South Shore and Cape Cod MRIP Recreational Fisheries Technician

Who We Are

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts' environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Who We Are as an Employer

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

DFG

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is the state agency responsible for conservation of the state's natural resources. DFG exercises responsibility over the Commonwealth's marine and freshwater fisheries, wildlife, plants, and natural communities, and provides outdoor recreation opportunities to the public.

Job Description

A cover letter and resume must be submitted as part of the application process and attached "as relevant" to the requisition.

Job Opening

The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) seeks applicants for the position of Seasonal Fisheries Technician who will assist DMF personnel with implementing the recreational fisheries survey from April to November. 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 travelling from home to assigned sites on Cape Cod and the South Shore 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 (most positions will operate only from shore). The estimates generated from this work are critically important for managing fish stocks and sustaining recreational fisheries. The incumbent may 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: 8am-2pm, 2pm-8pm, and 11am—5pm. 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.

CRITICAL NOTE

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's 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.

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.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

Equal Opportunity Statement

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.