Otolith Technician (Ageing)
About The Position
The International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) is seeking to hire an Otolith Technician (Ageing). The Otolith Technician (Ageing) is responsible for all activities related to determining Pacific halibut ages from otoliths. The work location is IPHC headquarters in Seattle, Washington. The IPHC is a public international organization and as such will consider applicants regardless of nationality. Non-US citizens will be required to obtain a G4 Visa for work in the USA, with the assistance of the Secretariat. This is a full-time position with an initial appointment of two (2) years, with the possibility of renewal by mutual consent. Given the importance of consistent age determination to the IPHC's stock assessment program, continuity within the Otolith Ageing Services is highly valued. As part of ongoing succession planning, the IPHC encourages applications from individuals interested in developing long-term expertise and assuming increasing responsibilities within the organization.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or related field
- Knowledge of fish age determination methods using otoliths
- Proven ability to communicate effectively in written and oral formats with a variety of audiences
- Proven ability to work cooperatively and professionally with people with diverse backgrounds and with differing responsibilities and perspectives
- Proven computer skills for documenting, tracking and querying data
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- A valid U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) is required to participate in benefits programs.
- A satisfactory background check is a condition of employment.
Nice To Haves
- Practical experience in fish age determination using otoliths or other ageing structures is highly desirable.
- Candidates with a strong interest in fish ageing, demonstrated attention to detail, and a willingness to develop specialized skills through training are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Performs all functions related to determining Pacific halibut ages from otoliths, including production age reading; quality control age reading; otolith selection storage, and archiving; and age data entry into databases.
- Assists in the coordination of age reading assignments and annual objectives in collaboration with Senior Otolith Laboratory Technician (Ageing) and Otolith Ageing Services (AOS) team members.
- Coordinates with the FRDSB Manager, Senior Otolith Laboratory Technician (Ageing), the Port Operations Coordinator, Setline Survey Coordinator (FISS), and other Secretariat members as needed to ensure otolith samples are received and processed according to sampling protocols and methods.
- Ensures the proper labeling, use, storage, and disposal of all hazardous chemicals used in the otolith laboratory. Coordinates with the Biological Laboratory Technician and safety officer to ensure that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all hazardous chemicals used by otolith ageing services are available and current.
- Attends IPHC and domestic agency meetings, as needed. Prepares and delivers presentations related to otolith collection, aging, and related research.
- Complies with all IPHC policies, including but not limited to Business Ethics and Conduct, and declares any real, apparent, or potential conflicts of interest.
- Secretariat staff are prohibited from holding or being the beneficiary for any interest in the Pacific halibut industry.
- Provides instruction for IPHC interns on otolith ageing related tasks.
- Oversees a student volunteer program assisting with AI-based age determination.
- While the majority of work for this position is performed in an office environment, the position may involve work in storage and workshop environments and requires occasional physical activity, including standing, walking, and lifting moderately heavy items, such as record boxes.
- Perform other duties as assigned as part of a small, flexible and collaborative organisation.
Benefits
- 100% employer paid medical coverage option and dental insurance for employee and eligible dependents.
- 100% employer paid life insurance, AD&D, Group Specified Disease, and Group Accident, and long-term disability insurance for the employee.
- Employer-funded Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA).
- 403(b) retirement savings program with a 7% employer contribution commencing on the first day of employment, plus up to 5% employer matching.
- Reimbursement for eligible relocation expenses from the employee's designated home location, subject to prior approval.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
