Habitat Management Field Member (Seasonal Contractor)

Description: The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife seeks applicants for a seasonal contractor to perform the following duties:

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife seeks individuals to assist with the mapping, herbicide treatment, and vegetation monitoring of ongoing projects to control invasive plant species in Wildlife Management Areas across Massachusetts.  Fieldwork includes identification of invasive plants, documentation of the extent of current infestations, appropriate herbicide application of treatments to control target invasives, and long-term monitoring to determine the effectiveness of control efforts.  The primary responsibility of the crew will be to control invasive plant species using chemical (herbicide) means.  The crew members will also participate in proper training in mechanical (Brush-saw and Chainsaw) and prescribed fire treatments to complement herbicide treatments in reaching long-term goals for invasive control and wildlife habitat improvements.  They will assist in monitoring vegetation and wildlife to determine treatments’ effectiveness, keep accurate field records and mapping standards, and communicate regularly with their supervisor.  The crew will be able to assist other staff with inventory/taxa work as it is available/practical.

Responsibilities:  Identify and document highly invasive plant species and plant infestations.

Control target invasive plant infestations through the use of MA-approved herbicides.

Use hand and power tools (with appropriate safety equipment and training) to cut and remove unwanted vegetation.

Assist the Prescribed Fire team with prescribed burn operations (with appropriate training and safety equipment).

Use Mapping software, GPS, and create files and maps to document infestations, treatment units, and monitoring transects/points with ArcGIS

Maintain field notebooks, photographs, and data records and assisted with an end-of-season report. 

Assist with biological surveys during early hours and late evenings.

Assist with Herbicide treatments at Penikese Island, which require two overnight trips for multiple days.

Assist with Monitoring program (Photo Points, Vegetation Surveys, Light Trap Surveys)

In-state travel is required.

Qualifications:      Must be able to carry ~40 lbs. of field equipment. Must be able to carry a 35 – 40 lb. backpack sprayer for an extended period of time on uneven terrain.

Ability to work independently as well as working with a team.

Identification of common invasive plant species.

Previous experience with technology (GPS, Mapping, ArcGIS)

Previous coursework in the biological or environmental sciences.

In-state travel will be required; a Massachusetts Class D driver’s license (or equivalent) and an acceptable driving record.

Learn more and apply here.