Habitat Management Field Crew

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Westborough, MA

7d

About The Position

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is seeking qualified individuals to assist with habitat management activities on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) across the Commonwealth, with an emphasis on the control of invasive plant species.
Under the supervision of the Restoration Ecologist and Habitat Management Crew Leader, the crew will perform fieldwork involving the identification, documentation, and treatment of invasive plant infestations. Work will focus on the application of approved herbicides, as well as the implementation of mechanical and prescribed fire treatments to restore and maintain priority natural communities for biodiversity. The crew will also participate in vegetation and wildlife monitoring to evaluate treatment effectiveness, maintain detailed field records, and contribute to project reporting. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain experience in applied habitat management, invasive species control, and wildlife conservation.

Requirements

• Before start date, applicant must pass the pesticide licensing exam to obtain a MA Pesticide Core Applicator License to perform job duties.
• Must be comfortable spending long periods of time outdoors.
• Must have a valid drivers license to potentially drive state vehicles and trailers.

Nice To Haves

• Good physical condition. Must be able to carry ~40 lbs. of field equipment. Must be able to carry a 35 – 40 lb. backpack sprayer for an extended period of time on uneven terrain.
• Ability to work independently as well as working with a team.
• Identification of common invasive plant species in Massachusetts is desirable but not required; will train.
• Previous experience with technology (GPS, Mapping, ArcGIS, FieldMaps).
• Previous coursework in the biological or environmental sciences.
• In-state travel will be required.

Responsibilities

• Identify and document invasive plant species and infestations throughout Massachusetts.
• Application of Massachusetts-approved herbicides for invasive/ undesirable plant control, ensuring compliance with all label and regulatory requirements.
• Plan and conduct mechanical vegetation treatments using brush saws, chainsaws, and related equipment, ensuring safe and effective operation.
• Assist the Prescribed Fire Team with controlled burn operations.
• Utilize GPS and GIS software (ArcGIS, ESRI FieldMaps) to map infestations, treatment areas, and monitoring plots; ensure data accuracy and consistency among crew members.
• Maintain field notebooks, photo documentation, and data records.
• Participate in biological surveys during early morning or evening hours.
• Assist with herbicide treatments on Penikese Island, requiring two multi-day overnight camping trips.
• Assist with monitoring programs, including photo points, vegetation surveys, and light trap surveys.

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.
• Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed