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Messiah College

Coastal Marine Fisheries Scientific Technician - Scientific Tech 2 - Career Seas

Messiah College, Washington, District of Columbia, us, 20022

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You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job. Coastal Marine Fisheries Scientific Technician - Scientific Tech 2 - Career Seasonal - *01095-25

Title- Coastal Marine Fisheries Scientific Technician Classification- Scientific Technician 2 Job Status- Full-Time / Career Seasonal Season Length- 7 months– April 1 – October 31 WDFW Program- Fish Program – Marine Fish Science Division Duty Station- Forks, Washington – Clallam County As part of the Fish Program’s Coastal Marine Fish Science Unit, this position plays a critical role in collecting and analyzing data on Washington’s commercial and recreational marine fisheries. This role involves dockside sampling, at-sea research, and processing marine fish age structures to support sustainable fishery management. The data gathered directly informs the WDFW, the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC), and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), contributing to stock assessments and management plans for over 100 groundfish species and 10 coastal pelagic species. By supporting responsible fisheries management, this position helps sustain economically valuable marine resources and protect species under federal rebuilding plans. What to Expect- The

Coastal Marine Fisheries Scientific Technician

will: Dockside Sample Marine Fish Landings at Washington’s Coastal Ports, Primarily at La Push and Neah Bay, and Secondarily at Ilwaco, Chinook, and Westport: Collect biological, catch, and effort data from commercial and recreational groundfish fisheries, commercial coastal pelagic species (CPS) fisheries, and research projects. Gather biological information, including weight, length, sex, maturity, genetic tissue samples, and ageing structures from various marine fish species. Evaluate catch composition and species distribution in fishery landings. Identify approximately 100 groundfish species and 10 coastal pelagic species found along Washington’s coast. Track fishery activity to meet sampling goals. Process Samples in Laboratory: Process fins (dry, cut, mount), otoliths, and other fish structures or tissues for age reading or other scientific evaluation. Participate in At-Sea Research Surveys of the Marine Fish Species: Deploy on multiple single-day trips or extended trips of up to six (6) days aboard agency research vessels, chartered research vessels, or commercial fishing vessels. Complete preseason preparations and postseason wrap-up assignments. Collect fishing effort and catch composition data. Gather biological data (e.g., weight, length, age structures, genetic tissue samples). Accurately identify fish species. WORKING CONDITIONS: Work environments may include at-sea aboard vessels, coastal beaches and estuaries, fish buying facilities, recreational or commercial fishing docks, laboratories and office settings. At-sea duties may take place on agency-owned, chartered or commercial fishing vessels in unprotected coastal waters where sea conditions can deteriorate quickly. Tasks must be completed in any sea state deemed safe by the vessel captain and lead biologist. Extended at-sea trips may last up to six (6) days, with limited accommodations. Work may be conducted in rough seas, severe inclement weather, and on slippery, uneven, steep, or moving decks and docks. Physical demands include climbing steps/ladders, frequent and repetitive lifting of up to 50 pounds unassisted over a 10-hour work shift. Schedule: Fieldwork : No set schedule (24/7), heavily dependent on ocean conditions and vessel schedules. At-Sea Surveys : May require up to 14-hour workdays and over 40 hours per week. Dockside Sampling:

Typically follows a 4-day 10-hour (4x10) schedule, including weekends. Office/Lab Work:

Typically, Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM or a 4x10 schedule. Travel Requirements: Travel varies based on project needs and may involve multiple overnight stays. Extended travel of up to one (1) month may be required to accomplish at-sea surveys. Customer Interactions: Engage with the public while conducting port sampling, providing basic information on fisheries resources, agency programs, and activities. Coordinate with commercial skippers, crew, and research biologists and scientists from state and federal agencies during research surveys. QUALIFICATIONS: Required Qualifications: Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science,

AND

two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1. OR Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science

AND

two (2) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist. OR Please Note: College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the course work includes at least six semester or nine quarter hours of natural or environmental science classes. Certifications/Licenses: Valid driver’s license. Preferred Qualifications: General knowledge of commercial fishery landing and processing operations. Knowledge of commercial and sport fishing marine gears, methods and regulations. Working knowledge of marine fish sampling techniques and random sample design. Your application should include the following: A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements. A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate. At least three professional references with current contact information. Supplemental Information In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. Union-WAFWP: This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

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