Marine Resource Scientist

DEPARTMENT OF MARINE RESOURCES MARINE RESOURCE SCIENTIST I

For current State of Maine employees, please submit your application through the internal application process using the Find Jobs report in PRISM. Seasonal employees who do not have PRISM access should apply through the State’s career page and indicate on the application that they have previously worked for the State.

Opening Date: February 20, 2026

Closing Date: End of day March 13, 2026

Location: West Boothbay Harbor

Position Number:

Class Code: 9362

Grade: 24 (Professional/Technical Unit)

Salary: $54,537.60 - $76,460.80 Per Year* (This includes a 5.5% Salary Adjustment)

This position will conduct boat-based fieldwork throughout the Maine coast and write scientific reports based on the work conducted. It involves operating, launching, and trailering small powerboats, maintaining a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), and assisting with the maintenance of a remotely operated vehicle. The position also assists in maintaining, updating, and improving data collection methods for the Aquaculture Division, utilizes GIS software, and may assist with maintaining and updating relevant aquaculture GIS layers.

Professional scientific work includes evaluating aquaculture lease sites and writing reports. Field work may be conducted in inclement weather, outside typical hours, and occasional overnight travel. Operating small powerboats and an ROV are regular occurrences from Spring through late Fall. SCUBA diving and assisting divers also occur. Remote work is possible with supervisory approval.

Conduct on-site assessments of proposed aquaculture lease sites using boats, ROVs, and SCUBA for remote camera observation. Analyze data and develop formal, written reports for adjudicatory hearing processes. Use GIS software to generate maps and figures. Maintain and update electronic data collection methods and perform data QA/QC. Assist in oversight and maintenance of sampling equipment such as boats, ROVs, and SCUBA gear.

Achieve and maintain DMR boat operator status.

Knowledge of aquaculture in Maine; ability to communicate clearly and effectively with diverse audiences; proficiency in operating and trailering powerboats; proficiency in operating complex remote interface systems and multi‑axis controllers; skill in using ArcGIS Pro or similar GIS mapping software; strong technical writing skills; SCUBA certification and ability to dive using SCUBA.

Entry level education, training, or experience in a scientific, technical, or engineering discipline with demonstrated experience in marine resource research and management or a related field.

• Work‑Life Balance – 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime‑exempt employees receive personal leave.
• Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85‑100% of employee‑only premiums ($11,857.68‑$13,950.24 annual value), depending on salary. Use the chart to find premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
• Health Insurance Premium Credit – Participation decreases employee‑only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements.
• Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee‑only dental premiums ($365.28 annual value).
• Retirement Plan – The State of Maine contributes 14.11% of pay to the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (Maine
  
  PERS), on behalf of the employee.
• Gym Membership Reimbursement – Receive up to $40 per month to offset this expense.
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts – Set aside money pre‑tax to help pay for out‑of‑pocket health care expenses and/or daycare expenses.
• Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness – The State of Maine is a qualified employer for this federal program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid office.
• Living Resources Program – Navigate challenging work and life situations with our employee assistance program.
• Paren…