Conservation Officer - Seasonal

Job Summary

18 years & older, CORI/Physical Valid Driver's License and CPR Cert.

Performs a variety of environmental and ecological duties to assist the Director and Natural Resources Department staff with enforcement of statutes, ordinances, by‑laws, and regulations relating to shellfish, wetlands, conservation and natural resources. Employee works under the supervision of the Director of Natural Resources and receives day‑to‑day direction from the Shellfish Constable and Land Management Specialist to assist with regulation enforcement and land management activities.

This position is required to issue citations and will also assist with educating beach goers about coastal environments, including the importance of protecting dunes, bird nesting habitat and aquatic animals. Prior environmental education experience is a plus. The position requires agility and physical strength, such as moving in and about construction sites, over rough terrain, or standing or walking most of the work period.

Employees are exposed to outdoor work, confined spaces and high places, equipment and machinery, traffic, biohazards, and risk of personal injury when in the field.

• Patrol assigned conservation areas (fishing areas, beaches, open space, landings, etc.) to enforce applicable statutes, by‑laws, directives and regulations. The employee has the authority to issue warnings or citations and may take Department‑approved actions to secure the safety and preservation of persons, property and natural resources.
• Patrol assigned areas (by auto, boat or afoot) to enforce statutes, by‑laws, directives and regulations relevant to the taking of lobster, shellfish and inland fish and game.
• Perform physical labor to help maintain the Town’s Natural Resources programs (nature trails, community gardens, blueberry patches, conservation areas, and related areas) utilizing machines, equipment and tools.

• Education
  An associate’s degree in environmental science, biology, natural resource management or similar is preferred but not required.
• Position Requirements
  High school diploma and one (1) to three (3) years of work experience demonstrating the ability to make decisions and follow instructions.
• Special Requirements
  Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D motor vehicle operator’s license.
  Possession of a current and valid CPR (cardio‑pulmonary resuscitation) certificate from the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
• Knowledge, Abilities and Skills
  Working knowledge of state and local environmental laws, including but not limited to the regulations of the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and the Wetlands Protection Act.
  Ability to enforce rules and regulations firmly and impartially.
  Proficient written and oral communication skills; proficiency in the use of personal computers and office software such as word processing.
  Ability to operate small boats, clam pumps, winches and other shellfish harvesting equipment is preferred but not required.