Ocean Associates Inc.

OAI is hiring up to two physical scientists to support NOAA Office of Coast Survey (OCS) Coastal Marine Modeling Branch (CMMB). Successful candidates will be involved in development and testing of shelf-scale and regional operational ocean data assimilation and forecast systems. These systems provide forecasts of the currents, temperature and salinity within the US Exclusive Economic Zone, and are used as guidance for navigation, fisheries operations, search and rescue, and environmental hazard response. Outputs from these forecast systems provide boundary and initial conditions information for higher resolution coastal ocean models. The immediate focus will be on testing improvements in the US West Coast Ocean Forecast System (WCOFS), considering improvements to model physics and data assimilation schemes. The OCS’s Coast Survey Development Laboratory (CSDL) manages the development and improvement of charting, hydrographic, and oceanographic systems used by OCS, the Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services, and other NOS offices/programs. CSDL reviews and interacts with research and development programs in private industry, universities, and government, both nationally and internationally. Based on its awareness of state-of-the-art technical developments, CSDL recommends and develops future methods and systems to enhance NOAA and the quality and usefulness of its products. The NOS Storm Surge Modeling team within CSDL develops modeling techniques and infrastructures for end users to perform disaster risk assessments and prediction capabilities to reduce and mitigate coastal vulnerability. These physical scientist positions will provide overall support to this team and assist in the design and development of an operational coupled hydrodynamic and wave modeling system. Required Skills /Education/ Certifications & Qualifications: Ph.D. in Computer Science, Atmospheric Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Oceanography, Physics, or a related field, and a minimum of 4 years of directly related experience; or a MS/MA plus a minimum of 8 years of directly related experience; Knowledge/understanding of mathematical concepts relevant to data assimilation theory (e.g., multivariate calculus, linear algebra); Understanding of oceanographic processes such as tidal and wind driven flows, upwelling, and the transport and mixing of riverine flows; Experience developing and running environmental (ocean circulation, weather, hydrological, engineering flow) computer models (e.g, ROMS); Strong programming skills in Matlab and/or Python. Preferred qualifications: Experience with Fortran, MPI, and Linux; Experience working in high performance computing environments; Background in data assimilation schemes in oceanographic, atmospheric, or geophysical contexts; Familiarity with satellite and in-situ oceanographic observations. Salary:   This is a full-time position. Wage range is $37 to $58 per hour. Overtime is not anticipated. Comprehensive benefits package. Location: NOAA Facilities in Silver Spring, Maryland (NOAA Headquarters); Seattle, Washington; and Norfolk, Virginia. If necessary or found feasible by the government, contract staff may also be located at other NOAA facilities. Remote work may be approved on a case-by-case basis. Start Date:   As soon as possible. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for the past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI), together with our teaming partner, IBSS, seeks full-time Coastal Modelers to support National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (CO-OPS) in Silver Spring, MD. CO-OPS is the authoritative source for accurate, reliable, and timely tides, water levels, currents, and other coastal oceanographic and meteorological information. If you are looking to be an instrumental part of a growing, employee and customer-focused company working on exciting issues in environmental science and other marine/coastal resources, we want to hear from you! Key Responsibilities: Assist CO-OPS with the transition and implementation of a new hydrodynamic coastal model based historical reanalysis system, simulating water levels and waves for the past 40 years. Assist and contribute to upgrades to the coastal model. Lead the development of new CO-OPS products, and enhance existing products, using the hydrodynamic model output. Analyze the output from coastal models (those in operation or development) to assess the skill of the nowcast and forecast guidance. Evaluate model predictions against observations, or assess the integration of model output with other products and services. Act as a subject matter expert on nearshore water level and wave observations used for model validation Salary:   This is a full-time position. Wage range is $35.00 to $40.00 per hour. Overtime is not anticipated. Comprehensive benefits package. Location:   Telecommute and/or remote Start Date:   Upon completion of background checks. Required Skills /Education/ Certifications & Qualifications: Master’s degree in oceanography, meteorology, hydrology, or a closely related discipline plus eight years of relevant experience in hydrodynamic modeling on high-performance computing systems. A PhD and four years of experience in one of the above fields may be substituted for the master’s degree and eight years of experience. Must understand oceanographic principles, theories, and practices, as well as oceanographic, atmospheric, riverine, and/or hydrologic models. Extensive computing skills (e.g., Python, shell scripts, Fortran, MATLAB) Experience with High Performance Computing systems Proficiency with the Microsoft Windows and Linux operating systems, Microsoft Office applications, and Google’s Collaboration Suite (e.g., Docs, Sheets, and Slides). Experience in oceanographic and model data analysis, validation, and assessment using statistical methods. Strong oral and written communication skills Demonstrated ability to work well independently and as part of a team, are required. Must have strong organization skills, attention to detail, and a demonstrated ability to self-manage their workload and meet deadlines. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Applicants must have a Green Card, Permanent US Residency, or US Citizenship to gain access to Supercomputer capabilities required for CO-OPS Coastal Modeler positions. Preferred: Familiarity with ADCIRC, SWAN, and Similar hydrodynamic models (e.g., the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS), Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM), SCHISM) Experience transitioning hydrodynamic models into operational applications. Experience with AWS or other cloud computing platforms. General database and query experience. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a candidate to provide National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) support to the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources (OPR) in Silver Spring, MD. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. .Duties and Responsibilities: Develop NEPA documents in support of permitting activities under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).. Review and provide expert advice and comments on draft NEPA documents written by others. Advise and guide OPR staff in NEPA document development for approval by management prior to implementation Conduct internal scoping to assist in determining the appropriate level of NEPA analysis Provide advice and recommendations to OPR leadership on NEPA matters, including final reviews of NEPA documents and recommendations for approval. Qualifications: Bachelor of Science degree or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major directly related in a field of study. Three (3) years of experience in related field to the stated duties, or combination of education and experience totaling seven (7) years. Education beyond Bachelor’s degree can be substituted for experience. Knowledge of National Environmental Policy Act and Council on Environmental Quality regulations for implementing NEPA Knowledge of one or more of the following statutes: Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, Endangered Species Act, and Marine Mammal Protection Act Experience preparing and/or reviewing categorical exclusions, environmental assessments, finding of no significant impacts, environmental impact statements (EISs), and/or record of decisions for actions taken under one or more of the following statutes: the Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, Endangered Species Act, and/ or Marine Mammal Protection Act to ensure compliance with NEPA Experience providing advice on compliance with NEPA for actions taken under one or more of the following statutes: Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, Endangered Species Act, or Marine Mammal Protection Act Experience determining the level of NEPA analysis required for actions taken under one or more of the following statures: the Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, Endangered Species Act, or Marine Mammal Protection Act Experience developing NEPA policies, templates, or guidance documents Salary and Benefits: This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary: $45.00 to $50.00 per hour. Start Date: As soon as possible Location:   Work may be conducted offsite. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking a Shellfish Researcher to provide support to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Northwest Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, WA. