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*_Who We Are:_* The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition. *_Who We Are as an Employer:_* At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents. *_Description:_* The Department of Conservation and Recreation’s mission is to protect, promote and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural and recreational resources for the well-being of all. The DCR is steward to one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation which includes more than 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, trails, golf courses and parkways. DCR strives to be an exemplary leader in conservation and recreation. DCR’s staff is passionate, dedicated, and continuously employs best practices that are informed by expertise, and creates a sense of place through carrying out the mission. *_Job Opening:_* The Department of Conservation and Recreation, seeks applicants for a contract employee, Program Coordinators – Mt. Tom Specialist Project Coordinator to perform the following duties below and position information. *Position Information* *Work Hours:* part-time 20 hours per week, no employee benefits *Project:* To oversee and coordinate the Mt. Tom Quarry Restoration and Public Access Project. *Primary Location: *136 Damon Road, Northampton, MA 01060 *Salary Rate: *$40.00 per hour *Contract Time Period: *April 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026, Please note that this contract may have the option to renew. *Benefits:* Not eligible this is a contract employment. Earned sick time per applicable rules, regulations and laws. ** *Project Background and Context: *The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) owns and manages the Mt Tom State Reservation which encompasses most of Mt Tom and has worked for decades to ensure that this valuable natural and recreational resource is protected and available for public use and enjoyment. The Reservation has spectacular scenic vistas, contains many popular hiking trails, and is rich in biological diversity including state-listed rare plant and wildlife species and priority natural communities (defined by the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, NHESP). In addition to the State Reservation, Mt Tom was home to the popular Mt Tom Ski Area which closed in 1998 and was also the site of a traprock quarry located right next to the Ski Area. In 2002, DCR, US Fish and Wildlife Service, The Trustees of Reservations, and the Holyoke Boys and Girls Club acquired 380 acres that were part of the former ski area to further protect the Mt. Tom landscape, to expand outdoor recreation and educational opportunities, and to limit and eventually stop an invasive quarry operation that was occurring in its midst. The project site is located at the center of this 380-acre area and was acquired by DCR in June 2022 to complete the conservation project that DCR and its partners began in 2002. The land includes the former quarry site and portions of the Mt Tom Ski Area and remaining infrastructure. Both parcels currently provide excellent habitat for a variety of common and rare plant and wildlife species and are in the middle of what has become a popular recreation destination for Holyoke residents and the public. At the same time, ecological restoration and recreation planning are needed to ensure that this area is integrated into the surrounding landscape and remains an asset to Holyoke and the surrounding communities. *General Responsibilities:* Oversee, coordinate and assist in the development of restoration, safety and public access plans for the site and conduct associated outreach. Act as the internal and external project liaison for the project. *Specific Responsibilities Include: * * Work with Engineering, Ecology, Operations, Trails, and other DCR divisions to complete the demolition and basic restoration work that is already planned. * Work with trails, ecology, and engineering staff to finalize a basic safety plan for the site. If needed, contract an outside vendor to implement this plan. * Work with relevant DCR staff to onboard and manage contractors to: o Develop an ecological restoration plan for the site o Create a plan for visitor access to the site and trail connections to adjacent properties o Other elements of the project as needed * Determine which components can be implemented within the contract timeframe from a project timeline based on feasibility, permitting, and financial perspective. * Hold internal team meetings to update on progress and get feedback from DCR staff. * Facilitate DCR coordination with the Natural Heritage Endangered Species Program (NHESP), Holyoke Conservation Commission, and other regulatory entities throughout all phases of the project. * Ensure that all elements of the project follow all relevant internal review processes, including Green Docket. * Conduct outreach, public meetings, and coordination with the City of Holyoke, partners, and stakeholders, including working with the Regional Director, West Region Legislative and Partnership Coordinator, and other relevant DCR staff. *Preferred*: * Bilingual (Spanish and English) * Experience working for a public Agency ** **MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: ** *Qualifications, Experience and Skills required*: * Knowledge and Experience with principles and practices associated with land use planning including ecology, habitat management, historic preservation, and trails/access/circulation plans. * Strong written and verbal communication skills; experience and ability with public speaking and consensus building. * Exceptional organizational skills. * Demonstrated ability to manage complicated projects involving the participation of officials, public advocacy groups, stakeholders, and the general public. * Demonstrated ability to organize, develop, and run project-related public meetings, including public speaking and meeting facilitation. * Experience managing contractors and monitoring project spending, adhering to a budget. Knowledge of state and local permitting for land use planning, construction and site development projects. * Proficient with use of Excel and familiarity reading a variety of maps and plans. _*Comprehensive Benefits*_ When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! *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:** **Contractor* **Organization:** **Department of Conservation & Recreation* **Title:** *Mt. Tom Special Project Contractor* **Location:** *Massachusetts-Northampton-399 Damon Road* **Requisition ID:** *250003BZ*