• Begin and end each 6-hour assignment on time.
• Accurately record detailed data on electronic field tablets and data sheets.
• Perform rigorous data review for quality control.
• Complete, organize, and submit data and reports to supervisors in a timely manner.
• Distribute outreach material while interacting with the angling public in the field.
• Operate a motor vehicle to perform duties.
• Assist other MADMF projects with conducting research when time permits.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE (List knowledges, skills, abilities): * Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Outgoing and engaging personality. Individuals should be comfortable approaching and speaking with recreational anglers to obtain interviews.

• Must have flexible availability and willing to work outside normal office hours (longer, earlier, later) due to tidal cycles, vessel schedules, and survey times. Ability to work any of the following 6-hr survey times: 2am-8am, 8am-2pm, 2pm-8pm, 8pm-2am, 11am\xe2\x80\x945pm. Most assignments occur from 8am to 8pm. Ability to work regularly on weekends and holidays (Friday is considered a weekend day). Qualified candidates must be able to work at least 16 hours each weekend.
• Basic understanding of computer applications, the internet, and electronic touch-screen tablets.
• Ability to work under challenging field and weather conditions: wind, rain, heat, and cold.
• Ability to lift heavy fish specimens, both alive and dead.
• Ability to work well independently and solve problems in the field.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: * Knowledge and familiarity with marine recreational fishing and fish species is a plus, but not required.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT AND SUBSTITUTIONS: High school diploma or GED equivalent.

REMARKS:

Must pass a survey procedures test and fish identification test following training, with at least 90% accuracy. This position will require work on weekends, holidays and long hours. Fisheries Surveyors will work primarily in the field from their home. This is a seasonal contract position. Mileage is paid for all travel to and from sites. No benefits are included - except earned sick leave.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator\xe2\x80\x99s Class D license or equivalent license from the state in which you reside. Must have access to a reliable personal vehicle to get to and from survey assignments. Paid mileage.

Duration of Position: 16 - 30 weeks

Start Date: On or after March 1, 2023

End Date: December 31, 2023

Qualifications

See Job description for qualifications.

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

Massachusetts Trial Court