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services, and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Background There has been considerable research regarding the ecosystem effects of shellfish farming in temperate waters of the Atlantic and Pacific coast in recent years. This research includes interactions with submerged aquatic vegetation, fish and invertebrates and effects on water quality. In Washington state, there are over 250 shellfish farms across over 700 sites, most of which are located in Puget Sound. A priority in Puget Sound is the conservation of nearshore habitat, including wetlands, submerged aquatic vegetation, estuaries, and tidal zones that make up some of the most valuable habitat for the region’s salmon and steelhead and overlap in some places with shellfish farming. Unfortunately, much of nearshore habitat in Puget Sound is lost or degraded, with more than 90 percent of tidal wetlands lost to development. That leaves salmon without essential nursery habitat they need to feed and grow strong to boost their later survival in the open ocean. This is especially concerning for Puget Sound Chinook salmon, which is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. To help address this situation, NOAA Fisheries recently developed the Puget Sound Nearshore Habitat Conservation Calculator (Nearshore Calculator). The calculator can be used to determine how much restoration is needed to offset the impacts of nearshore development. The calculator determines changes in habitat value in a common currency that represents habitat impacts as debits, and habitat improvements as credits. Developers can then offset debits with an equivalent number of credits, avoiding further net loss of nearshore habitat. Credits may come from improvements undertaken as part of the same project or from improvements in other areas in the Puget Sound region. NOAA Fisheries is in need of assistance to help consider additions to the Nearshore Calculator to account for ecosystem effects of shellfish aquaculture in Puget Sound, based on best available science. Description The employee will coordinate with the Northwest Fisheries Science Center and West Coast Region of Fisheries (Central Puget Sound Branch & Oregon/Washington Aquaculture Coordinator) to assist with the following key tasks: Literature Review/Calculator learning: Compile and conduct an assessment of relevant literature to inform ecosystem effects of shellfish aquaculture. Assess relevance to shellfish aquaculture in the US portions of the Salish Sea including all five marine basins delineated as service areas for use with the Nearshore Calculator. Synthesize and communicate findings to scientific, management and industry audiences. Invest in in-depth learning of the nearshore calculator and Section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act, including how the calculator works, the underlying literature, data inputs, analytical approach and how it is applied to aquaculture projects. Deliverables are:Finalized list of literature and folders with PDF copies of each study. Summary files with annotations of key results and conclusions from each source. Tables, figures, presentation materials for presenting results to different audiences. Contribute to NWFSC teams that are working on related projects by participating in meetings, completing assignments, and contributing to products. Gain Regional Expertise: When possible, conduct site visits to regional shellfish farms to gain an understanding of aquaculture practices. Take photos of gear and growing practices at each site, pending permission of the grower. When possible, join research teams in the field to promote awareness of ongoing research applications. Deliverables are:Library of photos taken at each site visit that document different types of shellfish growing practices and ongoing research. Effects of Aquaculture:   Using results from Task 1 and 2, evaluate how benefits/impacts from different aquaculture techniques affect Physical and Biological Features (PBFs) for salmon based on best available science. Evaluate if these benefits/impacts are generally included in the indicator effect pathways outlined in Ehinger et al 2023. Amend the indicator effect pathways description as appropriate for aquaculture. Detail if any relevant indicator effect pathways may not be included and how they could be added in an update. Deliverables are:List of benefits/impacts of shellfish aquaculture are generally included in the indicator effect pathway outline in Ehinger et al., 2023. Amend recommended indicator effect pathway description(s), as applicable. Recommend any relevant indicator effect pathways that may not be included, and how they could be added following the format and methodology in Ehingher et al. 2023. Prototype Development: For aquaculture techniques for which the most relevant indicator effect pathways are considered in the Nearshore Calculator, evaluate if current tabs allow for appropriate quantification of impacts. For those applications, develop demonstration examples of how shellfish aquaculture activities that require federal permitting may be addressed by the Nearshore Calculator. Demonstration growing methods shall include shellfish on-bottom culture, flip bag culture, long-line culture, geoduck culture and co-culture with seaweed and infrastructure associated with shellfish culture, such as buoys, nearshore hardening/boat launches, etc. Deliverables are:For each demonstration example, develop a document that describes each proposed idea for integrating ecosystem effects into decision making tools. Provide supporting evidence (data, references) to justify each idea. Draft Recommendations: Based on steps one through four, develop proposed additions/adjustments to the calculator for shellfish projects. Present draft recommendations for feedback from applicable Northwest Fisheries Science Center and West Coast Region of Fisheries staff. Deliverables are:Consult with NWFSC and WCR staff to solicit peer review of demonstration examples. Develop key questions for reviewers to address in the review process. Electronic copies of all peer review comments received. Develop Guidance: Develop instructions to NOAA Fisheries Staff regarding how these adjustments to the calculator can be incorporated for use by NOAA staff, tribes, the public and other stakeholders. Deliverables are:Based on results of peer review, offer guidance on when and how to implement the recommended additions and adjustments. Guidance may be in one or more formats, including but not limited to in-person work sessions, webinars, small meetings, written documentation, etc. Communication: Share results, conclusions, guidance with interested and relevant audiences, including relevant conferences and meetings. In collaboration with NOAA staff, provide an overview of findings for regional aquaculture and marine habitat teams, tribes, the public and other stakeholders. Develop a synthesis manuscript for publication in a peer reviewed journal that includes the literature review findings and relevant results regarding how this information might be used to inform management tools and calculators. Deliverables are:Communications products including but not limited to:Presentation files (PowerPoint, Google Slides, etc.) and presentations at relevant science and management meetings. Manuscript drafted for submission to peer reviewed journal that integrates literature review and application to management tools. Collaborative engagement with communications teams on webstory, newsletter and social media content, as applicable. Monthly progress report to include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following: accomplishments, issues encountered, travel (including purpose, significant outcomes, action items), and recommendations, if applicable. Start Date:   As soon as possible Location:   Northwest Fisheries Science Center Seattle, WA or the associated Manchester Research Station, Manchester, WA Travel:   Travel is anticipated to support field research, meet with collaborators, and present results at a regional workshop or scientific conference. Travel will be in WA, OR, CA, or ID. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary, commensurate with experience, between $38.00 - $42.00 per hour. Requirements Applicants must have the following minimum requirements: Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major directly related in a field of study as related to the requirements of this specific task order with emphasis in fisheries, oceanography, social science, natural science, mathematics, or hydrology, plus five (5) years of experience in related field or combination of such totaling nine (9) years combined education and experience. Master’s Degree in related field plus one (1) year experience or Ph.D. may be substituted for experience. At least four years of academic research experience focused on fish populations, shellfish, submerged aquatic vegetation and/or nearshore habitat data. Experience working in estuary or nearshore habitats on the west coast. Experience with shellfish aquaculture practices and submerged aquatic vegetation (eelgrass and/or kelp). Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Familiarity with R or ArcGIS, modeling and data analysis, and experience writing and publishing peer-reviewed articles. Familiarity with approaches and tools used by managers to value habitats Knowledge and expertise of NOAA Fisheries policies and programs Experience with planning, and Federal financial management and operations Working with diverse interdisciplinary teams Current MS Office skills Valid driver's license Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking two candidates to assist the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Communications. This office is primarily responsible for effectively communicating NOAA efforts through proactive communication of its scientific research results and NOAA’s top objective is coordinating strategic communications on a national level. On a day-to-day basis, the office provides strategic communications expertise and advice to agency leadership and staff. OAI supplies personnel support services on contract to government and industry clients. This is a full-time position based on 40 hrs/week with generous employee benefits. Hourly rate is commensurate with experience. The positions need to be filled as soon as possible. DUTIES: The employees will assist with strategically communicating and supporting NOAA’s core missions. Tasks will include: Create public relations communications products (news releases, fact sheets). Develop non-technical content for the web using science writing expertise and journalistic style that is easily understood by a non-technical audience. Develop communications plans and campaign targeting specific audiences. Produce presentations to help managers and scientists convey complex information to non-technical audiences, Develop digital content strategies that will contribute to multiple blog posts, articles, and national social media platforms. Help organize and run stakeholder meetings, both live and virtual engagements, for specific initiatives across the agency. Develop graphics and illustrations, such as infographics, that enhance digital and print communications, such as engaging news releases, fact sheets, online media, and presentations. Create infographics to tell stories visually and convey complicated/detailed information, particularly data. Identify critical media and press opportunities to promote the organization's initiatives, products, and services. Collaborate with internal teams to gather information and ensure accurate representation of the organization's activities. Ensure all communication materials adhere to the organization's brand guidelines and messaging. Monitor communication initiatives, gathering relevant metrics and data. Prepare regular reports on the effectiveness of public relations efforts and suggest improvements based on analysis. Activities require partnering with the creative team to determine the overall creative message that is brand consistent. Start Date: ASAP Location:   Work may be performed remotely, with on-site assistance at the NOAA Headquarters address if required. Reimbursement of home office expenses (e.g. phone, computer, internet, and electricity) will not be authorized. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary: $35.00 to $41.00 per hour. In case of a catastrophic event, weekend work may be required. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor of Science or Arts degree with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with up to 10 years total relevant experience. Experience managing and supporting the implementation of client objectives, requirements, and programs. Support activities may include strategy development and communications that include public relations, news conferences, digital content creation, social media, and other outreach activities. Experience researching, conceptualizing, writing, proofreading, and editing original content and digital experiences about scientific topics. Experience managing overall communications, strategic direction, and guidance for implementing client objectives, requirements, and programs. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking applicants to provide Fish Health Lab support to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC), Newport Research Station in Newport, OR. We are seeking applicants for this position prospectively, which is dependent on award of contract. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services, and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Background The Environmental and Fisheries Sciences (EFS) Division performs research that addresses the influence of factors such as vaccines, dietary supplements, temperature, and contaminants on disease and predation of fish. This research addresses and supports NOAA Fisheries and NWFSC research agendas, including: presidential executive order, EO#13921 Promoting American Seafood Competitiveness and Economic Growth; National Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Research’s Objective 3.1 to “Develop strategies to protect the health and well-being of aquaculture species”; and NWFSC’s 5–10 Year Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Science’s recommendation to support finfish aquaculture and bolster aquatic animal disease research and expertise. The development of finfish aquaculture relies on the rearing of healthy fish. Disease occurs during commercial culture, wasting valuable time, resources, and products. Disease management issues will only increase as global temperatures and demand for aquaculture products increase. The EFS Division conducts research in the areas of aquatic animal health and disease in order to assess and minimize the impact of diseases on both important cultured and wild species. These areas of research are important to the Center’s research programs with finfish and shellfish aquaculture as well as characterizing disease interactions between and among both wild and cultured species. Disease of aquatic species can severely impact the health of both cultured and wild aquatic species at various life stages. Description Conduct both basic and applied research in the areas of aquatic animal health and disease in order to assess the impact of stressors and mitigating treatments on both cultured and wild aquatic species. These topics are important to the Center’s various aquaculture research involving finfish and shellfish, as well as to characterizing environmental interactions between, and among, wild and cultured aquatic species. Tasks The employee will perform the following key tasks: Task 1 Husbandry of multiple aquatic species The employee shall perform husbandry for aquatic species (e.g., salmon, sablefish) reared and held at the laboratory facility. Required husbandry practices shall include cleaning tanks and troughs, changing filters, feeding aquatic species, moving and distributing aquatic species, monitoring growth of aquatic species and adjusting feeds and densities as needed, measuring water quality parameters, monitoring and maintaining system processes (e.g., heaters, chillers, pumps, filters) in order to produce healthy finfish and shellfish. Task 2 Laboratory organization and operation Properly organize the laboratories, noting when supplies and resources need re-stocking, and maintaining needed safety and chemical hygiene practices. The employee shall maintain and organize laboratories, which includes having labs: with properly maintained and operational laboratory equipment; in compliance with the Center’s safe chemical hygiene practices, updated online chemical database, and properly labeled chemicals; and with personnel and equipment adhering to laboratory safety practices. The employee will assist property manager and purchasing agent with laboratory and office property inventory, and consumables requests in order to maintain NOAA property records and ensure that labs are stocked with general and assay-specific consumable supplies. Task 3 Pathogen challenge The employee shall participate in determining and analyzing pathogen challenges of fish, which includes culturing pathogens of fish/shellfish in agar and broth media, characterizing the pathogen using a variety of techniques (e.g. media culture, spectrophotometer, PCR) and properly storing frozen bacterial stock for later experiments. The employee shall expose fish/shellfish to pathogens, collect samples by necropsy, collect mortalities, record data, and analyze results using established laboratory protocols in R Studio. The employee shall monitor mortalities over time. Autoclave waste at the end of experiments. Task 4   Assistance with laboratory experiments The employee shall assist in method optimization and utilization of various assays in order to evaluate factors that may alter aquatic species health. Optimizing methods may include determining and obtaining experimental baselines for positive and negative controls, and range-finding of appropriate treatment levels in pilot studies. Method utilization involves applying assays in larger scale experiments using live aquatic species, tissues, and/or factors that may affect their health, e.g., stressors, pathogens, vaccines, feed additives. Assays can include the use of specialized equipment, such as spectrophotometer, video cameras, distillation glassware apparatus, microplate readers, etc. The employee shall construct graphs and tables of associated data using standard desktop graphics packages for use in reports, presentations at meetings, and conferences, and for preparation of peer reviewed publications. The contractor shall be responsible for scientific writing and editing of sections of annual reports and peer-reviewed publications with staff scientists. Start Date:   Start date is contingent on award of contract. Location:   NOAA/NMFS/NWFSC, Newport Research Station, Newport, OR Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary, commensurate with experience, between $30-40/hr. Requirements Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications: Master’s degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major directly related in a field of study as related to the requirements of specific task order outlined below with emphasis in fisheries. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Additional preferred requirements: Experience in working with diseases that affect aquatic species. Experience in fish husbandry practices of aquatic species, and knowledge of water quality issues that may affect aquatic species. Experience in applying microbiological, chemical, and behavioral techniques that are applied to research questions on fish health. Seven (7) years or more experience working in a laboratory setting. