Description:
@Orchard is hiring a Biological Technician Level II to support NOAA Fisheries’ Ecosystem Surveys Branch (ESB). The Biological Technician will collect and process biological samples and environmental data during fishery-independent resource surveys. Work includes at-sea survey participation (100+ days annually), data QA/QC, sample processing, and equipment support. This is a hands-on science role that directly supports stock assessments and ecosystem-based fisheries management. This is a full time position supporting both at-sea surveys and lab activities.
Responsibilities:
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Participate in sea-going surveys aboard NOAA and partner vessels (sorting, identifying, weighing, measuring fish/invertebrates, collecting biological samples for age, growth, maturity, genetics, diet).
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Stand scientific watches of up to 12 hours/day at sea.
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Operate electronic data acquisition systems for fisheries and oceanographic sampling.
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Assist with deployment, calibration, and maintenance of survey gear, acoustics, and optical/video equipment.
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Conduct QA/QC of survey data using NOAA protocols; prepare documentation of sampling procedures and metadata.
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Annotate benthic imagery and optical survey data as directed.
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Maintain, repair, and inventory sampling hardware (measuring boards, motion-compensated scales, barcode systems, touch screens).
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Support cruise staging/de-staging, equipment prep, and vessel logistics.
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Contribute to laboratory analysis of biological samples and assist with database management.
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Train new staff and provide leadership of field parties/watches at sea when required.
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Summarize survey data, assist with reports, and contribute to outreach materials (manuals, protocols, blogs, newsletters).
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Complete the biological audit of survey data after the completion of the survey.
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Manage and maintain inventory required for the survey.
Requirements:
- Minimum 2 years’ experience identifying fish and invertebrates in the Northwest Atlantic.
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At least 1 year of experience with survey bottom trawls or shellfish dredges.
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Experience with fishery sampling hardware (electronic boards, scales, barcode systems).
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Experience working aboard research or commercial vessels.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently.
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Ability to work 12-hour shifts at sea for trips lasting up to 3 weeks.
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Strong teamwork and communication skills in challenging field environments.
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Must meet NOAA OMAO sea duty health criteria and provide proof of recent TB test.
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Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with data entry and QA/QC practices.
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Valid driver’s license.
Compensation: Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
If you are a motivated individual with a passion for continuing your work with NOAA, we want to hear from you!
@Orchard is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
