Gear Research Support Specialist Level I

• US Citizenship Required
• Onsite Position at a NEFSC Facility and at field locations
• Proposal Effort, Position is Subject to Contract Award
  
  

Position Description

NEFSC conducts innovative research to reduce bycatch of sea turtles, marine mammals, and other protected species. Think Tank is seeking a dedicated Gear Research Support Specialist Level I to assist in testing and evaluating fishing gear modifications, leading field research, supporting fishermen training, and contributing to data analysis and scientific publications.

This position requires extensive time at sea, direct work with the fishing industry, and active participation in field projects to advance conservation-focused fisheries management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field studies to test gear modifications aimed at reducing bycatch in commercial fishing, bottom trawl, and aquaculture gear.
• Train fishermen in the use of on-demand technology to mitigate bycatch.
• Prepare for and de-stage from gear testing and research projects.
• Identify and observe protected species (sea turtles, cetaceans, pinnipeds).
• Capture, sample, and tag sea turtles (flipper, PIT, satellite), including biopsies, morphometrics, and blood draws.
• Participate in small boat operations and use "big eye" binoculars for surveys.
• Coordinate field activities to achieve project objectives.
• Collect, enter, and process field data accurately.
• Assist in analyzing project results and documenting methods, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Contribute to reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
• Provide monthly progress updates, including accomplishments, travel, and key outcomes.
  
  

Requirements

• High school diploma (or equivalent).
• Basic computer skills; some experience with environmental/biological data preferred.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to independently conduct data collection at sea.
• Fishing vessel safety training.
• Experience working with the fishing industry and/or on commercial fishing vessels.
• Ability to spend up to 2 weeks at sea (16-hour workdays) and up to 1 month on vessels or 4 weeks in hotels.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills; ability to work independently in challenging field conditions.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs safely on a rolling vessel.
• Comfortable working up to 12 hours on small boats.
• Corrected 20/20 vision and valid passport (6 months before expiration).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Medical clearance and all required safety certifications.