Vegetation Technician

FLSA Status:Hourly, Non-Exempt (not benefit eligible)

Department: Coastal Ecology Program (CEP)             

Salary Range: $17.00 – $18.00 (based on qualifications)

Hours: Monday-Friday (may include holiday weekends); 24-30 hr/wk (Part Time)

Schedule: Mid-March/April to September; additional off-season hours may be available

About the Organization: Duxbury Beach Reservation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charitable corporation, owns approximately 4.5 miles of Duxbury Beach, a 7.5-mile long barrier beach that extends from Marshfield in the north to Gurnet Point and Saquish in the south. The Reservation’s mission is to protect the beach structure, preserve its ecological resources and maintain recreational access. Part of this responsibility is to maintain a Coastal Ecology Program on Duxbury Beach. 

Nature of Work:

As a Vegetation Technician for Duxbury Beach Reservation you will play a crucial role in maintaining, enhancing, and documenting the plant life on Duxbury Beach. The primary responsibilities will include conducting site assessments to map plant life, treating invasive plants, and engaging the public in your efforts.     

Responsibilities and Duties:

Field Work and data collection:

• Create a site wide map of invasive plants (spring/summer)
• Treat invasive species using manual techniques (summer)
• Apply fertilizer to targeted areas to ensure the success of native plants (early spring)
• Vegetation and soil monitoring for dune nourishment projects (fall)
• Utilize ArcGIS applications for recording data
• Other tasks as assigned

Supervisory, Communication, Volunteer coordination, and Outreach:

• Create social media posts highlighting vegetation work (at least 2x/month)
• Develop/update materials on vegetation and management practices for DBR, the DBR website and outreach
• Work with Outreach Coordinator to coordinate and lead at least two volunteer invasive species projects during the summer and/or fall
• Train and supervise Endangered Species Program Shorebird Monitors in invasive plant removal

Administrative Tasks: 

• Create an end of season report including priorities and impacts for the Coastal Ecology Committee
• Participate in Coastal Ecology Team meetings
• Collaborate to create new protocols and SOPs for vegetation management
• Proof data to ensure data quality at the end of the season

Avian field work:

• Assist Endangered Species Program as needed in the implementation of Duxbury Beach Reservation’s Certificate of Inclusion

Recommended Minimum Qualifications:

• Education & Experience: Applicants with a B.S. or B.A. or higher in biology/botany or related field, or equivalent work experience, are strongly preferred; A minimum of one-year professional experience in vegetation monitoring or similar field
• Knowledge of Massachusetts vegetation, including invasive and native plants
• Ability to effectively communicate with co-workers, subordinate employees, the public, and ability to carry out specific tasks as assigned by the Reservation Coordinator
• An interest or willingness to learn about Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting ecology and help in nesting species management as needed
• Must be able to work long hours outside in all weather conditions and be able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs across varied and sandy terrain
• Be prepared to work outdoors with exposure to extreme weather conditions in secluded areas. Practice extreme care and safety precautions while on the job including following special safety precautions, training, and wear PPE
• Vegetation Technician will be required to find their own housing as well as reliable transportation to and from work. Use of personal vehicles may be required to access remote sections of the beach.

Special Requirements: Valid Driver’s License and ability to operate related program equipment and vehicles. Specific vision abilities required include close, medium, and distance vision, the ability to adjust focus and distinguish colors and shapes, and the ability to read pertinent documents. Auditory demands include communicating with others on a regular basis. Ability to use hands and fingers for the manual removal of invasive plants and spreading of fertilizer. 

Supervision Received: Reports directly to Duxbury Beach Reservation’s Reservation Coordinator