The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is seeking a qualified individual to serve as Crew Leader for the Habitat Management Field Crew. Primary duty will be overseeing field operations focused on invasive plant control on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) across the Commonwealth.

Under the supervision of the Restoration Ecologist, the Crew Leader will coordinate and supervise the seasonal field crew.  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 Leader is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and effective field operations; maintaining detailed project records; and contributing to the evaluation and reporting of habitat management outcomes.

DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to:

• 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)

The candidate for this position must possess the following qualifications:

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 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.

QUALIFICATIONS ACQUIRED ON THE JOB (list knowledge’s, skills and abilities)

• 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.

Must be comfortable spending long periods of time outdoors.

LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• 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.