The Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game works to preserve the state's natural resources and people's right to conservation of those resources, as protected by Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution. To carry out this mission, the Department exercises responsibility over the Commonwealth's marine and freshwater fisheries, wildlife species, plants, and natural communities, as well as the habitats that support them. The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries serves Massachusetts’ citizens by protecting, restoring, and enhancing fishery resources and their habitats, while providing sustainable fisheries related recreational and commercial opportunities. A cover letter and resume expressing your interest in this position must be submitted as part of the application process. These documents must be specifically attached to the requisition for which you are applying. The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) seeks applicants for the position of Aquatic Biologist II to support the DMF in the following activities on the Resource Assessment Program. *DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Acts as chief scientist during bottom trawl survey cruises and maintains close interaction with Research Vessel (R/V) officers, fishermen, and scientific party in order to successfully complete sampling priorities. Duties include communicating sampling priorities and protocols successfully to R/V officers and other members of the scientific party; data are collected and recorded accurately; Sub-sampling procedures are adjusted based on the catch size and composition to most effectively represent the catch; Instructs less experienced and inexperienced members of the scientific staff in correct sampling and recording procedures and verifies that procedures are followed by others in scientific party. 2. Contributes to all aspects of preparation and execution of two bottom trawl surveys and one seine survey per year. Duties include: All survey planning, and gear preparations are undertaken with regard for consistency with protocols; The Fisheries Scientific Computer System (FSCS) data collection system is configured and set up to match sampling goals and to maximize reliability; Post-survey break down and cleaning of FSCS data collection system and other sampling gear and supplies is conducted in an orderly fashion to maximize working life and facilitate inventory assessment. 3. Conducts post-processing of survey data including execution of audits for error resolution. Audit programs are completed efficiently and accurately. All corrections and exceptions are clearly documented. 4. Executes and modifies computer programs (R and SQL) to extract abundance and biomass trend data from survey database. Independently investigates and develops methods to better query, analyze, summarize, and present survey data for purposes of assessing fish populations, characterizing fish assemblages in near shore habitats, and filling data requests. 5. Assists project personnel and other scientists in completion of annual seine survey. Duties include assisting with preparation of equipment, sample collection, species ID, data entry, fulfilling data requests, and analysis and presentation of results. 6. Assist with preparation and repair of survey nets/gear in adherence to standardization practices, including net mending. 7. Represents agency and survey project at meetings with industry, public and professional peers. 8. Writes technical and non-technical letters, memoranda, and reports. Prepares graphical representations of project data for inclusion in reports and publications. 9. Assist other MADMF projects with conducting research when time permits. QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE: 1. Thorough knowledge of marine biology and ecology. 2. Ability to work at sea on research vessels, fishing vessels and small craft in difficult conditions and a willingness to work a flexible schedule including occasional weekends. 3. Knowledge of survey and sampling design and the ability to adjust sampling strategies as conditions warrant. 4. Ability to plan, direct and carry out a field project including supervision and training of assistants. 5. Knowledge of computer software applications including: Structured Query Language, Geographic Information Systems applications, and statistical software packages. 6. Strong statistical background including experience with multivariate and time series analyses. 7. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds safely. 8. Small vessel operation and basic maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS ACQUIRED ON JOB: 1. Enhanced ability to plan and direct project activities that provide information and services essential to effective fisheries management. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Applicants must have at least four years of full-time or equivalent part-time, professional or technical experience in marine biology, fisheries science, or fisheries management work. 2. Experience with bottom trawling and net/gear construction and repair preferred. 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. First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Applicants must have at least (A) three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, para-professional or technical experience in marine biology or fisheries management work, of which (B) at least one year must have been in a professional capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below. Substitutions: I. A Bachelor's degree with a major in marine, fisheries or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science or oceanography may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience.* II. A Graduate degree with a major in marine, fisheries or, fisheries or wildlife biology; fisheries or wildlife management; marine science or oceanography may be substituted for one year of the required (A) experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience.* Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed. _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! *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. *Job: Science *Organization: Department of Fish And Game *Title: *Aquatic Biologist II (Resource Assessment - Trawl Survey) Location: Massachusetts-New Bedford - 836 South Rodney Requisition ID: 23000DTL