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 must be submitted as part of the application process and attached “as relevant” to the requisition. The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) seeks applicants for the position of Aquatic Biologist II. The individual in this position will assist in the operation of the Division of Marine Fisheries Shellfish Sanitation and Management Program out of the SouthCoast Office, involving bacteriological analysis, sanitary classification and monitoring of shellfish growing areas in addition to technical assistance, biological monitoring, shellfish mitigation project support and habitat protection to support the DMF in the following activities. This posting is for two (2) positions. DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Plans and conducts field investigations leading to the classification of shellfish growing areas consistent with the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP), including collection and interpretation of water quality data, shoreline surveys to identify pollution sources, and completion of sanitary surveys, triennial reevaluations and annual evaluations in support of classification decisions. 2. Prepares written NSSP required reports to support shellfish growing area classification decisions and management recommendations. Prepares technical and non-technical letters and memoranda related to sanitary classification and biological surveys associated with coastal alterations and shellfisheries management. 3. Provides technical assistance to coastal communities in shellfish biology and diseases, shellfisheries management and identification and mitigation of pollution sources. Answers requests for information from municipal officials, state and federal government agencies, and the public on all matters relating to the NSSP and shellfish in Massachusetts. 4. Provides support to the Fisheries Habitat Project staff by reviewing proposed coastal alteration projects with regard to impacts on water quality, shellfish resources and shellfish habitat. 5. Organizes, records, and maintains data for computer analysis. Prepares graphical presentations of data for analysis and inclusion in reports, publications and presentations. 6. Performs biological shellfish surveys in growing areas and on aquaculture license sites for use in managing shellfish resources and in determining effects of coastal alterations on shellfish habitat. 7. Serves as backup to the principal Bacteriologist at DMF’ lab in SMAST West. 8. Keep and maintain the records for all shellfish classification and opening and closure notices (status changes). This includes editing and ensuring the distribution of notices to all required recipients. Incumbent is also responsible for collecting and maintaining up to date records of town shellfish regulations. 9. Represents Shellfish Program and Agency, conducting meetings and providing oral presentations to the public, shellfish industry and fisheries professionals. Occasionally participates in evening meetings to provide information and technical assistance to local communities. 10. Operate and maintain field equipment, including motor vehicles, small craft and trailers, sampling gear and mooring hardware. 11. Assists other Marine Fisheries projects, as assigned and as time allows. QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE (List knowledges, skills, abilities): 1. Considerable knowledge of fishery biology and management as related to shellfish management, sanitation and marine biotoxins. 2. Working knowledge of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP). 3. Working knowledge of bacteriological sampling and testing as well as knowledge of survey and sampling design and application. 4. Familiarity with sampling gear commonly used in the field of fisheries science and associated disciplines. 5. Excellent oral and written communication skills, ability to speak effectively and prepare clear and concise written general and technical reports. 6. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Office suite with ability to perform arithmetic and statistical computations. 7. Ability to analyze and determine the applications of biological data, to draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations. 8. Ability to supervise employee(s), as well as work independently. QUALIFICATIONS ACQUIRED ON THE JOB: 1. Thorough knowledge of the NSSP Model Ordinance. 2. Knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 130 and Code of Massachusetts Regulations Title 322. 3. Ability to read, interpret and apply policies, procedures, guidelines, laws, rules and regulations governing agency operations and assigned unit activities. 4. Develop knowledge and ability to conduct intertidal and subtidal shellfish surveys. 5. Develop experience operating and navigating small vessels in coastal waters under difficult conditions. 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. REMARKS: As an Area Shellfish Biologist, the incumbent will plan and conduct routine water quality monitoring, shoreline surveys and sanitary evaluations, and write sanitary reports for classification of Massachusetts shellfish growing areas. Incumbent will provide technical assistance to coastal communities in shellfish biology and diseases, shellfisheries management and identification and mitigation of pollution sources, and answer requests for information from municipal officials, state and federal government agencies, and the public on all matters relating to the NSSP and shellfish in Massachusetts. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule (around the tides) including occasional weekends and evenings. Incumbent should have the ability to effectively manage time and adjust daily schedule to efficiently complete correspondence, field work, travel, and attend meetings. Conducts other activities necessary to the operation and mission of the Division of Marine Fisheries as assigned. 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: *Shellfish Classification Biologist - Aquatic Biologist II Location: Massachusetts-New Bedford -706 S R Frch Blvd Requisition ID: 23000DET