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking candidates to support the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources for duties associated with the preparation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultations. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. DUTIES: Conduct analyses and research to enable consultation under Section 7 of the ESA. Review action agency documents and provide technical assistance to Federal action agencies as part of ESA section 7 consultations. Critically analyze scientific literature, agency documents, and other applicable information to assess impacts of activities on protected species and develop/evaluate mitigation and monitoring to support agency findings under the ESA. Perform record-keeping and other documentation tasks to ensure compliance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and other applicable statutes. Start Date: TBD Location:   Telecommute, work may be performed offsite. Salary and Benefits:   These are full-time positions with a generous benefit package. Salary: $33.00 to $37.00 per hour. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field and 7 years of relevant experience. Years of education beyond Bachelor’s Degree can be substituted for experience. Documented evidence of education and/or experience in one of the following: environmental regulations and the Federal regulatory process; environmental sciences, biological sciences (fisheries biology/ecology; marine mammal biology/ecology; sea turtle biology/ecology; and/or marine biology/ecology), ecological risk assessment or environmental impact analysis, scientific project management. Preferred experience in one or more of the following fields: infrastructure, fisheries, offshore wind, acoustics, water quality, toxicology, coastal modeling, noise, freshwater systems. Strong technical writing and communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking candidates to support the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources for duties associated with the preparation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultations. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. DUTIES: Assist Federal staff in conducting analyses and required research to enable consultation under Section 7 of the ESA. Assist Federal staff in providing technical assistance to Federal action agencies as part of ESA section 7 consultations. Critically analyze scientific literature, agency documents, and other applicable information to assess impacts of activities on protected species and develop/evaluate mitigation and monitoring to support agency findings under the ESA. Perform record-keeping and other documentation tasks to ensure compliance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and other applicable statutes. Start Date: TBD Location:   Telecommute, work may be performed offsite Salary and Benefits:   These are full-time positions with a full range of benefits. Salary: $26.00 to $29.70 per hour. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field and one year of relevant experience Documented evidence of education and/or experience in one of the following: environmental regulations and the Federal regulatory process; environmental sciences, biological sciences (fisheries biology/ecology; marine mammal biology/ecology; sea turtle biology/ecology; and/or marine biology/ecology), ecological risk assessment or environmental impact analysis, scientific project management. Preferred experience in one or more of the following fields: infrastructure, fisheries, offshore wind, acoustics, water quality, toxicology, coastal modeling, noise, freshwater systems. Strong technical writing and communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking applicants for a full-time position to provide Management Strategy Evaluation support to the Ecosystem Dynamics and Assessment Branch of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center, within NOAA Fisheries. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Background NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is responsible for the conservation and management of our Nation’s living marine resources and their habitats. By developing high quality science and supporting an ecosystem-based approach to management, NMFS provides important services to the Nation, including sustainable fisheries, healthy ecosystems, safe seafood, and protected species recovery. The U.S. leads the world in sustainable fisheries management; as a result, U.S. fisheries are highly valuable and make large contributions to the U.S. economy. Under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), NMFS works with the eight regional Fishery Management Councils (FMCs) to provide scientific advice on the ~500 federally-managed fish stocks. NMFS stock assessments and other science products are critically important to sustainable fisheries management for assessing the status of fish stocks and predicting future harvest levels, setting sustainable catch limits, and reducing bycatch. NMFS recently codified its commitment to Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management (EBFM) with the release of their EBFM policy and subsequent EBFM Roadmap. The EBFM Policy establishes a framework of guiding principles to “enhance and accelerate the implementation of EBFM within NOAA Fisheries, and in cooperation with NOAA Fisheries partners.” These guiding principles are: implement ecosystem-level planning, advancing our understanding of ecosystem processes, prioritizing vulnerabilities and risk of ecosystems and their components, explore and address trade-offs within an ecosystem, incorporate ecosystem considerations into management advice, and maintain resilient ecosystems. The Ecosystem Dynamics and Assessment Branch (EDAB) conducts a research program focused on developing ecosystem-level knowledge and advice to support informed decision-making. Research conducted by the Branch encompasses climate science, ecology, process-oriented ecosystem research, and marine population dynamics and ecosystem modeling. The Branch is responsible for conducting analyses of the effects of natural and anthropogenic pressures on the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem (NES LME). EDAB also develops and applies ecosystem and statistical models to synthesize information on climate, oceanographic, and human-related pressures. These products are provided to a variety of entities to inform decision-making and to support the implementation of regional and national EBFM. These entities include NOAA, other federal and state agencies, Regional Fishery Management Councils (hereafter, Councils), Marine Fisheries Commissions, research colleagues, nongovernmental organizations, national and international treaty organizations in which the U.S. participates, and the fishing industry (both commercial and recreational). The functions of EDAB are divided into four (4) focal areas: ecosystem reporting; ecosystem and statistical modeling; climate and habitat modeling and remote sensing; and Management Strategy Evaluation. This position will focus on Management Strategy Evaluation. The Branch supports the application of Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE), a stakeholder driven process that allows various management procedures to be tested   in silico   before implementation. This includes the use of analytical tools developed as part of the ecosystem and statistical modeling focal area. The Branch provides technical expertise to management entities, such as a Regional Fishery Management Council, in order to conduct an MSE. A typical application of an MSE consists of using an operating model or set of models that incorporate sufficient complexity to simulate variability in a state process (e.g., fish population, ecosystem or economic dynamics) along with an estimation model to perform a simulated analysis based on virtual data collection. The results of the estimation model are fed back into the operating model based on predetermined management procedures. In this way, performance of alternative management strategies can then be examined across a suite of pre-specified objectives. Stakeholder engagement is critical to clarify objectives and performance metrics, parameterize the human component of the system, and to ensure investment in the process. Tasks: Provide technical support during a Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE) (often under tight time constraints) for models developed under Ecosystem and Statistical Modeling Development focal area.Collaborate broadly with NEFSC, Clients, and others as applicable to strategize and prioritize tasks. Coordinate acquisition, formatting, and data quality checking of new information identified by stakeholders and required for MSE model development. Identify and prioritize software in need of updates and maintenance. Update and/or work with software developers to ensure model tools meet MSE needs. Assist with planning and logistics of program and project team meetings/workshops and help develop agendas, written documents, meeting minutes, presentation, or other materials as required. Support communications and outreach activities.Provide written contributions to outreach products, including responses to questions, reports, scientific documents, and web-based communication for audiences both within and external to NMFS. Communicate the results of projects and activities to general and scientific audiences in written and oral formats. Organize and participate in symposia at national and international conferences and workshops. Start Date: ASAP. With federal onboarding procedures likely after July 1st. Location:   On site at one of the NEFSC Laboratories in Woods Hole, MA or Narragansett, RI is preferred. Fully remote with in the region may be possible. The expectation is to commute to the office 1-2 times per month, and for important meetings. Travel:   Domestic and international travel may be required as follows: attendance at regional fishery management council meetings, project-related workshops and working group meetings, and presentations at scientific conferences. