Gear Liaison​/Specialist

At Saltwater Inc. we believe that high-quality data is vital to the health of our fisheries and oceans: our mission is to provide that data. We are a Women‑Owned Small Business and are constantly seeking new team members who share our passion for innovation and environmental wellness. We are currently recruiting for a seasonal, part‑time Gear Liaison/Specialist to assist the Northeast Fisheries’ Science Center’s (NEFSC) Ecosystems Survey Branch (ESB) Net Loft staff with the construction, maintenance and repair of scientific survey fishing gear used on ESB research surveys and research projects.

Fishing gear used during marine resource surveys are standardized to ensure the quality and comparability of collected fishery‑independent survey data through time.

This will be a part‑time position (~20‑25 hr/wk). Work will be performed on‑site at a Northeast Fisheries Science Center location in Pocasset, MA. Work will begin ASAP and will likely continue through September 29, 2026.

Duties:

• Assist with the staging, transportation, unloading and installation of scientific survey gear and other equipment and supplies for ESB surveys and research projects.
• Participate on ESB research cruises for up to 60 days at sea per year.
• Provide assistance in the construction, maintenance and repair of scientific fishing gear used on Ecosystems Surveys Branch research surveys and projects.
• Assemble or make appropriate repairs to survey and research fishing gear based on assessment of damage and wear, ensuring adherence to all established standards and protocols.
• Assist with inspections and measurements on fishing and sampling gear to ensure adherence to established standards and protocols.
• Assists with the staging, transportation, unloading and installation of scientific survey gear and other equipment and supplies for ESB surveys and research projects.
• Assist with resupplying scientific fishing gear, materials and hardware as required during field activities.
• Assist efforts to maintain an inventory of all scientific sampling gear and up‑to‑date records of all scientific gear repairs and gear inspections.
• Assist with routine efforts to ensure a clean, safe and efficient workspace at the Pocasset Net Loft.
• Participate in resource survey or gear standardization surveys for a period of up to 60 days at sea per year.

Saltwater Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Please note that net‑mending skills are REQUIRED, as is the ability to read net diagrams and adhere to vessel safety protocol. Additional qualifications are as follows:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience with the assembly and repair of bottom trawl and/or scallop fishing gear.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience with the scheduling and transportation of fishing or research sampling equipment.
• Minimum of 1 year experience maintaining an inventory of fishing or research equipment and repairs.
• Capable of working at sea for extended periods (up to 60 days annually).
• Hold a valid state drives license with the ability to operate a Federal motor vehicle.

Salary range is $40 – $45 per hour, dependent upon experience.

Saltwater Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, parental status, veteran status, or disability status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace culture to attract the best talent and allow each member of our team to achieve their full potential and maximum productivity.

Furthermore, Saltwater Inc. highly encourages qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply for positions for which they are qualified and to notify us if there are any needs for accommodation throughout the application process and/or upon hire.

Only qualified applicants with the requisite experience need to apply.

We will honor all requests for application confidentiality.