Ocean Career: Marine Mammal Center Sea Otter Response Specialist

This position is meant to provide the candidate with a high-level view of community powered conservation while supporting the advancement of an inclusive environment within one of the world’s largest marine mammal stranding response programs, with a focus on sea otter response and post-release monitoring.

The successful candidate will contribute meaningful support to the response & animal care of marine mammals at our San Luis Obispo Operations and the sea otter post-release monitoring program at the Center.

Essential Functions

Sea Otter Post-Release Monitoring Program: 30%

  • Leads the development of standard operating practices in sea otter post-release monitoring.
  • Leads the development of post-release data collection standards and management best practices.
  • Develop training for staff and volunteers in post-release monitoring procedures.

Marine Mammal Response and Animal Care: 60%

  • Supports the San Luis Obispo operations with marine mammal response and animal care to facilitate an efficient stranding response program.
  • Participates in marine mammal rescues, releases, research, and other field work.
  • Joins teams of volunteers to provide triage care for rescued animals.
  • Assists with dead stranded marine mammal response, data collection, and necropsies as needed.

Other Duties as Assigned: 10%

  • Perform special projects and research as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of marine mammal biology and conservation.
  • Skills using software and database programs.
  • Ability to work as part of a team.
  • Ability to drive/operate a vehicle. Public transportation between housing accommodations and site is limited.
  • Willingness to develop skills in community engagement.
  • Willingness to support and participate in the Center’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, initiatives, and trainings.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain standards of insurability.
  • Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination or waiver (medical or religious).
  • This position requires an interest and passion for conservation. Experience working in software-based programs and wildlife monitoring and/or research preferred. Proficiency in a language other than English is preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Potential exposure to zoonotic diseases.
  • Working in outdoor weather conditions and elements.
  • Working in an office environment with rotating groups of volunteer crews.
  • Working with and handling live and dead marine mammals.
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position and move in an office environment for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment.
  • Ability to frequently move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds across site and locations.

Compensation Range: $20.00 – $22.00/hr.

Partial Benefits:

  • Sick Time
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • The Marine Mammal Center offers benefits to support the emotional wellbeing of you and your loved ones (Employee Assistance Program)

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

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