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position. Wage range is $28-31/hr. Overtime is not anticipated. Comprehensive benefits package. Required Qualifications: Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree with two (2) to three (3) years’ experience (directly related to the individual requirement) in marine science, fisheries, quantitative ecology, oceanography, or similar. Ability to interact effectively and diplomatically with a wide range of stakeholders (fishing industry, recreational interests, environmental NGOs, managers, interested public) during public workshops and meetings. Knowledge and/or experience with R statistical software. Other software such as python, SAS, MATLAB, and others are also beneficial. Experience and understanding of code versioning software, such as Git, SVN, mercurial, and others. Experience in linking existing oceanographic and ecological models or ecological and economic models together is highly desirable. Knowledge and/or experience with population modeling. Familiarity with how stock assessments work.Understand the inputs/outputs of assessment models and how the environment/ecosystem can influence stock processes. Demonstrated proficiency for the following skill sets:Project management for complex and technical scientific programs Coordinating and leading diverse project teams to develop, improve, and achieve project goals Communication both verbally and using written materials (including visual presentations) with a variety of audiences including technical, scientific, and the general public Independent worker with strong time management skills Adaptability to quickly changing priorities and strict timelines Attention to detail Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking applicants for a full-time Investigative Support position to support the Pacific Island Regional Office (PIRO) in Honolulu, HI. We are seeking candidates for this work prospectively, which is dependent on award of contract. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services, and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Background The Office of Law Enforcement (OLE) for the Fisheries Division under the Pacific Island Region is required to maintain a Vessel Monitoring System, or VMS, which tracks vessels in a similar way to AIS, but has historically been restricted to government regulators or other fisheries authorities. Several countries have released their VMS publicly on the Global Fishing Watch map. VMS systems broadcast positions are set intervals and some systems allow operators to increase transmission frequency when needed. Some vessels broadcast both AIS and VMS so information from both systems can be combined to give a higher resolution vessel track. This is required to assist the OLE staff with managing administrative activities which are focused primarily on Investigative Support. Internal administrative support will also be required to ensure organizational excellence and safety. The employee will be required perform all duties necessary for administrative support, which includes tasks such as answering phones, maintaining files, and distributing information, while assisting with daily tasks, such as updating and organizing files, preparing documents, spreadsheets, forms and running reports. Description Key tasks include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Receive and route incoming phone calls. Monitor and respond to work-related email (Gmail), chat (Google chat), and calendar (Google calendar) tasks or queries. Update and maintain office’s VMS dashboard (semi-automated Google sheets), enter data in sheets as new updates arrive (typically via email) and periodically upload new spreadsheets to replace outdated sheets in accordance with local standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generate on-demand or recurring reports in law-enforcement and/or VMS databases in accordance with local standard operating procedures (SOPs).Note: SQL or other advanced database skills or tasks are NOT required for this position. All database tasks required (basic searches, report generation, etc.) will be performed using basic plain text, date or numbers in simple, user-friendly graphic-user-interface (“GUI”) law-enforcement-related or VMS software applications. Perform data entry to process case packages in the law enforcement system in accordance with local Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and online case-processing manual. Assist (approximately once per two weeks, and normally with another individual) with the collection of sample audits of VMS-related obligations for compliance, in accordance with local standard operating procedures (SOPs). Note: this is just a visual check of the vessel location at dock compared to the location (text data) reported in VMS. Enter text and date data related to “VMS audits” into an online (website) interface in accordance with local standard operating procedures (SOPs). Enter provided data into template documents and send the completed documents or forms to appropriate office(s) via email in accordance with local standard operating procedures (SOPs). Utilizing provided data in a data-entry software interface, complete Investigative Support or VMS-related requisition forms, and route them via email to appropriate point(s) of contact, in accordance with local standard operating procedures (SOPs). Start Date:   TBD Location:   Honolulu, HI Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary, commensurate with experience. Wage range is $23-30/hr. Requirements Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications: High school diploma plus two or more years of related experience. Relevant post-high-school education or training may be substituted for experience. Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, filing, and data entry. Valid United States Driver’s License. Ability to work independently and with attention to detail. Ability to work with databases, relational databases. Knowledge of Google Suite of office products. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking applicants for a full-time Aquaculture, Marine fish, and shellfish Biologist position to support the NOAA Manchester Research Station in Port Orchard, WA. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services, and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Background The purpose of the Aquaculture and Marine Fish and Shellfish Biology Program is to study biological questions pivotal to the sustainability of natural marine fish and shellfish populations and their artificial propagation for aquaculture. The goal is to utilize information gained from studying wild populations to enhance aquaculture. In reverse, information gained from experiments on artificial propagation can be used to understand the dynamics of wild marine fish and shellfish populations and to aid in their management. Our science is used by commercial and NGO partners to enable and optimize their aquaculture operations. Description The employee shall culture marine fish and shellfish. The employee shall be required to participate in the construction and maintenance of life support systems for the culture of marine fish and shellfish and in the propagation and husbandry of adult larval marine fish and shellfish. The employee will be expected to maintain records of the physical characteristics of life support systems and of the animals being maintained in those systems. Task 1 – Life Support Systems The employee shall be responsible for the building, plumbing, maintenance and repair of marine egg, larval, and adult fish and shellfish holding and culture systems including recirculation aquaculture systems (RAS), flow-through tank systems, and net-pen systems at the NOAA Manchester Research Station. Task 2 – Animal Husbandry The employee shall perform routine husbandry of fish and shellfish egg, larval and adult holding and culture systems including cleaning and disinfecting tanks, incubators, silos, and all associated plumbing. The employee shall perform routine maintenance of nets and feed containers on net-pens. Task 3 – Live Feeds The employee shall be responsible for the production and feeding of live feeds (e.g., rotifers, artemia, and algae) for fish and shellfish and in the production and feeding of diets to adult fish and shellfish. Task 4 – Data Collection The employee shall collect data during the spawning and rearing of fish and shellfish. This shall include tagging fish, assessing growth, and any other variables measured during experiments conducted by NOAA scientists on marine fish and shellfish adults, larvae, and eggs. The employee shall also collect daily, weekly, and monthly data on the physical and chemical parameters of the life support systems. Start Date:   ASAP Location:   NOAA Manchester Research Station, Port Orchard, WA. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary, commensurate with experience, between $22 and $26/hr. Requirements Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major in fisheries biology, zoology, environmental studies, aquaculture, or a related field, plus at least 2 years of experience in the task order duties. Knowledge and/or experience in rearing and maintaining fish and shellfish in culture. