CT Recreational Angler Interviewer

Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission•Old Lyme, CT

6d•Onsite

About The Position

As Recreational Angler Interviewer, the incumbent will conduct the field portion of the Access-Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS). This important research study, sponsored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) conducts face-to-face interviews with marine recreational anglers. Field staff will travel to assigned sites to interview anglers about their fishing experiences, and (when possible) weigh, measure, and identify angler catch to the species level. Assigned sites can include beaches, banks, piers, docks, jetties, and access points for private, charter, and head boats, including marinas, boat ramps and other points of entry to marine waters.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 20 years old
Have a valid driver's license and be comfortable with operating a vehicle (state vehicle at times)
Be willing to travel reasonable distances to reach assigned sites
Be available on weekends, weekdays, and holidays, with additional availability during some evenings and nights
Individuals should be comfortable approaching and speaking with strangers
Handling, measuring, and weighing fish
Working outside for extended periods of time in variable weather conditions
Applicants must be familiar with using a tablet and pay meticulous attention to detail and be able to complete survey questions, safely handle the tablet, and upload assignments in a timely fashion
Proven communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work independently, organize work and solve problems following prescribed procedures should all be demonstrated
Must be eligible to work in the United States

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of fish species with experience in recreational angling and familiarity of marine waterways in their local area is preferred

Responsibilities

Successfully complete training, including survey procedures and fish identification tests
Follow documented APAIS survey procedures
Travel to assigned fishing access sites to interview anglers about their fishing experiences
Use their own motor vehicle. Reimbursed for mileage.
Occasionally work on head boats (for-hire vessels) for at-sea data collection
Identify key species of fish with extreme accuracy and with little aide of field materials (up to 25 or more different species; guides and training will be provided)
Complete survey questions on tablets and upload assignments using Wi-Fi
Serve as a primary point of contact for CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) Marine Fisheries Program and the recreational fishermen
Answer questions and explain the importance of this federally-funded study
Other duties as assigned