Fisheries Observer Instructor Needed

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• 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.).
• Serving as a Lead Instructor for NEFOP fishery-specific protocol instructions, and as a secondary instructor for other fishery protocols as needed.
• Assisting in electronic data collection protocols, training and instructing observers in the use of electronic data collection hardware/software.
• Performing training trips as lead instructor during trainings and supporting all at-sea training session gear types offered.
• Assisting with 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), safety training, and invited participants.
• Performing data debriefer duties (edit data) and becoming familiar with protocols for all observed fisheries.
• Developing methods to improve training, i.e. developing new training aids, analyzing observer performance, and developing 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, track training, training trip role, safety training, etc.
• Assisting with monitoring observer performance once newly trained observers begin training trips. Working with NEFOP debriefers to track performance.
• Providing student evaluations and continuous feedback to the Training Lead on each training session to include training trip and safety training.
• Working with NEFOP staff on the development of new protocols.
• Communicating with newly trained observers to obtain feedback to be used to improve future training.
• Assisting other instructors with fish collection, fish identification lab sessions during observer trainings, and, as a fish identification specialist, working with the Species Verification Program (SVP), including the tracking and entering of data related to the SVP.
• Helping to organize 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 to include training trip role and safety training.
• Reviewing and/or editing raw data logs for completeness and accuracy; contacting observers to verify inconsistencies and solve data recording problems as needed.
• Deploying as needed for shadow trips, trip trainer trips, and probation/priority (Data Quality) trips.
• Assisting with all facets of observer safety training, which may include: coordinating with safety training coordinator; assisting with safety training agenda development; co-teaching safety training as requested; scheduling pool time; participating in pool exercises; scheduling vessels used for safety training with training lead; evaluating observer performance; preparing observer exercises, homework assignments, workshops, quizzes, exam questions, and audiovisuals; reviewing and correcting exercises, quizzes and assignments; contacting and scheduling industry and in-house participants; and preparing training aids, audiovisuals, and gear models.
  
• Assisting at periodic regional outreach events.
• Taking responsibility for program development and training of programs consisting of the following: conflict resolution; incident reporting; seaday schedule; vessel selection; fisherman’s panel; port tour orientations,etc.
• Program development and training for new and developing programs such as Industry Funded Monitoring (IFM).
• Program development and training for Joint Enforcement Agreement (JEA) training.

• A 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, and strong fish identification skills and experience, is preferred.
• Higher educational degrees and adult teaching experience or exposure to active training techniques is desirable.
• Experience in curriculum development is preferred. It is favorable for applicants to possess some experience as instructors, trainers, or curriculum designers.
• Recent Federal employment or contracting for a Federal agency is beneficial, given the various security training and clearances.
• Must have the ability to perform at-sea observer-related duties. Candidates without NEFOP observing or editing experience must attend and pass the first available observer training session.
• Depending on certifications, may need to complete observer certification and then perform observer duties at sea (up to 5 trips per year) in order to become familiar with protocols, data collection, observer responsibilities, and the issues observers encounter while working as a government representative in a field setting.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word).
• Additional preferred skills include: web development, e-learning experience, ORACLE database knowledge, various electronic data collection system familiarity, First-Aid/CPR certified, at-sea safety training/familiarity.
• Must be motivated, self-sufficient, and independent, as well as a strong team player.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Must be available for periodic overtime and weekend assignments. Must be able to travel for training sessions.

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