South Shore and Cape Cod MRIP Recreational Fisheries Technician

About the Role

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 and 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.

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.

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 (mileage is paid).
• Must pass a survey procedures test and fish identification test following training, with at least 90% accuracy.
• Must have flexible availability and be 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-hour survey times: 8am-2pm, 2pm-8pm, and 11am-5pm.
• Ability to work regularly on weekends and holidays (Friday is considered a weekend day). Must be able to work at least 16 hours each weekend.
• 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.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Outgoing and engaging personality. Individuals should be comfortable approaching and speaking with recreational anglers to obtain interviews.
• Basic understanding of computer applications, the internet, and electronic touch-screen tablets.
• Knowledge and familiarity with marine recreational fishing and fish species is a plus but not required.

Pay & Schedule

• Salary: $18.00 per hour
• This is a seasonal contract position from April to November.
• Part-time, day shift position.
• No benefits are included except earned sick leave.
• Mileage is paid for all travel to and from sites.