Reviewer - Natural Disaster Recovery II (NDR2) Program (Contract Position)

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.

MDAR:

The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) 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.

Position Description:

MDAR is seeking an experienced agricultural professional to serve as a Reviewer for the Natural Disaster Recovery II (NDR2) Program, a program serving Massachusetts farmers who suffered weather-related losses in 2023-2024. The NDR2 Program provides financial assistance to aid affected agricultural operations rebuild and recover from those losses.

The Reviewer will be responsible for reviewing applications from farmers, determining eligibility for payment based on established written criteria, and calculating award amounts for eligible applicants.

This is a contract opportunity that is expected to begin in October 2026 and continue through March 2027, with the opportunity for extension based on performance and program needs.

Tasks will include, but not be limited to:

• Review applications as submitted for completeness and eligibility.

• Review submitted documentation for accuracy and eligibility.

• Coordinate and conduct follow-up phone calls and site visits with applicants to verify application information.

• Collate data from applications into shared spreadsheet.

• Evaluate pool of applicants and determine award amounts.

• Meet with supervisor and other team members regularly to discuss applications.

• Provide any needed support with the contracting process between the grant recipients and the Commonwealth. Tasks can include drafting contracts and helping recipients complete required documentation.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of agriculture and food systems.

• Experience reviewing proposals and/or loss claims.

• Strong organization skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to multitask.

• Excellent communication skills (written and oral).

• Quantitative skills and an understanding of budgets.

• Ability to collaborate with a team as well as work independently.

• Ability to travel to different sites throughout Massachusetts.

• The ability to work with large data sets.

• Experience with Microsoft Office.

• Experience working with awards and contracts.

• Friendly and supportive demeanor.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working on a large grant program.

Work Schedule:

• Approximately 15 hours per week during the first two months, with potential for additional hours as program needs evolve. Following the second month, standard weekly hours will vary between 5 to 15 hours per week. Anticipated up to 200 hours over the course of the contract.
• Daytime availability is required.
• This position is primarily remote but will occasionally require in-person meetings and site visits throughout Massachusetts. No meetings will be held on weekends, but limited site visits on weekends may be necessary.
   

Contracted Employees will be expected to work from their own facilities, though office space may be available as needed. Consultants will be provided a state-issued cell phone and a mass.gov email address for the duration of the contract. Consultants must have their own vehicles and will be reimbursed for mileage at the Commonwealth’s set rate (currently $0.70/mile).

Individuals submitting applications as independent contractors are invited to apply.

Individuals who are applying to the NDRII program as farmers seeking awards for losses are not eligible to apply as reviewers and will not be considered for this role.

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%25 of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.