Summer 26 - Seasonal Planting Laborer Short Term - Greening the Gateway Cities (Salem)

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Salem, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is seeking four (4) contract employees for the Seasonal Planting Laborer I Short Term Employment - Greening the Gateway Cities program in Salem, MA. This role involves performing various labor tasks outdoors in all types of weather to support the planting of trees in Massachusetts’ gateway cities. The goal of this program is to increase tree canopy cover, which in turn reduces heating and cooling energy costs for residences and businesses, improves neighborhood aesthetics, and provides other environmental benefits. The contract period is from September 8, 2026, to November 14, 2026. This is a short-term seasonal contract position and is not eligible for benefits, though earned sick time is provided per applicable rules and laws. The position offers the opportunity to engage in urban forestry, learn tree planting best practices, gain communication skills, and experience working in a state agency.

Requirements

• NONE MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work in a team setting.
• Manual dexterity.
• Physical stamina and endurance for full time, hard manual labor.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Willing to work in all weather conditions.
• Skill in using hand tools such as shovels, mattocks, pry bars, bolt cutters, clippers, etc.

Nice To Haves

• Potential to become a STS Laborer II with proven experience in driving a van and/or towing a trailer.

Responsibilities

• Dig and backfill tree planting holes with hand tools.
• Plant trees according to industry standards.
• Load and unload trees from vehicles and trailers.
• Load and unload tools and equipment.
• Maintain vehicles, tools, and equipment.
• Perform preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and tools by washing, inspecting, tightening, lubricating, and sharpening edges on all cutting tools.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Earned sick time per applicable rules, regulations and laws.
• Engage in urban forestry activities within the Commonwealth.
• Learn tree planting best practices from experienced GGCP Foresters.
• Gain invaluable communication skills engaging with stakeholders throughout your local community.
• Experience working in a state agency with diverse career opportunities.
• Comprehensive Benefits (for Commonwealth careers in general, though this specific role is short-term contract and not eligible for most benefits).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed