At-Sea Fisheries Technician

Closing Date: on-going recruitment

The Southwest Lobster Science Society (SWLSS) is seeking qualified candidates to join our team as At-Sea Fisheries Technicians. The At-Sea Fisheries Technician positions are seasonal with locations throughout Nova Scotia. This position is considered to be physically demanding as the majority of the work is performed at sea in various weather conditions. At-Sea Fisheries Technicians are required to travel and must have the ability to work flexible schedules including irregular hours during weekdays, evenings, weekends and holidays. Fieldwork involves exposure to all types of weather and sea conditions, as well as working in fast moving and relatively confined environments aboard fishing vessels of varying sizes. As such, the At-Sea Fisheries Technician position is best suited for those who have experience working at sea.

Position Overview:

Duties and Responsibilities:

•         Participate in At-sea bycatch data collection onboard lobster fishing vessels.

•         Communicate and/or confirm deployment locations and times with vessel Captains.

•         Collect and record accurate bycatch data as per Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s (DFO) requirements including: species identification, measurements of finfish and crustaceans, fishing coordinates, trap depth, gear types, photograph unfamiliar species etc.

•         Collect at-sea biological data on lobsters including identification of male and female lobsters, carapace (body) lengths, shell hardness, and visual observations for injuries using standardized sampling protocols.

•         Record and submit field data to the Program Coordinator in a timely manner.

•         Assist with other project functions as needed, such as equipment maintenance.

•         Adhere to SWLSS’s operational and safety protocols.

Desired Qualifications:

A range of work experience and educational backgrounds will be considered, however, those candidates with experience working at-sea will be considered an asset.

•         Previous experience working at sea.

•         Experience within the fishery sector or with biological data collection.

•         A meticulous mindset for collecting accurate and consistent data in the field.

•         Marine Emergency Duties (MED) certificate is considered an asset.

Mandatory Requirements:

•         Must possess valid driver’s license AND own means of transportation.

•         Must possess a mobile phone.

•         Compile and collect neat, accurate, and consistent data.

•         Basic computer skills.

•         Familiarity of handheld Global Positioning System (GPS).

•         Knowledge of basic arithmetic and data collection to meet sampling protocol requirements.

•         Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.

•         Detail oriented and have strong organizational skills.

Physical Demands:

•         Able to handle varying sea conditions.

•         Able to lift crates of minimum 50 pounds.

•         Able and willing to spend long periods at sea.

Salary:

Day rate between $275 - $375 plus mileage and incentives based on the candidate’s experience, education, and overall suitability for the position. Meal allowance will be provided when applicable.

To Apply:

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume describing your experience to southwestlobster@gmail.com.

We thank all applicants for applying and advise that only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.