Fisheries Methods and Vessel Technical Specialist
About The Position
A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is seeking a Fisheries Methods and Vessel Technical Specialist to support the NOAA Southeast Fisheries Science Center’s (SEFSC) Harvesting Unit. 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. The position involves constructing, maintaining, and repairing selective fishing gear, providing technical expertise for research projects, supporting survey cruises through at-sea operations, operating and maintaining research vessels, and conducting outreach and training sessions for commercial fishers and marine law enforcement.
Requirements
- 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 U.S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels License (6-Pack), if not already held
- Ability to obtain and maintain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Ability to meet all NOAA Small Boat Program training and certification requirements
Nice To Haves
- 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
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
Benefits
- health and dental insurance
- vacation
- sick and holiday benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
