Please note, if you are selected for this position and will be working less than 90 days, the position will automatically revert to a short-term position.

Our short-term positions are not part of the salary scale that is advertised within this job posting. Should this position revert to a short-term seasonal position (less than 90 days), your salary rate will be discussed with you during the interview phase of the process.

About the Department of Conservation and Recreation:

The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation and protects and enhances natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Massachusetts. DCR is a dynamic agency and is one of the largest park systems in the nation. The DCR system includes over 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, golf courses, trails and parkways.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for the position of Seasonal Forestry Assistant.

A cover letter and resume must be submitted as part of the application process and attached “as relevant” to the requisition.

The Seasonal Forestry Assistant will work outdoors in all types of weather.

This position begins on or about March 26, 2023 and ends November 18, 2023.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Assists Forester in the supervision of tree planting and related tree care maintenance operations conducted by a state contractor and taking place on DCR parkways, roadways and other DCR properties in the metro Boston area.

Assists Foresters in the tree planting operations for the Greening the Gateway Cities Program (GGCP) to increase tree canopy cover for the purpose of reducing heating and cooling energy costs to residences and businesses and to educate private landowners and the public about proper tree selection, care, and maintenance.

Assists with the canvassing and outreach efforts for the GGCP; able to communicate the objective of the program effectively to a diverse community of homeowners and residents.

Interacts with the public to encourage participation in the GGCP and provides technical advice to landowners about proper tree selection and maintenance.

Assists Foresters with scheduling and attending site visits.

Assists Foresters in the supervision of daily tree planting crews to ensure trees are planted according to DCR Bureau of Forestry standards.

Assists Foresters with collecting data and maintaining databases. Able to read maps and planting plans.

Operates and assists in maintaining state vehicles.

Performs related duties such as assigned.

Qualifications - External

Knowledge of the principles and practices of applied forestry and wood harvesting.

Ability to identify tree species.

Knowledge of the types and uses of equipment used in forestry.

Knowledge of safety practices used in forestry.

Knowledge of the types and uses of handheld power tools such as chainsaws, hedge trimmers, etc.

Knowledge of the terminology and standard abbreviations used in forestry.

Ability to understand, explain and interpret the laws, rules, regulations, policy, procedures, standards and practices governing assigned agency activities.

Ability to follow written instructions.

Ability to maintain harmonious working relationships with others.

Ability to assemble items of information in accordance with established procedures.

Ability to act quickly and make decisions in dangerous and emergency situations.

Ability to give oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner.

Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written expression.

Ability to maintain accurate records.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as plans, specifications, blueprints, maps, etc.

Please note, if you are selected for this position and will be working less than 90 days, the position will automatically revert to a short-term position.

Our short-term positions are not part of the salary scale that is advertised within this job posting. Should this position revert to a short-term seasonal position (less than 90 days), your salary rate will be discussed with you during the interview phase of the process.

Executive Order #595: As a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption.

• Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.