Fisheries Methods and Vessel Technical Specialist

AIS•Pascagoula, MS

3d•Onsite

About The Position

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulation and collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is seeking a Fisheries Methods and Vessel Technical Specialist to support 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.

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
Must be able to work in the U.S.

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