Fisheries Outreach Specialist

ERT, Inc. is hiring a Fisheries Outreach Specialist in Pascagoula, MS to support fisheries stock assessments and management in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. Responsibilities include assisting with fishing gear construction, conducting outreach and training for fishers and law enforcement, performing inspections, and providing vessel support. Candidates should have experience in net construction and small boat operation, with a requirement to obtain a USCG license.
ERT is seeking a Fisheries Outreach Specialist to support fisheries stock assessments and ecosystem-based fisheries and protected species management in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, southeastern Atlantic (South Atlantic), and Caribbean regions. This position is based in Pascagoula, MS and will provide support within the Gear Unit.

Responsibilities

Harvesting Unit Gear Support: Assist with construction and maintenance of selective fishing gear such as TEDs and BRDs used as training aids for fishers and for use in Unit research projects.

Harvesting Unit Research: Provide gear expertise and assistance in support of Unit research projects to include fishery independent and dependent evaluations of modified fishing gear for the reduction of bycatch.

Vessel Support: Operating and maintenance of Class A, I and II Mississippi Laboratory research vessels; obtaining and maintaining a USCG License for the Operation of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (6-Pack) as well as all necessary training required per the NOAA Small Boat Program; and performing trailering of vessels or other large/heavy loads across rural and/or interstate highways.

Outreach and Education to Fishers and Marine Law Enforcement: Work as a member of the SEFSC Gear Monitoring Team and shall have the following responsibilities:
• Assist in conducting workshops and training sessions for commercial fishers in the proper use of federally required fishing gear within the coastal States of the Gulf of Mexico. This work may be conducted through planned workshops, attendance at industry meetings and dockside visits.
Conduct training for federal and state marine law enforcement groups in the proper procedures for inspecting federally required fishing gear. Prepare reports as required of all outreach and training activities.
• Conduct at-sea and dockside inspections of TEDs and record information regarding technical compliance with federal regulations.
• Perform trawl repair (sewing) and read and understand trawl construction diagrams. Assist with construction and maintenance of TEDs used for GMT missions.
• Assist the Gear Monitoring Team Leader in developing technical, instructional, and oral presentations and printed information using computer and multimedia equipment.
• Provide effective oral and hands-on demonstrations/presentations to commercial fishers and marine law enforcement regarding the proper use and construction of the TEDs.
• Assist the team leader in the preparation of reports that will be required for all outreach and training activities.
• Assist in responses to oil spills or events that require a response on an emergency basis to support protection of sea turtles. Work with the NOAA Fisheries sea turtle stranding coordinator, NOAA Office of Law Enforcement and state agencies to assist in directing where outreach, education and enforcement efforts should be focused.

Other General Duties: Support general Unit tasks including equipment maintenance, warehouse and shop maintenance, cleaning and organization.

Requirements
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in net construction and repair
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in operating and maintaining small boats and associated equipment.
• Within one-year of hiring, ability to obtain a United States Coast Guard License for the Operation of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (6-Pack license) and Transportation Worker Identification Credential, also known as TWIC card
• Ability to maintain 40-hour HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard) compliance certification
• Ability to acquire and maintain RED CROSS Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Basic First Aid certifications
• Ability to write summary trip reports and read and understand federal fisheries regulations.
• Physical ability to embark and disembark unassisted between a dock and a stationary vessel and between two vessels in motion at-sea using both hands and feet.
• Ability and willingness to maintain all necessary certifications and training as required by the NOAA Small Boat Program

Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident who has lived in the United States at least 3 out of the last 5 years and be able to pass a background investigation to obtain a security badge to access applicable government facilities and systems.

Desired
• Working experience in the commercial shrimp trawl fishery or net shop
• Knowledge of selective fishing methods and technology for commercial fishing
• Experience in conducting public outreach events and public speaking
• Basic computer skills; ability to use word processing software

Education
HS Diploma, or equivalent.

Work Location
Work will be based on-site at NOAA's Pascagoula, MS facility.

Benefits
All full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits upon starting: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Paid Time Off, and 11 Paid Federal Government Holidays.

ERT is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer - All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.