Marine Biologist (ASM) - Boston, Ma

AIS Inc•Boston, MA

3d•$35,000 - $55,000•Onsite

About The Position

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is seeking Marine Biologists (At-Sea Monitors) to collect and record data and biological samples for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFCS) aboard commercial fishing vessels. The primary goals of Northeast federal fishery observation programs are to provide quantitative biological, vessel, and gear-selectivity information for various New England and Mid-Atlantic fisheries. The At-Sea Monitor program focuses specifically on the groundfish industry. Marine biologists collect data pertaining to fishing programs, economics, catch data, and fishing efficiency, which is used to document stock information to protect the environment and preserve future generations of fish and fishermen. At-Sea Monitors record detailed information on the gear and fishing activity of the vessels, working on deck on vessels ranging from 20’ to 100’ on trips roughly ranging from 1 to 14 days. They collect data on fish catch and discard and incidental takes such as marine mammals, seabirds, and marine turtles. After a 3-week paid training in Falmouth, MA, monitors are deployed from ports throughout New England and the Mid-Atlantic states. Gear types assessed include trawl, gillnet, longline and handline. This is a challenging job requiring candidates to be mentally prepared to be away from home for multiple days, and physically able to handle heavy lifting, working odd hours, and long days in rough seas. Observers are recognized as excellent field biologists with a range of advancement opportunities available, including project management and field supervisor roles.

Requirements

High school diploma is required.
Experience with data entry on computers.
Must be a U.S. citizen, or be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Must be physically able, as determined by a licensed physician’s certification to perform observer duties.
Own transportation is required.
Commitment to the program for at least one year.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field from an accredited college or university with 30 credits of biology coursework.
6 credits of marine science is preferred.
At least one undergraduate course in math or statistics preferred.
At-sea experience
Coursework in Dichotomous Keys
Experience collecting Field Data and entering databases.

Responsibilities

Collect and record data and biological samples for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFCS) aboard commercial fishing vessels.
Record detailed information on the gear and fishing activity of the vessels.
Collect data on fish catch and discard and incidental takes such as marine mammals, seabirds, and marine turtles.
Assess gear types including trawl, gillnet, longline and handline.