Fisheries Biosampling Standardization Specialist

Lynker Corporation is seeking a Fisheries Biosampling Standardization Specialist to support NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC), Fisheries Statistics Division (FSD). This proposed role will support Trip Interview Program (TIP) biosampling operations, QA/QC reporting, data standardization, electronic data collection improvements, training, technical materials, and outreach.
* Hiring for this position will be contingent on contract award.

The SEFSC supports fisheries science across the Southeast Region, including the South Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean. FSD supports dockside biological data collection, quality control and assurance, data management, and analysis of fisheries-dependent data used for stock assessment and resource management processes.

Duties of the Fisheries Biosampling Standardization Specialist will include the following:

• Participate in biosampling operations to understand Trip Interview Program sampling operations, protocols, and logistical issues.
• Periodically accompany Federal and Partner TIP samplers to field sites.
• Observe field operations and assist in the collection of lengths, weights, and biological samples, primarily but not limited to otoliths, from a subset of commercial fisheries catches.
• Produce a brief written report for each sampled or observed trip no later than one week after the trip.
• Use standard database software such as Excel and Access, as well as more advanced software such as SQL Developer and SAS, to query TIP and associated data.
• Identify inconsistencies and monitor incoming data for standardization.
• Produce data reports for review by the Branch Chief.
• Conduct data extractions in support of analytical work by SEFSC staff as required.
• Use the QA/QC reporting system in the TIPS web portal to produce quarterly reports detailing sampler adherence to established protocols.
• Develop quarterly QA/QC report summary pages highlighting common issues or other problems.
• Meet by phone or in person on a biannual basis with Contractor Dockside Samplers to discuss QA/QC report results.
• Update and improve SAS code underlying the QA/QC reporting tool as necessary.
• Work with application developers to test QA/QC reporting tool improvements.
• Use SQL Developer to review historical TIP data, answer user questions, and respond to custom data requests.
• Assist in leading research, development, implementation, and enhancement of electronic data collection systems used in the TIP program.
• Work with technology vendors to research and implement viable electronic data collection methods and improvements to existing systems.
• Develop training materials, technical manuals, and curricula to advance the use of electronic systems in dockside sampling.
• Provide training and support for TIP samplers to maintain operations of electronic technologies.
• Participate in SEFSC-sponsored or participating outreach events, including Open Houses and Youth/Career Fairs, to explain port sampling goals and methods to the public, especially electronic technologies.
• Attend training sessions or conferences necessary to acquire updates to sampling protocols and technology, either in person or by webinar/conference call.
• Submit training and outreach materials for approval five days prior to class presentation or public presentation.

The Fisheries Biosampling Standardization Specialist should have the following:

• MS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study; or BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus three (3) years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of applying basic concepts, principles, and methodologies of fish or related biological field sufficient to independently perform scientific tasks using standard methods and techniques.
• Proficiency in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys.
• Computer literacy and experience with common word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs.
• Capability to write reports at the college level and make oral presentations.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience collecting catch and effort information from commercial fishermen.
• Knowledge of collection of routine biological samples,…