Ocean Career: AIS Inc. Fisheries Biologist

Fisheries Biologist

AIS is looking for a Fisheries Biologist to support the Fisheries Engineering & Acoustic Technologies (FEAT) team on an ongoing acoustic trawl survey within the Fishery Resource Analysis & Monitoring Division of NOAA.

FEAT is one of three groups within NOAA with an acoustic and advanced technology focus. On a large scale, FEAT contributes to fisheries management through their biological and ecological focus, but more specifically, the FEAT team primarily supports the coastwide Integrated Ecosystem & Pacific Hake Acoustic-Trawl Survey. Deployments will be split into 3 legs, all departing from Newport.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Complete all necessary training to access NWFSC server and deploy on research vessel.
• Under the instruction of FEAT Newport staff, become familiar with software used at-sea and methods to troubleshoot peripheral devices.
• Set up wet lab prior to sailing.
• Deploy on research vessels operating at-sea for extended periods of time, with shifts commonly up to 12 hours.
• Work in the wet lab alongside FEAT staff, preparing and analyzing samples.
• Follow established protocols for data collection and tracking samples.
• Keep detailed notes, used for creating reports at-sea and drafting monthly progress reports summarizing effort and accomplishments.
• Operate equipment.
• Update databases.
• Organize and maintain inventory and supplies pre-survey and during deployment.
• At the end of the survey, store survey gear, transfer all notes to FEAT staff, distribute samples to investigators, analyze collected stomachs and preserve in ethanol and complete post-survey inventory of supplies.
• Refine survey training materials and protocols.

Minimum Requirements:

• Training in the scientific method and basic statistical methods by completion of 20+ undergraduate level credits in science-based courses.
• Successful completion of 90+ days at-sea.
• Demonstrated use of dichotomous keys to identify fish and invertebrates.
• Experience using Microsoft Excel and Word, with a working knowledge of troubleshooting software/hardware issues on computers.
• Basic soldering techniques.
• Completion of an at-sea safety course.
• Ability to submit fingerprints and information required for a background check (must pass background check).

Preferred Qualifications:

• 90+ of demonstrated as-sea field capability, with experience determining catch composition and collecting biological samples.
• Completed background check through NOAA or other federal agency within the last 4 years.
• Experience identifying Northeast Pacific fishes.
• Solid understanding of basic electronics.
• Experience preparing and repairing systems for a wet environment.
• Experience collecting and analyzing fish stomach contents.

Compensation:

Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated and total compensation will vary depending on the candidate's experience. This is a full–time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.

Travel:

• Extensive Travel Required
• Deploy on research vessels operating at-sea for extended periods of time, with shifts commonly up to 12 hours.

Location:

• NWFSC Newport Research Station in Newport, Oregon
• 2030 SE Marine Science Dr, Newport, OR 97365