Position/Project Specifics:
West Coast Groundfish Observer Program (WCGOP) Debriefer. The West Coast Groundfish Observer Program’s (WCGOP) primary goal is to collect information on the discard of west coast groundfish from commercial fishing vessels. This information is used to assess the total mortality of a variety of groundfish species. WCGOP debriefers are vital to the success of the WCGOP.
Debriefers train, provide support, and act as mentors to observers. They are also a key component in the data QA/QC process.
General Job Description:
Act as a debriefer for the WCGOP. Debriefers support observers with sampling questions and review the data collected by observers in the field, ensuring that data have been correctly collected and entered into the program’s database. Debriefers are responsible for evaluating observer performance with regards to sampling methodologies, calculations, correct form completion, meeting deadlines, data entry, problem solving, species ID, communication, etc.
Debriefing: Act as a debriefer for Catch Share and Non Catch Share observers that are part of the WCGOP. Data QA/QC: 1) Check Observer sampling protocols and data forms for every trip completed. 2) Effectively organize, track, and ship biological specimens collected by assigned observers 3)Write detailed evaluations to provide feedback to observers. 4) Conduct periodic sit-down debriefings with observers, as required by the program. 5) Perform corrections/updates to archived observer data as needed. 6) Check data entry for key punch errors. 7) Contribute to discussions and decision making, related to the updating of sampling protocols, including the creation and updating of sampling materials (e.g., manuals, data forms).
Observer training: Assist in the training of new observers and the development of training curriculum and materials. This may include creating lesson plans, practicals, lectures, homework assignments and training aides. May be responsible for giving presentations and lectures.
Essential Functions:
(The functions listed below are characteristic of the type and level of work associated with this group and pay band. They are not all-inclusive. Individual positions may perform some or all, as well as other similar work.)
At the lower end of the range, employees:
- Compile project data into standardized electronic data formats. This includes accessing filed information and verifying its accuracy and completeness, performing data entry, electronic data transfer, editing, and error checking.
- Extract relevant data which may be presented in many different text and numeric formats, reports, tables, graphics, or figures.
- Maintain local versions of datasets in accordance with established regional database exchange formats and standards.
- Maintain a local archive of current and historical reports and documents. Coordinate the regular transfer of reference materials to archives and libraries.
- Train technical and general users in the use of database applications through individual instruction and/or group presentations.
- Create queries, summaries, and/or maps in response to requests for customized data.
- Prepare and manipulate various data and graphic outputs for use in reports, presentations and internet applications, using standardized retrieval scripts.
At the upper end of the range, employees:
- Develop and implement databases and libraries. Includes acquiring new data as well as taking previously created or historical databases or spreadsheets and integrating them. Data sources vary in format including database, spreadsheet, and survey data sets. Custom interfaces may be required.
- Produce written research and statistical reports (including graphs, tables, maps, and text), data sets, and data summaries using a variety of analytical techniques and software tools. This involves the use, modification, and development of database retrieval scripts.
- Document data handling and reporting to ensure consistency and validity of data between and within sites. Files may come from sources that use different computer hardware, software systems/protocols, and different communication packages.
- Maintain and update data catalogs, data catalog directories, and metadata.
- Perform system maintenance and backups. This includes routine database checkpoints, checkpoint verification, tuning, data-process merges, and user account management. Restore files when required.
- Perform Help Desk functions, responding to on-line user inquiries about access to the database and data retrievals, the execution of query scripts, and standard report programs.
- Participate in technical user groups to determine future data needs and the programs that will fulfill them.
- Coordinate the development of standards and exchange formats for the efficient movement of data between participants.
Knowledge Required by the Position:
The employee must have knowledge of:
- Fisheries Observer Programs and data collection protocols for WCGOP observers.
- Personal computers and software packages and applications for databases, spreadsheets, and word processing
- Data management concepts, principles, and methods
- Quality assurance principles
- Technical documentation methods and procedures
- Statistical analysis
- The organization’s data assets
Additional Mandatory/Desirable Knowledge and Skills:
- Adobe In-Design(Desirable)
- MS Access (Desirable)
- MS Excel (Mandatory)
- MS Word (Mandatory)
- Oral communication skills (Mandatory)
- Writing technical documentation (Desirable)
- Conflict Management Skills (Desirable)
Supervisory Controls: Work is assigned in terms of project goals, objectives, priorities, and, at times, specific tasks. At the lower end of the range, the employee will exercise initiative in solving common technical and procedural problems. Unusual issues are referred to the supervisor or higher-graded employee for consultation or review.
At the upper end of the range, the employee plans and carries out assignments with independence, guided by experience and knowledge to complete the objective. He/she seeks assistance only on the most unusual issues. Sufficiency of planning and execution, and accuracy of the data produced are normally accepted without detailed review, even for customized assignments.
Minimum Qualification Requirements:
A range of experience and education may be presented. Candidates must present one year of Specialized Experience** AND four years of successfully completed education above high school in anthropology, economics, statistics, or any other field that provides the same knowledge. An equivalent combination of experience and education is also qualifying.
**Specialized Experience is experience that equips the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position and is typically in or related to the work of the position being filled. To be creditable, Specialized Experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled.
Please note: Preference will be given to candidates with prior Observer Experience with the WCGOP.
Salary range: $24.26-38.58/hour
Application deadline: September 30, 2026
