Fisheries Observer Trainer Needed
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Integrated Statistics is looking for a Fisheries Observer Trainer to work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Fisheries Sampling Branch (FSB) Northeast Fisheries Observer Program (NEFOP).
The Fisheries Observer Trainer works with the fisheries observers who are sampling onboard commercial fishing vessels from Maine to North Carolina, USA. The data that is collected by observers is tracked, edited, audited, and uploaded to a master database by NEFOP staff. The data is provided to a variety of end-users and stakeholders for use in fisheries management decision making.
To maintain adequate observer coverage, observer training sessions are conducted on a semi-regular basis, as required. The training sessions are required to teach specific NEFOP Observer Program and At-Sea Monitoring data collection protocols, and to certify observers/monitors for deployment. NEFOP, At-Sea Monitoring Program (ASM), and Industry Funded Scallop Program (IFS), though new programs and certifications may evolve in response to scientific, management, and industry needs. Trainers are based at the Observer Training Center in Falmouth, MA, though some exportable training sessions may be conducted off-site and so some travel is required.
The trainer’s responsibilities include:
- Acting as a Lead Instructor for NEFOP fishery-specific protocol instructions, and as a secondary instructor for other fishery protocols as needed.
- Training observers on a number of program protocols, by preparing and delivering presentations and observer materials that effectively teach observers how to use program logs and protocols. Instructors may be required to teach various NEFOP components (NEFOP Observer, Industry Funded Scallop Observer, At-Sea-Monitors, end users, etc.).
- Assisting in training and instructing observers in the use of electronic data collection hardware/software.
- Performing training trips, acting as lead instructor during trainings and supporting all at-sea training session gear types offered.
- Assisting with the development and updating of training curriculum and presentations.
- Assisting with the organization and coordination of training materials, supplies, grades, agendas, schedules, logistics, travel, training workshops (local and exportable), and invited participants.
- Performing data debriefer duties to become familiar with protocols for all observed fisheries.
- Developing methods to improve training, i.e. developing new training aids, analyzing observer performance, and developing new training methods. Assisting in the development of programs and processes to enhance data quality and the efficiency of the training program, such as e-learning, modular training, etc.
- Assisting with monitoring observer performance once new trained observers begin training trips, and working with NEFOP data debriefers to track performance.
- Providing student evaluations and continuous feedback to the Training Lead on each training session.
- Working with NEFOP staff in the development of new protocols.
- Communicating with newly trained observers to obtain feedback to be used to improve future training sessions.
- If not already certified as an observer, and depending on the trainer's certification types, completing observer certifications and perform observer duties at sea (up to five trips per year) to gain familiarity with protocols, data collection, observer responsibilities, and the issues observers encounter while working as a government representative in a field setting.
- Assisting other instructors with fish collection, fish identification lab sessions during observer trainings. Assisting the Species Verification Program (SVP) by acting as a fish identification specialist, including tracking and entering data related to the SVP.
- Assisting in the organization of marine mammal necropsy labs and sea bird and turtle identification lab sessions during observer trainings.
- Working with other NEFOP staff and outside experts to develop new training tools and lesson plans.
- Reviewing and editing raw data logs for completeness and accuracy; contacting observers to verify inconsistencies and solve data recording problems as needed.
- Assisting with periodic regional outreach events as assigned.
- Working periodic overtime and weekend assignments, sea time, and travel.
- Working periodic regional outreach events.
Qualifications
- B.S. degree in Marine Biology, Fisheries, or a related field.
- Previous or current NEFOP observer experience is highly desired. Experience in Northeast fisheries (trawl/gillnet/scallop) and familiarity with the Northeast Observer Program is very desirable.
- Familiarity with Northeast fish and marine mammal species. Strong fish identification skills and experience.
- Higher educational degrees are desirable.
- Experience as instructors, trainers, or curriculum designers is preferred.
- Adult teaching experience or exposure to active training techniques is desirable. Experience in curriculum development is preferred.
- Must be motivated, self-sufficient, independent, and a strong team player.
- Ability to perform at-sea observer-related duties. Candidates without such experience must attend and pass the first available observer training session.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word).
- Strong math skills to assist with subsample protocol training.
- Experience with web development, e-learning, ORACLE database use and design, electronic data collection systems, First Aid/CPR, and/or at-sea safety training/familiarity are desirable.
- Travel is required. Sea time is required.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
As part of the selection process, candidates will be asked to give a brief (10-15 minute) presentation.
The rate of pay is $21-23/hr and the position is eligible for the benefits described on the Integrated Statistics website.
This position will be posted until position is successfully filled.
Integrated Statistics is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local law. Consistent with its obligations under federal law, Integrated Statistics is committed to taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified women, minorities, disabled individuals, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and other eligible veterans. For assistance with accessibility of applications, posters, forms, and/or documents, please email the Integrated Statistics office.
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