MA Division of Marine Fisheries Seeking Recreational Fisheries Surveyors

Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is seeking Recreational Fisheries Surveyors for the upcoming 2019 season on the North Shore and Cape Cod. Interested individuals should apply by April 12th, however, positions remain open until filled. Fieldwork begins May 1st. A 2-day training will take place mid to late April. See job posting below. To obtain more information or apply, visit http://aisobservers.com/employment/

MA Recreational Fisheries Survey Technician

Title: Seasonal Fisheries Technician
Full-time – Part-time: Part-time (20-40 hrs. week). No benefits
Shift: Variable Day and Night
City – Town Location: Various coastal ports throughout Massachusetts. From the North shore, south to Plymouth and Bristol counties, all of Cape Cod and the Islands.
Facility Location: MA Division of Marine Fisheries – Work is field based
Region: Coastal ports in MA
Pay: $12.00 – $14.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
Application Deadline: April 12th or until filled.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

A.I.S. Inc. is contracted by the State of Massachusetts, Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) to support the collection of recreational fisheries data for the Access Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS), part of the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), a federal survey designed by the National Marine Fisheries Service. A.I.S. will provide MA DMF with fisheries technicians who carry out the recreational fisheries survey from March to December. 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 travel to 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.

DUTIES:

1. Successfully complete training. Pass both a survey procedures test and fish identification test.
2. Work with project personnel on annual survey to count, measure, and weigh fish harvested and released by recreational anglers.
3. Identify marine fish species. Fish identification guides and training provided.
4. Follow documented survey procedures. Begin and end each 6 hour assignment on time.
5. Accurately record detailed data on electronic field tablets and data sheets.
6. Perform rigorous data review for quality control.
7. Complete, organize, and submit data and reports to supervisors in a timely manner.
8. Work on weekends and holidays is required, when recreational fishing effort is highest.
9. Distribute outreach materials while interacting with the angling public in the field.

Compensation: $12.00 – $14.00 per hour commensurate with experience, plus paid mileage.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Outgoing and engaging personality. Individuals should be comfortable approaching and speaking with strangers to obtain interviews.
2. Must have flexible availability and willing to work outside normal office hours (longer, earlier, later) due to tidal cycles, vessel schedules, and survey times. Able to work any of the following 6-hr survey times: 2am-8am, 8am-2pm, 2pm-8pm, 8pm-2am, 11am—5pm. 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.
3. Basic understanding of computer applications, the internet and electronic touch-screen tablets.
4. Able to work under challenging field and weather conditions: wind, rain, heat, and cold.
5. Ability to lift heavy fish specimens, both alive and dead.
6. Ability to work well independently and solve problems in the field.
7. Thorough understanding of the survey. Be able to effectively explain its importance to anglers in order to gain their participation.
8. High school diploma or GED equivalent.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge and familiarity with marine recreational fishing and fish species is a plus, but not required. 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. Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator’s Class D license or equivalent license from the state in which you reside. Access to a reliable vehicle for travel to fishing sites.
Individuals are needed to cover Cape Cod and the islands, the South shore (Bristol and Plymouth Counties) and the North shore and Metro Boston (Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk Counties). This is a part-time position with no benefits.

TO APPLY: Please submit a resume, cover letter, 3 professional references (name, e-mail address and phone number) and unofficial copies of your college transcripts. Click the following HERE to complete our application and to submit the required documents.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals
Equal Opportunity Employer
Additional questions regarding the position can be directed to Bob Boutilier, HR Manager, at 508-990-9054.