South Shore and Cape Cod MRIP Recreational Fisheries Technician Job New Bedford area,Massachusetts USA,Outdoor/Nature/Animal Care

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South Shore and Cape Cod MRIP Recreational Fisheries Technician (260000CP)

Overview

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is the state agency responsible for conservation of the state's natural resources and provides outdoor recreation opportunities. The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and to create a clean energy future for all residents. This role supports MRIP (Marine Recreational Information Program) surveys to estimate recreational fisheries catch for Massachusetts waters.

Job Description

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 MRIP, a federal survey designed by the National Marine Fisheries Service. The survey is implemented by all Atlantic coastal states.

The incumbent will travel from home to assigned sites on Cape Cod and the South Shore to interview anglers, collect a variety of information, and identify, weigh, and measure fish. Assigned fishing sites include beaches, banks, piers, docks, jetties, marinas, boat ramps, and other entry points to marine or estuarine waters. Head boat sampling occurs at sea; most positions operate from shore.

The data support management of fish stocks and recreational fisheries. The incumbent may assist other MA DMF program personnel with additional projects as needed.

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: Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Outgoing and engaging personality. Comfortable approaching and speaking with recreational anglers to obtain interviews.

Flexible availability and willingness to work outside normal office hours due to tidal cycles, vessel schedules, and survey times. Ability to work 6-hour shifts: 8am–2pm, 2pm–8pm, and 11am–5pm. Willingness to work weekends and holidays (Friday counted as weekend). Ability 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.

Remarks and

Special Requirements

Must pass a survey procedures test and fish identification test following training, with at least 90% accuracy. This position requires weekend/holiday work 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 of residence. Must have access to a reliable personal vehicle to get to and from survey assignments. Paid mileage.

Employee Information

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


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