Aquatic Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Who We Are:
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts' environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.  Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Who We Are as an Employer:
At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

DFG:
The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is the state agency responsible for conserving the state's natural resources. DFG exercises responsibility over the Commonwealth's marine and freshwater fisheries, wildlife, plants, and natural communities, and provides outdoor recreation opportunities to the public.

Job Description:

The Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) 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.

Job Opening: 

The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries seeks qualified applicants to serve as an Aquaculture Specialist (Aquatic Biologist II) for the Shellfish Program in New Bedford.

The individual in this position supports the Shellfish Program and Aquaculture Project by responding to combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges in Buzzards Bay through field investigations and data analysis. Collects water, wastewater and shellfish samples to better quantify and delineate impacts of CSO discharges on surrounding Shellfish Growing Areas and inform harvest closure decisions. Assists in the management and oversight of marine aquaculture in the Commonwealth. Assists in planning and conducting field surveys of prospective aquaculture site licenses. Assists Aquaculture Project leader in assessing both naturally occurring and contaminant pathogens that affect public health. Ensures industry compliance with Vibrio control measures for public health and coordinates with the Massachusetts Environmental Police for enforcement when necessary. Provides technical assistance to municipal Shellfish Constables regarding aquaculture regulations.

DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Investigates matters regarding combined sewer overflow discharges in Buzzards Bay, including:
   1. Collecting wastewater samples from outfall pipes during substantial rain and discharge events
   2. Collecting shellfish samples to reopen Shellfish Growing Areas closed due to discharge events
   3. Conducts studies and deploys equipment to investigate discharge impacts to Shellfish Growing Areas
   4. Operates vessels and a wide range of scientific equipment
   5. Assists New Bedford shellfish laboratory with biological, microbiological and chemical analysis as needed
   6. Available for regular weekend work as needed to assist in these tasks
2. Works with the project leader in the management of the Division's Shellfish Aquaculture Project, including:
   1. Working closely with the DMF Aquaculture Project leader in the development of new policy and regulations concerning aquaculture. 
   2. Planning and conducting proposed aquaculture site surveys including coordinating with DMF dive program staff.
   3. Responding to information requests and technical assistance requests from the public, municipalities and other agencies on matters relating to aquaculture.
   4. Audit aquaculture sites to ensure compliance with state regulations, permit conditions and NSSP guidelines.

   5. Preparing content for the Shellfish Program annual report. 

3. Investigates matters regarding shellfish biology, aquaculture, shellfish diseases, fisheries management at the local, state and national levels under the direction of the supervisor. 
4. Assists in industry training (presentations) and represents DMF Aquaculture Project at public meetings and outreach events.
5. Organizes, records and maintains data including computer coding and data entry for analysis. Prepares graphical presentations of data for inclusion in reports, publications and presentations. Prepares reports on aquaculture statistics as needed.
6. Operates and maintains field equipment, including motor vehicles, small craft and trailers; sampling gear and aquaculture/propagation equipment.
7. Trains new employees on the use of field equipment, safety equipment, boat operation and navigation.
8. Maintain collaborative and harmonious working relationships with colleagues, demonstrating professionalism in words and actions.
9. Assist other Marine Fisheries projects conducting monitoring and research as time allows.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE

1. Knowledge of shellfish biology and management.
2. Knowledge of shellfish aquaculture techniques
3. Knowledge of shellfish disease and pathology screening methods.
4. Ability to work and operate small vessels under difficult conditions.
5. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
6. Ability to work flexible hours and days including weekends depending on tide schedule, significant rain events, and other contingencies.

QUALIFICATIONS ACQUIRED ON THE JOB (List knowledge, skills, abilities)

1. Working knowledge of NSSP requirements.
2. Thorough knowledge of M.G.L. c. 130 and 322 CMR as required for shellfish management.
3. Develop skills associated with compiling and analyzing shellfish landings reported to the SAFIS Data Base.

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.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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.