Fishing Gear Technician

CANADIAN WILDLIFE FEDERATION•Halifax, NS

2d•CA$64,636 - CA$80,795•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Fishing Gear Technician who will help facilitate the trial and adoption of experimental fishing gear aimed at reducing entanglements and other human-related environmental threats for marine wildlife across Atlantic Canada. Working with a team of Technicians, this individual will test, demonstrate, and run innovative fishing gear trials for CWF's Marine Programs conservation projects. This role involves maintaining and repairing equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and managing data collection from field trials. The Technician works closely with external partners in the commercial fishing industry, providing support and guidance on gear usage to facilitate the smooth delivery of field trials. Gear being trialed primarily includes acoustic on-demand (e.g. ropeless) releases, but may also involve other gear adaptations as required. This individual will also assist in facilitating the CanFISH Gear Lending Program, including gear delivery and training, ongoing support, gear cleaning and maintenance. The Fishing Gear Technician will be a primary point of contact between CWF and our fish harvester partners and therefore must have exceptional interpersonal skills and strong communication skills. A working knowledge of Atlantic Canadian fixed-gear fisheries would be considered an asset, but not required. The individual will be expected to and should be comfortable with making regular phone calls and initiating conversations with the public. The ideal candidate will be extremely organized and able to juggle multiple priorities, be self-directed, and able to work in a team environment. They should be technologically inclined and willing to learn how to operate, maintain and repair innovative fishing technologies independently. A willingness to troubleshoot and problem-solve independently is essential to the role. Previous experience working with acoustic technologies is considered a strong asset to the role. Experience in detailed data collection and analysis, including basic knowledge of statistical software would be an asset, but not required. The individual must be comfortable working long days at-sea in all conditions on commercial fishing vessels and regularly lifting loads of up to 50lbs individually, and larger loads with assistance. This work will require travel across the Maritimes, therefore a valid driver’s license is required. Transportation, accommodations, and meals associated with fieldwork will be provided.

Requirements

Work in marine environments, including experience on commercial fishing vessels or other vessels at sea (e.g. following scientific protocols, collecting detailed data, keeping accurate and organized records, collaborating with industry stakeholders).
Working knowledge of acoustic release technology and/or how to troubleshoot field equipment.
College Diploma or equivalent experience in Ocean Technology or a related field.
1+ years of related experience.
Valid Driver's License.
Strong communication skills, specifically with individuals from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of education.
Extremely self-directed, able to identify needs of the program and take the initiative to accomplish tasks.
Capability and drive to carry out active field work though challenging physical conditions.
Ability to carry up to 40lbs individually and 80lbs with assistance.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of Atlantic Canadian commercial fisheries.
French language skills
Marine Emergency Duties (MED) training
Marine First Aid
Forklift Training
Previous experience working with acoustic technologies
Experience in detailed data collection and analysis, including basic knowledge of statistical software

Responsibilities

Tests, demonstrates, and runs innovative fishing gear trials on commercial fishing vessels across Atlantic Canada in accordance with program policies, plans, and procedures.
Assists with the planning of fieldwork projects, including coordinating permits and deliveries of on-demand fishing gear.
Provides training and operational support to external partners on gear usage and development, ensuring safe and proper use for project success.
Maintains a high level of technical proficiency in on-demand fishing systems and low-breaking strength gear used in trials and lending programs.
Applies skills in knot-tying, splicing, and configuring standard commercial fishing gear to operate and maintain technologies effectively.
Collects, inputs, and analyzes data from field trials, ensuring data accuracy and completeness.
Compiles reports summarizing methodologies, findings, and conservation outcomes for funders and project partners.
Assists with purchasing day-to-day warehouse needs, tools, and equipment.
Maintains the safety gear inventory, ensuring regular inspections are conducted and all gear complies with CWF safety requirements.
Sources and evaluates suppliers for equipment and prepares cost/benefit comparisons for the Gear Specialist.
Maintains records of damaged gear requiring repair or replacement, ensuring timely and accurate communication with program partners, manufacturers, and suppliers.
Inspects and repairs gear after each use in the field and for other organizations as requested or contracted.
Stays up to date on emerging research, technologies, and best practices to maintain technical expertise.
Networks with external partners, attends industry events, and assists with other conservation activities as required.