This role serves as a senior technical specialist and vessel operator, responsible for maintaining and operating Class III research vessels, supporting survey cruises, and providing advanced expertise in fishing gear construction, deployment, and evaluation.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Construct, maintain, and repair selective fishing gear, including TEDs and BRDs, for use in research and training activities
- Provide technical expertise and support for fisheries research projects and gear evaluations
- Support Mississippi Laboratories survey cruises through at-sea operations and gear deployment
- Operate and maintain Class III research vessels, serving as Captain or First Mate during research missions
- Ensure vessel readiness, including maintenance, inspection, cleanliness, and seaworthiness
- Safely manage vessel navigation, cargo handling, deck operations, and onboard equipment
- Maintain inventory of vessel supplies and support overall vessel logistics
- Assist with small boat operations and general equipment maintenance
- Conduct outreach and training sessions for commercial fishers on proper use of federally required fishing gear
- Provide training to marine law enforcement on inspection and compliance procedures for regulated fishing gear
- Prepare reports documenting outreach, training, and operational activities
- Support general unit operations, including warehouse maintenance and equipment organization
Minimum Qualifications:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in net construction and repair within a commercial fishery or net shop environment
- Minimum 5 years of experience as Captain of a research or commercial fishing vessel, including operation and maintenance of associated equipment
- Current U.S. Coast Guard Master’s License (100-ton or greater)
- Demonstrated proficiency reading and interpreting fishing gear schematics and construction diagrams
- Valid driver’s license
- Advanced vessel operations and navigation capability in research and field environments
- Strong technical expertise in fishing gear systems and construction techniques
- Ability to lead safe and efficient vessel and deck operations
- Effective communication skills for training and operational coordination
- Ability to obtain and maintain:
- S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels License (6-Pack), if not already held
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Ability to meet all NOAA Small Boat Program training and certification requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of selective fishing gear technologies and bycatch reduction methods
- Experience delivering technical training and hands-on demonstrations
- Small boat operation certifications (e.g., fast rescue boat)
- Knowledge of federal fishing gear regulations and compliance requirements
Travel: Travel Estimated: 40–50% (regional travel across Gulf of Mexico states, including offshore survey cruises, regional outreach activities, and training events).
Location: Pascagoula, MS – Southeast Fisheries Science Center’s Pascagoula Laboratory
