Habitat Mgmt Field Crew Leader

Job Description

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 conservation of 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.

• Supervise and coordinate the field crew conducting invasive plant control and other related habitat management work on Wildlife Management Areas statewide.
• Identify and document invasive plant species and infestations throughout Massachusetts.
• Oversee the application of Massachusetts-approved herbicides, 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 Program 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.
• Coordinate logistics for field operations, including equipment, materials, transportation, and safety supplies.
• Assist with biological monitoring, including vegetation and wildlife surveys, to evaluate treatment effectiveness.
• Assist with herbicide treatment efforts on Penikese Island, requiring two multi-day overnight camping trips.
• Communicate regularly with supervisors to provide progress updates, report challenges, and recommend improvements to field operations.
• QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE (List knowledge, skills and abilities)

• Before start date, applicant must pass the pesticide core licensing exam to obtain a MA Pesticide 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.

• Prior experience in crew supervision, field coordination, or project leadership.
• Demonstrated experience in invasive plant identification, treatment, and habitat management practices.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• 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 periods of time on uneven terrain.
• Previous experience with mapping technology (GPS, ArcGIS, FieldMaps)
• Ability to work outdoors under a variety of field conditions, including inclement weather, uneven terrain, and remote locations.
• In-state travel will be required.

• Prescribed Fire Training and Certification
• Invasive Plant Identification and Management Techniques, including chemical and mechanical control methods.
• Herbicide Mixing, Application, and Recordkeeping following state and federal regulations.
• Field Leadership and Crew Supervision Skills, including safety oversight, scheduling, and task coordination.
• Chainsaw and Brush Saw Operation and Maintenance (with formal safety training).
• GPS and GIS Data Collection and Mapping (ArcGIS, Field Maps, and related platforms).
• Vegetation Monitoring Methods, including survey design and data collection.
• Field Reporting and Documentation Skills, including photo documentation, data management, and season-end reporting.

• MA Pesticide Core Applicator (Must take and pass the MA Pesticide Core Applicator exam before the start date of the position)
• Must have a valid drivers license to potentially drive state vehicles and trailers.