Under general supervision, the incumbent in this position will support biological and technical staff during the collection of data used to manage Georgia’s marine fisheries. Incumbent will be responsible for all duties associated with the development and execution of the Georgia Reef Fish Observer program. Primary responsibilities will include: recruiting captains of federally permitted For-Hire vessels to participate in the program; scheduling and completing ride-along trips on for-hire vessels fishing in federal waters; collecting trip level information and data for species caught including species name, length, rig number and type, hook type, plus level of barotrauma, release method, and release condition for any fish released; adhering to rigid survey protocols/deadlines; entering data after each trip is complete; quality control review of data to ensure accuracy; and participating in other surveys within the Marine Fisheries Division. A substantial portion of the above will occur during non-traditional work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays with the potential for extended hours and occasional overnight travel. Starting salary will be determined based on qualifications and experience.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate’s degree or equivalent coursework (90 quarter hours or 60 semester hours) in Marine Sciences or related field from an accredited college or university.
OR
High school diploma or GED
AND
Two years of experience in the Coastal Resources Division as a Marine Technician 1 (NRT051) or position equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference may be given to applicants with:

1. Experience working aboard small to medium fishing vessels in offshore waters, potentially during adverse weather conditions
2. Strong organizational and time management skills including the ability to work independently under minimal direct supervision
3. Experience collecting and managing fisheries data (standardized form/questionnaire)
4. Knowledge of fishing methods, gear, and regulations in southeastern Atlantic states and federal waters
5. Experience identifying and/or collecting scientific data for southeastern Atlantic marine finfish (e.g., Commercial/recreational fishing industry or research)
6. Bachelor’s degree in marine fisheries, marine science, ecology or related field

Note: Please direct questions about this position to Dawn Franco at dawn.franco@dnr.ga.gov or (912) 266-4156.

Application Process

If interested in applying for this position, please submit an electronic DNR Application for Employment to the e-mail address highlighted below or mail a completed DNR Application for Employment to the following address:

Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Coastal Resources Division
C/O Gale Kennedy
One Conservation Way, Suite 312
Brunswick, GA 31520-8687
CRD.CRDDNR@dnr.ga.gov (Please include the position title in the subject) or Fax: (912) 262-3131