Seasonal Conservation Biologist I - Waquoit Bay
Description
POSITION INFORMATION\:
Position\: Seasonal Conservation Biologist I
Location\: Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Falmouth, MA
Start Date\: 11/15/26
End Date\: 3/20/27
# of Positions\: 1
Please note, if you are selected for this position and will be working less than 90 days, the position will automatically revert to a short-term position. Our short-term positions are not part of the salary scale that is advertised within this job posting. Should this position revert to a short-term seasonal position (less than 90 days), your salary rate will be discussed with you during the interview phase of the process.
Please Note\: Salary range compensation by hours worked is determined by several factors, including experience, seniority, the agency’s budget, and the nature of the role (e.g., short-term contract vs. full-time position). For union-represented roles, compensation will follow the applicable bargaining unit salary schedule rules and regulations
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.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and most diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting, and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreational facilities we care for – strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr or contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov.
Job Information\:
The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for the position of Seasonal Conservation Biologist I.
This position collects, analyzes, and reviews biological data through field, and literature work on endangered and threatened species and other features of biological diversity; provides technical assistance and information to public and/or private groups; helps the agency in maintaining liaison with various public and private agencies; and performs related work as required.
The basic purpose of this work is providing professional scientific services regarding the biological monitoring and the protection and management of the state's endangered and threatened species plants and animals and their habitats.
Duties & Responsibilities\:
Analyzes data variety of sources on declining species to assess population trends or to make management recommendations regarding courses of action for the protection and management of these species.
Collects and reviews biological data through field investigations to obtain information relative to population trends and environmental impacts in order to make appropriate recommendations.
Provides technical assistance and information on such matters as species and habitat conservation, management and research to various local, state and federal agencies and the scientific community.
Maintains liaison with various private, local, state and federal agencies and others in order to exchange information or to resolve problems related to the maintenance of biological diversity and ecosystem function
Performs related duties such as preparing general and technical reports and memoranda; preparing correspondence; and maintaining data and other scientific records.
Specific duties for WBNERR\:
conduct field surveys to monitor permanent salt marsh plots for elevation, plant communities, and invertebrate populations;
using GPS and other field survey equipment, locate plots and re-establish markers;
enter data and conduct preliminary quality checks;
- assist with marsh surface elevation and sediment accretion data collection
deploy, retrieve, and maintain data from autonomous loggers.
Preferred Qualifications\:
Knowledge of the principles of ecology and population biology.
Knowledge of a specific area of biology (for example, marine ecology) related to assigned responsibilities.
Knowledge of research methods and techniques followed in biology.
Knowledge of the characteristics and habits of declining species.
Knowledge of the principles and techniques of endangered and threatened species habitat management.
Knowledge of the types and uses of equipment used in field biology research and management.
Knowledge of the methods used in the preparation of graphs and tables.
Ability to read, interpret, apply and explain the policies, procedures, guidelines, laws, rules and regulations governing agency operations and assigned unit activities.
Ability to gather information by examining records and documents.
Ability to maintan and update databases according to established procedures.
Ability to determine the proper format and procedure for assembling data into interpretative text and figures.
Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of biology data, to draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to perform arithmetic and statistical computations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division; and calculate basic statistics such as mean, and standard deviation).
Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written expression.
Ability to prioritize work assignments.
Ability to prepare general and technical reports.
Ability to prepare and use charts, graphs and tables.
Ability to maintain accurate records.
Ability to deal tactfully with others.
Ability to establish and maintain professional and harmonious working relationships with others.
Ability to exercise sound judgment.
Ability to work independently.