Seasonal Lab and Field Technician
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.
SRB:
The State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board oversees mosquito control in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts including 11 regional programs. It establishes administrative and technical policies, guidelines, and best management practices to ensure mosquito control programs are safe and effective.
Job Description:
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources' (MDAR) mission is to help keep the Massachusetts' food supply safe and secure, and to work to keep Massachusetts agriculture economically and environmentally sound.
The Massachusetts State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board (SRB) within the Department of Agricultural Resources, oversees mosquito control in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts including 12 regional programs. SRB establishes administrative and technical policies, guidelines, and best management practices to ensure mosquito control programs are safe and effective.
The Pioneer Valley Mosquito Control District (PVMCD) works to support public health in its 25 member communities across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties through mosquito surveillance, targeted larval control, and public education.
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The PVMCD office is located at 270 Stockbridge Road, Amherst, MA 01003.
General Statement of Duties:
The Seasonal Field Technician would be responsible for assisting the District Director in conducting extensive arbovirus surveillance to help mitigate the transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The Seasonal Field Technician will report directly to the District Director.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist the Director with deploying and collecting mosquito surveillance traps, identifying mosquitoes, preparing samples for delivery to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and writing weekly reports.
- Analyze surveillance data to establish trends in species composition, temporal and spatial trends, and vector abundance.
- Assist staff in treating catch basins, targeting WNV vector species.
- Follow field and lab protocols for maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
- The Seasonal Lab and Field Technician may also be assigned additional duties and responsibilities as determined by the District Director.
After Selection, the applicant will be trained and required to do the following:
- Identify a variety of mosquito species found in Massachusetts, using a dichotomous key and microscope.
- Develop familiarity with targeted vector species' phenology, behavior, and seasonal abundance.
- Understand disease dynamics relating to the spread of arbovirus throughout the region and the transmission cycles.
- Collect data and assist in creating treatment maps utilizing GIS software.
- Acquire the MA Catch Basin Applicator Permit.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
- Willingness to work outdoors and during inclement weather.
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
- Must be able to navigate and move safely over uneven terrain.
- Demonstrated professionalism and ability to effectively interact with the public and municipal partners.
- Must be punctual, dependable, and comply with set work schedules.
- Must be highly motivated and able to work independently.
Preferred Experience:
- Experience/knowledge similar to that acquired through a formal degree program in biology, environmental science, public health, or a related field.
- Experience with ArcGIS or QGIS.
Period of Employment: July 1, 2026 - September 5, 2026.
Work Week/Schedule: Up to 20 Hours per week Monday-Friday. Weekly hours may vary based on program needs.
1 Position Available.
Hourly Rate: $22.00-$25.00 per hour.
Qualifications
Comprehensive 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.
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An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Health Insurance
- Health Reimbursement Account
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- FSA
- HSA
- Mental Health Benefits
Parental Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Commuter Benefits Program
Vacation and Time Off
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Personal/Sick Days
- Volunteer Time Off
Financial and Retirement
- Pension
- Financial Counseling
Professional Development
- Promote From Within
- Mentor Program
- Access to Online Courses
- Lunch and Learns
- Internship Program
- Leadership Training Program
- Associate or Rotational Training Program
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program