Commercial Dockside Sampler

Job Description

Job Description

At Saltwater Inc. we believe that high-quality data is vital to the health of our fisheries and oceans: our mission is to provide that data. We are a Women-Owned Small Business and are constantly seeking new team members who share our passion for innovation and environmental wellness.

We are currently recruiting for Commercial Dockside Sampling Support . We are looking for two full-time and one half-time positions. This position will work as a contractor for NOAA’s Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC) Fisheries Statistics Division (FSD). The FSD ensures the quality of collected data through compilation, quality control, and assurance. Organizing, maintaining, and developing databases (like bioprofile, logbook catch record, and head boat activity report databases). Performing data analyses and extractions to support stock assessment activities (like SEDAR), general scientific inquiries, and annual reports summarizing landings and effort estimates. Developing and implementing electronic reporting systems like the Fisheries Electronic Reporting System (FERS).

Please note that we are recruiting proactively and do not yet have this position available. If awarded the work, these will be either full time or part time positions. Work will be performed at any coastal location in the Southeastern US from NC to TX. The contract has a one-year base period with a potential of three option periods. 

TASKS:

Data Management Support:  The Contractor shall engage in bio sampling and data collection operations consisting of the following:

• Collect lengths, weights, and biological samples (primarily, but not limited to, otoliths) from a subset of commercial fisheries catches, and recreational headboat catches when requested.
• Collection and sampling protocols shall follow protocols defined in the current Trip Interview Program (TIP) and Southeast Region Headboat Survey (SRHS) User’s Guides.
• Data shall be collected on paper forms or on tablet computers (provided by the government) at the discretion of the Government.
• Data collected on paper forms shall be data entered into the Trip Interview Program System (TIPS) or SRHS web applications as applicable.

Deliverable:

• Collection of lengths, weights, and biological samples (primarily, but not limited to, otoliths) from a subset of commercial fisheries catches. Amount of samples shall be 1% of total catch year weight.
  • Data collection must occur proportionally to the commercial (and recreational headboat, if requested) fishery activity of the area.
  • All data collected shall be provided to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch TIP data coordinator. Biological samples shall be provided to the appropriate processing facility.

Laboratory Support:  The Contractor shall engage in laboratory inspection, processing, and shipment of biological samples collected during sampling operations. The task includes the following: 

• Prepare biological samples using proper cleaning, packaging, and labeling procedures as detailed in the TIPS and SRHS User’s Guides.
• Prepare the paperwork for shipping via ground and air carriers, using accounts established by the Government. The Contractor shall arrange for the pickup of the samples with the carrier, when necessary.

Deliverable:

• Preparation of samples for shipment
• Bio samples shall be cleaned, packaged, and labeled no later than one week from the date of collection.
• Verification that samples are ready for shipment shall be provided to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch
• Shipment of samples
• Bio samples shall be shipped to the receiving entity no later than the 30th of the month when data proofing/crosschecking has been completed.
• Bio samples collected from the Gulf of Mexico, and all samples from King and Spanish mackerel, will be sent to the Panama City Laboratory. South Atlantic bio samples (excluding mackerels) will be sent to the Beaufort Laboratory.

Data Management Support:  The Contractor shall use custom data entry applications and standard database software to enter, view, and edit field data.

• Enter data into the TIPS or SRHS Web portals. All required information (fisherman’s licenses, vessel identification numbers, and dealer licenses) will be provided to the TIP or SRHS coordinator if the information is necessary for data entry.
• Run monthly audits of data using the QA/QC tool in TIPS. Flagged protocol issues will be addressed by contact with the Standardization Lead or the TIP Coordinator.
• Proof data entry by 1-2 other data collectors in TIPS. This will consist of reconciling data in the systems vs data on the Collector’s paper data entry form.
• If requested to participate in SRHS, will monitor the industry and submit Headboat Activity Reports (HARs) on a weekly basis, as well monitor vessel elogs, and communicate with vessels regarding reporting compliance.

Deliverable:

• Enter data collected during dockside bio sampling into the TIPS or SRHS web portals.
• Data will be entered no later than the last day of the month subsequent to the month of collection (e.g., data collected in July must be entered by August 31st
• All data collected shall be provided to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.
• Monthly audits and QA/QC.
• Data will be audited and QA/QC processes run as soon as monthly data entry is complete.
• Any irreconcilable issues shall be provided to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.
• Monthly data proofing.
• Proofing process shall be complete by the end of the second month subsequent to data collection.
• Data forms shall be provided to the proofing employee; proofed data shall be marked as such in the TIPS web portal.
• Weekly completion of HARs, vessel eLog review, and vessel compliance calls (SRHS)
• Processes should be completed weekly by each Friday
• HARS, eLog reviews, and compliance correspondence should be provided to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.

Outreach and Education:  The contractor shall participate in public outreach efforts and shall have the following responsibilities:

• Participate in SEFSC-sponsored or participating outreach events such as Open Houses, Youth/Career Fairs, etc. in order to explain port sampling goals and methods to the public.
• Assist FTE staff with any sampling training sessions for new hires or TIP Partner agencies.
• Attend any training sessions or conferences deemed necessary to acquire updates to sampling protocols and technology. Such trainings/conferences may be in person or via webinar/conference call.

Deliverable:

• Public Outreach
• All materials such as presentations, handouts, lesson plans, etc. must be submitted for approval 5 days prior to public presentation.
• All materials shall be provided to theChief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.

• Training Sessions
• All training materials such as presentations, handouts, lesson plans, etc. must be submitted for approval 5 days prior to class presentation.
• All materials shall be provided to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.
• Attend training
• Where travel is required, submit travel requests as detailed by contract.
• Travel requests shall be provided via the COR to the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.

Experience and Education:

Essential:

• MS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study or BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus three (3) years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of applying basic concepts, principles and methodologies of fish or related biological field sufficient to independently perform scientific tasks using standard methods and techniques.
• Proficient in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys;
• Computer literate and experienced with common word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs.

Desirable:

• Experience collecting catch and effort information from commercial or recreational fishermen .
• Knowledge of collection of routine biological samples (lengths, age structures, gonads, etc.) from marine fish.

Salary range is $30 - $45 per hour, dependent upon experience.

Saltwater Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, parental status, veteran status, or disability status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace culture to attract the best talent and allow each member of our team to achieve their full potential and maximum productivity. Furthermore, Saltwater Inc. highly encourages qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply for positions for which they are qualified and to notify us if there are any needs for accommodation throughout the application process and/or upon hire.

Only qualified applicants with the requisite experience need to apply. 

We will honor all requests for application confidentiality.