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Additional preferred qualifications include: Knowledge and/or experience in rearing live foods for marine fish including rotifers and artemia, and algae for shellfish. Knowledge and/or experience in spawning fish and shellfish. Knowledge and/or experience in incubation of fish eggs, and fish and shellfish larvae. Knowledge and/or experience in plumbing related to fish and shellfish rearing systems. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking applicants for a full-time Green Sturgeon Recovery Coordination position to support the California Central Valley Office (CCVO) in Sacramento, CA. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services, and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Description The California Central Valley Office (CCVO) requires support to assist with critical needs for recovery of Southern Distinct Population Segment (sDPS) green sturgeon: green sturgeon science expertise (about 50% of the time) and green sturgeon recovery planning implementation (about 30% time). The applicant is also required to stay apprised of broader Central Valley fisheries and science efforts (20% of time). Tasks The employee shall provide technical support such as: Review and analyze biological assessments, providing the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) with an analysis of how a project would impact green sturgeon. Provide NMFS with conservation recommendations and suggested recovery actions for green sturgeon to the CCVO, which is implementing the NMFS Recovery Plan for the Southern Distinct Population Segment for the North American Green Sturgeon. The employee shall support CCVO outreach/education of the public to increase understanding of and exposure to green sturgeon presence in the Central Valley. The employee shall work with NOAA partner agencies on sturgeon science and help identify opportunities for useful studies and information application. The employee shall attend Interagency Ecological Program meetings to stay current on and advocate for science and monitoring efforts that advance the understanding of green sturgeon biology and ecology, and assist NOAA in leveraging opportunities for increased green sturgeon science understanding. The employee shall attend Interagency Ecological Program meetings to stay apprised on the broader Central Valley fisheries monitoring efforts as they relate to CCVO actions and provide meeting notes from these meetings to the CCVO. The employee shall co-lead a CCVO recovery team, providing the team with recommendations for incorporating the green sturgeon recovery plan into the CCVO’s work. The employee shall provide technical support, as directed, for the 5-year status review for green sturgeon. The employee shall provide technical review of sturgeon-focused applications submitted through the ESA state 4(d) and 10(a)(1)(A) research programs, and the ESA Section 6 and Tribal grant programs. The employee shall support CCVO staff in strengthening application of green sturgeon science to Endangered Species Act consultations and analyses. The employee shall provide support for science-based Central Valley structured decision making efforts, especially to contribute to accurate inclusion of green sturgeon and a multispecies approach. Start Date:   ASAP Location:   California Central Valley Office, Sacramento, CA. Off-site may be considered based on candidate qualifications if approved by NOAA. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary, commensurate with experience, between $28.50 and $34.50/hr. Requirements Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major in fisheries biology, coastal science, or environmental science. Graduate degree strongly preferred. At least seven years of paid, volunteer, or student research experience in a fisheries field. Expertise in green sturgeon life history in the California Central Valley. Expertise in the Endangered Species Act section 7 consultation process Program planning and management in a team environment Basic computer skills (MS Office, etc.) Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a candidate to submit in response to a request for proposal to support the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC) Environmental Fisheries Science (EFS) Division’s Aquaculture and Marine Fish and Shellfish Biology Program. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. Description The EFS Division examines the impact of diseases on fish and shellfish, and how different species/stocks, temperature, and anthropogenic stressors (e.g., contaminants) can alter the impact of disease. The Aquaculture and Marine Fish and Shellfish Biology Program is focused on biological questions pivotal to the sustainability of natural marine fish and shellfish populations and their artificial propagation for aquaculture. The goal is to utilize information gained from studying wild populations to enhance aquaculture. In reverse, information gained from experiments on artificial propagation can be used to understand the dynamics of wildmarine fish and shellfish populations and to aid in their management. Our science is used by commercial and Non‐ governmental organization (NGO) partners to enable and optimize their aquaculture operations. Research of the EFS Division addresses at least three NWFSC research themes and several foci under those themes, including:   i)   sustainable, safe, and secure seafood for healthy populations and vibrant communities;   ii)   ecosystem approach to improvemanagement of marine resources; and   iii)   habitats to support sustainable fisheries and recovered populations. The EFS Division conducts research in the areas of aquatic animal health and disease to assess the impact of diseases on both important cultured and wild species. These areas of research are important to the Center’s research programs with finfish andshellfish aquaculture and also assist in characterizing disease interactions between and among both wild and cultured species. Disease of aquatic species can severely impact the health of both cultured and wild aquatic species at various life stages. Understanding disease dynamics requires knowledge of the epidemiological triad that consists of the host (fish/shellfish), the environment of the host and the disease‐causing pathogen that the host may contact.Aquatic animal health management requires knowledge of host immunology, molecular and microbiology, and how the environment interacts with pathogens and hosts to influence disease outbreaks. The employee shall conduct research in the areas of aquaculture and aquatic animalhealth and disease and manage laboratory activities associated with a fish health and immunology laboratory. This will include assessment of the impact of diseases on both important cultured and wild fish and shellfish species. The employee will specifically perform vaccine and immunology research, diagnose and characterize disease agents, culture bacterial, viral, and parasitic fish/shellfish organisms, and utilize a range of molecular and microbiological assays to address important research questions. These areas of research are important to the Center’s research programs with finfish and shellfish aquaculture as well as characterizing disease interactions between and among both wild and cultured species. Tasks Key tasks include the following: 1. Laboratory management and organization The employee shall assist in set up, maintenance, and daily organization of a laboratory and be expected to operate specific equipment (e.g. qPCR, PCR cyclers, biosafety hoods, incubators, centrifuges, etc.). The employee shall keep the labappropriately stocked with general supplies, maintain laboratory equipment in properworking order, maintain safe chemical hygiene practices, assist the property manager with laboratory inventory, adhere to laboratory safety practices, ready hazardous waste for disposal, label chemicals, and provide general lab training to personnel as needed. 2.   Fish disease challenge and host immune response analysis The employee shall participate in disease challenge studies and in determining andanalyzing disease challenge studies of fish, which includes culturing pathogens of fish/shellfish, characterizing the pathogen using a variety of techniques (e.g. PCR/qPCR, ELISA, and eDNA techniques), assessing host immune response using molecular and standard assays, and properly storing frozen bacterial or viral stocks for later experiments. The employee shall expose fish/shellfish to aquatic pathogens, collect samples by necropsy, and record data. The employee shall monitor mortalities over time. Autoclave waste at the end of experiments. The employee shall be proficient in all aspects of molecular and immunological methods, laboratory disease challenges, and techniques such as SDS‐PAGE, Western blotting, 2‐D PAGE, histology, ELISA, qPCR, etc. 3.   Determine the degree of phenotypic variation in host response The employee shall optimize methods for determining the degree of phenotypic variation in host responses to various pathogens and environmental influences. Optimizing methods may include determining and obtaining an appropriate pathogen,determining the appropriate concentration of the pathogen, and determining optimal water temperature for optimal mortality. Environmental influences examined may include contaminants, ocean acidification, temperature, and predators. 4.   Fish husbandry of both finfish and shellfish The employee shall work with the aquaculture team and periodically assist with husbandry for both finfish and shellfish as needed. This may include raising artemiaand rotifers, cleaning tanks, feeding fish, and measuring water quality parameters necessary to produce healthy finfish and shellfish for performing experiments. Start Date:   Estimated to start in Summer 2023 Location:   Northwest Fisheries Science Center, Manchester Research Station, Port Orchard, WA. