Research Operations Specialist III (ROS3)
About The Position
CPC is seeking a Research Operations Specialist to support the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) team and the Chief Scientist. ONMS manages complex ecosystems and works to ensure compatible multi-use activities for future generations. The Chief Scientist anticipates managers’ needs and ensures the best available science informs resource-management decisions through scientific coordination, research, and partnerships with federal and state agencies, academics, nongovernmental organizations, and industry. The role provides scientific capacity at national, regional, and site levels, supporting administration, partnership development, data acquisition, analysis, synthesis, and report writing. Near-term organizational priorities include assembling and synthesizing data about sanctuary habitats, resources, stressors, and users; understanding their status, trends, and projections; and developing tools that make this information accessible to resource-protection staff and leadership. This is a full-time, non-exempt position based at NOAA ONMS or CINMS headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, or Santa Barbara, California, primarily in the office rather than virtual. Occasional field studies may require extended travel and may require obtaining and maintaining NOAA diver status.
Requirements
- Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in a marine-science-related field, such as biology, zoology, oceanography, ecology, geology, geography, or environmental science.
- At least 3 years of experience in statistical and geospatial analysis.
- Background in marine sciences and data analysis.
- Experience with data management.
- Ability to work effectively on team-based and independent projects.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills and keen attention to detail; a technical writing sample is required.
- Strong organizational skills.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with R is preferred.
- SCUBA certification (NAUI, PADI, or equivalent) with at least 30 dives; ability to comply with NOAA diver certification standards and process.
- Comfort operating from small and large research vessels.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds to help transport equipment and gear.
- General institutional knowledge across NOAA.
- Ability to use AI to handle routine tasks and provide innovative solutions.
Responsibilities
- Assist ONMS teams with preparation and review of the ONMS Conservation Science Series and scientific publications, vessel fleet allocation, the Nancy Foster Scholarship, and scuba coordination.
- Provide national- and regional-level analytical support and guidance related to sampling design, research, characterization, and monitoring.
- Support field operations, including diving or vessel support for sites and regions needing additional personnel.
- Collect and analyze geospatial information on sanctuary resources and uses; provide basic GIS and cartographic support, including maps of habitats, resource distribution, management boundaries, and uses.
- Participate in headquarters meetings, engage with headquarters staff, and maintain a headquarters presence.
- Provide general support to the Chief Scientist, including scientific review of management plans and policy documents; responses to science-related information requests from congressional, NOAA, NOS, or ONMS leadership; scientific copyediting; and oversight of updates to scientific website content.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
