What are the responsibilities and job description for the Marine Science Instructor (Biology, Fisheries, Seamanship) position at Southern Maine Community College?
PROJECTED START DATE: August 17, 2026
DEPARTMENT: Marine Science
REPORTS TO: Department Chair or Dean of Academic Affairs
BENEFITS: 100% employer paid health, dental and life insurance for employees (spouse/dependent coverage also available), vision insurance, choice between Maine Public Employees Retirement System or TIAA in lieu of social security, generous sick/personal time allowances, professional development, and free tuition within the MCCS for employee, spouse and qualifying dependents. SMCC summary of benefits 2025.pdf
POSITION SUMMARY: The college is seeking a qualified and experienced educator to join its Marine Science Program in the Biological Sciences Department. This full-time faculty position supports programs in marine science with a focus on fisheries, ecology, molecular biology, and field methods. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching, curriculum development, student advising, captaining SMCCs 28’ research vessel, and industry engagement.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Deliver high quality instruction in fisheries science, field, and molecular research courses, coastal navigation, capstone research, and/or ecology, oceanography, and majors biology
- Provide prompt and constructive feedback on assignments and exams
- Develop and revise curriculum to meet industry standards and accreditation requirements
- Advise and mentor students in academic and career planning
- Participate in departmental meetings, college committees, and professional development activities
- Maintain industry engagement to ensure program relevance and student opportunities
- Contribute to assessment and continuous improvement of academic programs
- Collaborate with colleagues across disciplines to support interdisciplinary learning.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A commitment to high standards in education
- Master’s degree in Biology, Marine Science, or related field (thesis defended)
- Minimum of 3 years (5 years preferred) of teaching experience in a related field at the post-secondary level
- Thorough understanding and experience in coastal navigation, boat handling, rules of the road, marlinspike, vessel maintenance.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and statistical programs
- Experience in aquatic field sampling
- Knowledge of experimental design and research standards
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students
- Eligibility to work in the United States
- Experience with online or hybrid course delivery
- Enthusiasm for innovation in teaching and learning
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- PhD in Biology or related field
- Coast Guard captain’s or master’s license. Experience with PCR and qPCR platforms
- Proficiency with field equipment such as, Sidescan sonar, Environmental DNA Sampler, YSI data sonde, beach seine, plankton tow nets, ponar grab
- Familiarity with curriculum development and accreditation standards
- Experience with Brightspace or similar learning management system
- Experience mentoring students in capstone projects or internships
- Active engagement in professional organizations or industry networks
- Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development
- Aquatic animal husbandry and recirculating aquaria systems
- Membership in professional society (e.g., American Fisheries Society, AAAS)
- Ability to work with outside agencies such as DMR and IFW
- Experience in boat maintenance
WHY WORK AT SMCC:
SMCC offers meaningful work in a mission-driven environment where employees are valued for their expertise, commitment, and care for students. SMCC employees benefit from a collegial workplace, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a direct impact on student’s lives and Maine’s workforce.
ABOUT SMCC:
SMCC is Maine’s largest community college and a member of the Maine Community College System. SMCC is dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that prepares students for careers, transfer, and lifelong learning.
MISSION, VISION, & STRATEGIC ANCHORS:
SMCC is guided by a student-ready philosophy and a commitment to equity, access, and excellence. Our work is grounded in three strategic anchors:
- Students - Supporting access, success, completion, and well-being
- People - Investing in a supportive, inclusive, and engaged workforce
- Community – Strengthening partnerships and responding to regional workforce and community needs
RECOVERY FRIENDLY WORKPLACE
SMCC is proud to be a Recovery Friendly Workplace. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment that values the unique experience and contributions of individuals from all walks of life. At SMCC, we believe in empowering all members of our community to thrive and succeed in both their professional and personal journey
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Currently, SMCC is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.
THINKING ABOUT APPLYING?
Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.
SMCC is an Equal Opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for all employees. We provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. For more information, please contact 207-741-5568.
APPLICATION PROCESS: Review of applications will begin June 11, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume and a list of three professional references.
Qualifications:POSITION SUMMARY: The college is seeking a qualified and experienced educator to join its Marine Science Program in the Biological Sciences Department. This full-time faculty position supports programs in marine science with a focus on fisheries, ecology, molecular biology, and field methods. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching, curriculum development, student advising, captaining SMCCs 28’ research vessel, and industry engagement.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Deliver high quality instruction in fisheries science, field, and molecular research courses, coastal navigation, capstone research, and/or ecology, oceanography, and majors biology
- Provide prompt and constructive feedback on assignments and exams
- Develop and revise curriculum to meet industry standards and accreditation requirements
- Advise and mentor students in academic and career planning
- Participate in departmental meetings, college committees, and professional development activities
- Maintain industry engagement to ensure program relevance and student opportunities
- Contribute to assessment and continuous improvement of academic programs
- Collaborate with colleagues across disciplines to support interdisciplinary learning.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A commitment to high standards in education
- Master’s degree in Biology, Marine Science, or related field (thesis defended)
- Minimum of 3 years (5 years preferred) of teaching experience in a related field at the post-secondary level
- Thorough understanding and experience in coastal navigation, boat handling, rules of the road, marlinspike, vessel maintenance.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and statistical programs
- Experience in aquatic field sampling
- Knowledge of experimental design and research standards
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students
- Eligibility to work in the United States
- Experience with online or hybrid course delivery
- Enthusiasm for innovation in teaching and learning
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- PhD in Biology or related field
- Coast Guard captain’s or master’s license. Experience with PCR and qPCR platforms
- Proficiency with field equipment such as, Sidescan sonar, Environmental DNA Sampler, YSI data sonde, beach seine, plankton tow nets, ponar grab
- Familiarity with curriculum development and accreditation standards
- Experience with Brightspace or similar learning management system
- Experience mentoring students in capstone projects or internships
- Active engagement in professional organizations or industry networks
- Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development
- Aquatic animal husbandry and recirculating aquaria systems
- Membership in professional society (e.g., American Fisheries Society, AAAS)
- Ability to work with outside agencies such as DMR and IFW
- Experience in boat maintenance