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary commensurate with experience between $28 and $42/hr. Travel:   Travel is anticipated for this task order. Travel will be required for regional meetings and conferences to discuss and present project related research in the US and beyond. Requirements The following minimum qualification is required: Master’s degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a majordirectly related in a field of study as related to the requirements of specific task order outlined below with emphasis in fisheries. Additional required qualifications shall include: Experience in working with pathogens that affect aquatic species. Experience in fish husbandry practices of aquatic species, and knowledge ofwater quality issues and diseases that affect aquatic animal health. Experience in applying microbiological and molecular techniques to researchquestions on fish health. Five (5) years or more experience working in a laboratory setting. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a candidate to submit in response to a request for proposal to support the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC) Environmental Fisheries Science (EFS) Division’s Environmental Chemistry Program (ECP). OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. Description The ECP at the NWFSC has conducted research on NOAA trust resources, focusing on developing state‐of‐the‐art analytical methods to generate high quality data neededto understand the effects of human and environmental factors on the health and ecology of aquatic organisms. These research efforts support assessments on the impacts of toxic contaminants in aquatic ecosystems and examination of predator‐prey relationships and their marine distribution. This knowledge is vital to the development of strategic management plans for NOAA’s marine and freshwater resources and includes developing advanced sampling and analytical methods for toxic contaminants and other chemical and biochemical markers; modifying existing analytical methods to measure chemical markers in a wide range of matrices and species; and establishing quality assurance protocols and criteria for analytical measurements. The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) established the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program (MMHSRP) (Title IV) in 1992. The MMHSRP operates in support of the Recovered Protected Species goal of National Marine Fisheries Services’ (NMFS) Strategic Plan. The NWFSC serves as the NMFS lead for the biomonitoring components and quality assurance of chemical analyses of marine mammals and their potential prey for the Program. Information generated by these components addresses deficiencies in data quality and quantity on the levels of toxic chemicals in marine mammals, refines methods and approaches for understanding linkages between exposure and specific biological effects (e.g., disease) or biological processes, and improves the dissemination of the information to constituents and resource managers. The collection and dissemination of these data increases our understanding of the causes of disease and mortality events in marine mammals and provides high quality data to assess the status and trends in contaminant accumulation by U.S. marine mammal populations. Furthermore, these data will provide a measure of the quality of their habitat. The work associated with this taskorder will enable the NWFSC to complete chemical tracer analyses of marine mammals and their prey in a timely manner and ensure that the data are of high quality for inclusion in peer‐reviewed reports and publications. The employee shall provide assistance in conducting studies on environmental factors affecting fishery resources, including exposure to pollutants, as it relates to the protection of NOAA trust resources including fish and marine mammals. The employee shall be responsible for assisting with marine mammal tissue collection as needed, tissue/fluid processing and preparation of marine mammals and their prey, as well asextraction and cleanup of marine organisms for carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios, chemical contaminants, including petroleum‐related polycyclic aromatic compounds and their metabolites, persistent organic pollutants, and other chemical tracers (e.g., lipids). Duties shall include sample preparation, sample extraction using an accelerated solvent extractor or solid phase extraction and cleanup of sample extracts using gravity flow cleanup columns and automated cleanup using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with size exclusion chromatography. Additional responsibilities of the employee shall include operation and assistance in maintenance of accelerated solvent extractors, HPLC system, gaschromatography/mass spectrometry (GCMS) systems, organization and maintenance of sample extract and sample freezer inventories, and assistance in writing sample preparation and analyses protocols for peer‐reviewed publications and reports. Tasks Key tasks include the following: Task One: The employee shall collect, prepare, extract, cleanup, and analyzesamples of marine fish and seafood (e.g., Pacific herring, salmonids, mussels) and associated quality assurance samples for persistent organic pollutants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and their metabolites, and lipid content using analytical protocols established by the NWFSC. The employee shall archive any remaining tissue samples and sample extracts in the appropriate storage area and maintainfreezer inventories of these samples and sample extracts. Task Two: The employee shall homogenize, freeze dry, and analyze marine fish andseafood samples (e.g., Pacific herring, salmonids, mussels), as well as the associated quality assurance samples, for carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratiosusing analytical protocols established by the NWFSC. The employee shall archive any remaining tissue samples in the appropriate storage area and maintain freezer inventories of these samples. Task Three: The employee shall assist NWFSC staff in operation and maintenanceof accelerated solvent extractors (ASEs), HPLC, and GCMS systems used in chemical tracer analyses of marine organisms and their prey, using protocols established by the NWFSC. Start Date:   Estimated to start in Summer 2023 Location:   Northwest Fisheries Science Center, Seattle, WA Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary commensurate with experience. Travel:   Travel is not anticipated for this task order. Requirements Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major directly related in a field of study as related to the requirements of specifictask order with emphasis in chemistry, fisheries, oceanography, social science, natural science, mathematics, or hydrology, plus three (3) years of experience in related field or combination of such totaling seven (7) years combined education and experience. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Additional preferred qualifications include: Experience in operating and maintaining accelerated solvent extractors (ASEs), high-performance liquid chromatographs (HPLCs), and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry systems (GC/MS). Experience in preparation, extraction, and cleanup of tissues of marineorganisms and their prey for determining trace levels (parts per billion) of chemical tracers using GC/MS, including persistent organic pollutants, petroleum‐related polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, as well as gravimetric lipid determinations. Experience in tissue sample preparation for analyses of stable isotope ratiosof carbon and nitrogen. This includes experience in freeze drying tissues. Experience in following performance‐based laboratory quality assuranceprotocols, including following clean‐laboratory practices for chemical tracer analyses. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred). Job Type: Full-time Salary: $25.00 - $37.00 per hour

Ocean Associates Inc. is looking for a Stock Assessment Specialist to work with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC). The Stock Assessment Specialist will work directly with staff in the NEFSC Population Dynamics Branch (PDB) on analyses of regional fishery stock assessments to produce estimates of stock status and reference points for a range of fish stocks. This work will support the Wind Development Impacts on Stock Assessments project. NOAA Fisheries conducts stock assessments of economically important marine resources to provide scientific information for the regional fishery management councils and other management partners. The Population Dynamics Branch supports development of new tools and software for stock assessment in collaboration with regional stock assessment scientists and the national Assessment Methods Working Group (AMWG). Development of new tools and software at the national level advances NMFS’ stock assessment science, improves standardization and ensures that development is completed to high levels of testing and documentation. Additionally, this effort supports a defined process for evaluating and operationalizing the development of new regional tools for inclusion in the NOAA Fisheries Toolbox (NFT). Many existing tools used by NMFS have been created in-house with varying degrees of generality, accessibility, testing, documentation, and best practices. Fish stock assessment models compute the historical levels of fish stock abundance and fishing mortality that are most consistent with observed trends in abundance data, the fish’s biology, and