The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources* is to cultivate a robust and equitable agricultural economy, promote a safe and resilient food system, and preserve a healthy environment for Massachusetts farmers, animals, and consumers. In carrying out this mission MDAR is committed to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth, provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. *A cover letter and resume must be submitted as part of the application process and attached “as relevant” to the requisition. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources provides survey and outreach efforts for introduced plant pests, pathogens and weeds of concern to the state of Massachusetts. This is a temporary/contracted position that does not have any benefits association with this position. Incumbent will work 37.5 hours per week (full time) for a total of 26 weeks or 44 weeks that has a paying rate off $22/hr. Length of employment (26 weeks vs. 44 weeks) will be determined upon hire. Reimbursement for mileage will be provided at $0.62/mile. Duties: * The incumbent will play an important role in exotic pest detection in Massachusetts. The incumbent will be responsible for the following: · Installing and servicing insect traps in the field, carrying out insect and plant surveys, and sampling plant material to be tested for plant diseases. · Responding to pest reports and conducting surveys. · Assisting in mitigation efforts for invasive pest. This position will require working in a variety of environments including local parks, farms, agricultural fields, groves/orchards, storage sites, nurseries, industrial sites, forests, ports of entry, etc. Incumbent will be responsible for collecting insect and plant specimens and recording data. Some data collection will require the use of GPS, PDAs and data management systems. Work will require extensive travel in Massachusetts. Incumbent will work independently, and as part of a team. Incumbent will interact with stakeholders and performing education and outreach to the public. *Preferred Qualifications: * Knowledge of insect and plant taxonomy, with a focus on insect identification skills. * Previous experience with insect and/or plant surveys. * Knowledge of technology including GPS, spreadsheet /database software, and data collection software. * Knowledge of Forestry and/or arboriculture. First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Qualifications: * Applicant must have experience performing the duties described above or have completed coursework above high school that includes scientific or technical courses such as biology, entomology, ecology, botany, agriculture, etc. Applicant must have experience with spreadsheet and database entry, and familiarity with GPS and mapping technology. Applicant must have a valid US driver’s license and his/her own vehicle and be prepared to spend an extensive amount of time in the field. There is a mileage reimbursement for travel. There are no benefits with this position, except Earned Sick leave. *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. Job: Agriculture* *Organization: Department of Agricultural Resources *Title: *Invasive Pest Survey Technician Location: Massachusetts-225 Turnpike Road-Southborough Requisition ID: 240004V9