Aquatic Biologist II (Aquaculture Specialist)

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • New Bedford, MA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG), Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) 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.

Requirements

• Knowledge of shellfish biology and management.
• Knowledge of shellfish aquaculture techniques.
• Knowledge of shellfish disease and pathology screening methods.
• Ability to work and operate small vessels under difficult conditions.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours and days including weekends depending on tide schedule, significant rain events, and other contingencies.
• Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator’s Class D license or equivalent license from the state in which you reside.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Investigates matters regarding combined sewer overflow discharges in Buzzards Bay, including collecting wastewater samples from outfall pipes during substantial rain and discharge events and collecting shellfish samples to reopen Shellfish Growing Areas closed due to discharge events.
• Conducts studies and deploys equipment to investigate discharge impacts to Shellfish Growing Areas.
• Operates vessels and a wide range of scientific equipment.
• Assists New Bedford shellfish laboratory with biological, microbiological and chemical analysis as needed.
• Available for regular weekend work as needed to assist in these tasks.
• Works with the project leader in the management of the Division’s Shellfish Aquaculture Project, including working closely with the DMF Aquaculture Project leader in the development of new policy and regulations concerning aquaculture.
• Planning and conducting proposed aquaculture site surveys including coordinating with DMF dive program staff.
• Responding to information requests and technical assistance requests from the public, municipalities and other agencies on matters relating to aquaculture.
• Audit aquaculture sites to ensure compliance with state regulations, permit conditions and NSSP guidelines.
• Preparing content for the Shellfish Program annual report.
• Investigates matters regarding shellfish biology, aquaculture, shellfish diseases, fisheries management at the local, state and national levels under the direction of the supervisor.
• Assists in industry training (presentations) and represents DMF Aquaculture Project at public meetings and outreach events.
• 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.
• Operates and maintains field equipment, including motor vehicles, small craft and trailers; sampling gear and aquaculture/propagation equipment.
• Trains new employees on the use of field equipment, safety equipment, boat operation and navigation.
• Maintain collaborative and harmonious working relationships with colleagues, demonstrating professionalism in words and actions.
• Assist other Marine Fisheries projects conducting monitoring and research as time allows.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits
• outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package
• work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level