historical catch levels. Assessment models produce estimates of important fishery management factors and provide the technical basis for managers to determine stock status and set annual catch limits and other fishery management measures to maintain sustainable fishing and healthy ecosystems. The long-term fishery-independent Bottom Trawl Survey (BTS) operated by the NEFSC is used in many stock assessments to inform assessment models of relative trends in fish populations. Rapid development of offshore wind capacity in the waters off the northeast coast of the United States will reduce access of the BTS to historic sampling sites. Indices developed from the BTS play an important role in stock assessments and changes to its operations will affect our interpretation of population trends. In an attempt to quantify the impact of excluded sampling sites on fishery-independent indices, the stock assessment specialist will work directly with lead stock assessment scientists to develop an analytical approach to compare stock status and reference points without the excluded sites. Focus will be on species that use index-based assessment approaches, including silver hake (Merluccius bilinearis). The Stock Assessment Specialist will take the lead with exploration of modified survey data for fish stocks assessed by the NEFSC and work with a team of Population Dynamics researchers with experience in this topic. Duties The tasks include but are not limited to these duties: Explore the impact of restricted survey sampling locations on fishery-independent indices of abundance. Perform index-based single-species stock assessments and calculate reference points under the guidance of the lead stock assessment scientists. Conduct comparisons of stock status and reference points between assessment models using the existing and modified BTS indices. Present findings at workshops or conferences. Lead the publication of significant results in peer review journals. Start Date:   May 15, 2023 (flexible) Location:   Woods Hole, MA. The position may begin with a period of remote work, to accommodate pandemic restrictions. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with a comprehensive benefit package.Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, $35 - $41 per hour. Qualifications and Skills The Stock Assessment Specialist must: Possess a graduate degree in fisheries, quantitative ecology, or related field. Possess experience in the R programming language. Have familiarity with stock assessments or management of fish resources, including calculation of reference points. Course work in Fisheries, Marine Biology, Mathematics or Statistics is desirable. Possess the ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines with flexibility between tasks. Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills. Be capable of making presentations to various peer-review and management audiences. Be capable of working as part of a team. Be capable of working independently on analyses, and providing regular summaries and recommended next steps to the team based on results. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a candidate to support the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of International Affairs, Trade and Commerce (OIATC) in Silver Spring, MD. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. Background: The OIATC engages other countries bilaterally and through various multilateral international fisheries organizations to promote sustainable management of global fisheries resources in a manner consistent with U.S. domestic fisheries policy and competitiveness for U.S. fishermen and seafood producers. The OIATC has a broad mission in the areas of policy, regulation, seafood safety, and trade. Many OIATC priorities relate to combating IUU fishing, which significantly undermines U.S. and global efforts to sustainably manage fisheries and conserve marine resources. The OIATC requires support to assist the office in implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Import Rule and the Seafood Import Monitoring Program (SIMP). Duties: Assist in the development of compliance materials, and in the organization and execution of workshops, webinars, and teleconferences designed and intended to inform and support members of the affected public, including both international partners and domestic stakeholders, in their efforts to comply with the MMPA and SIMP. Provide advice and counsel to Office leadership and personnel on all aspects of efforts to support implementation of and compliance with, the MMPA Import Rule and the SIMP. Provide support to projects related to these programs as well as to the Moratorium Protection Act identification and certification process, the International Trade Data System, and other programs administered by OIATC. Start Date:   As soon as possible Location:   Silver Spring MD. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position with benefits. Salary: $90,000 to $96,000/yr. Required Knowledge and Experience Experience – 5+ years’ experience in policy or resource management related to protected species and fishery management Education – advanced degree (Masters or higher) Knowledge of bycatch issues, global fisheries, and understanding fishery and market interconnections Knowledge and experience with Marine Mammal Protection Act Import Rule and the Seafood Import Monitoring Program If you are interested in being considered for this position, please APPLY THROUGH OUR ADP WEB PORTAL, AT THE LINK AT THE TOP RIGHT OF THIS PAGE. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking applicants for a full-time position to provide ecosystem reporting support to the Ecosystem Dynamics and Assessment Branch of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center, within NOAA Fisheries. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Description: NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is responsible for the conservation and management of our Nation’s living marine resources and their habitats. By developing high quality science and supporting an ecosystem-based approach to management, NMFS provides important services to the Nation, including sustainable fisheries, healthy ecosystems, safe seafood, and protected species recovery. The U.S. leads the world in sustainable fisheries management; as a result, U.S. fisheries are highly valuable and make large contributions to the U.S. economy. Under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), NMFS works with the eight regional Fishery Management Councils (FMCs) to provide scientific advice on the ~500 federally-managed fish stocks. NMFS stock assessments and other science products are critically important to sustainable fisheries management for assessing the status of fish stocks and predicting future harvest levels, setting sustainable catch limits, and reducing bycatch. NMFS recently codified its commitment to Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management (EBFM) with the release of their EBFM policy and subsequent EBFM Roadmap. The EBFM Policy establishes a framework of guiding principles to “enhance and accelerate the implementation of EBFM within NOAA Fisheries, and in cooperation with NOAA Fisheries partners.” These guiding principles are: implement ecosystem-level planning, advancing our understanding of ecosystem processes, prioritizing vulnerabilities and risk of ecosystems and their components, explore and address trade-offs within an ecosystem, incorporate ecosystem considerations into management advice, and maintain resilient ecosystems. The Ecosystem Dynamics and Assessment Branch (EDAB) conducts a research program focused on developing ecosystem-level knowledge and advice to support informed decision-making. Research conducted by the Branch encompasses climate science, ecology, process-oriented ecosystem research, and marine population dynamics and ecosystem modeling. The Branch is responsible for conducting analyses of the effects of natural and anthropogenic pressures on the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem (NES LME). EDAB also develops and applies ecosystem and statistical models to synthesize information on climate, oceanographic, and human-related pressures. These products are provided to a variety of entities to inform decision-making and to support the implementation of regional and national EBFM. These entities include NOAA, other federal and state agencies, Regional Fishery Management Councils (hereafter, Councils), Marine Fisheries Commissions, research colleagues, nongovernmental organizations, national and international treaty organizations in which the U.S. participates, and the fishing industry (both commercial and recreational). One of the focal areas of EDAB is Ecosystem Reporting where this position will be focused. The Branch develops several documents reporting ecosystem status and trends (e.g., State of the Ecosystem reports for the two regional councils, Ecosystem Status Report, Current Conditions, Ecosystem Context for Stock Advice, and others). These documents provide climate, environmental, and ecosystem considerations targeted to specific audiences to support individual stock advice, specification setting, and as general communication tools to the general public. Collectively, these documents serve as the backbone of Integrated Ecosystem Assessments (IEAs). The reports describe environmental, social, and economic states and their potential impacts on commercially important fish species, protected species, and the NES LME. These synthesis products are important in supporting ecosystem-level advice critical to NMFS, Councils, stakeholders, and other decision-makers. Data used in ecosystem reporting incorporates a wide range of disciplines. These reports typically contain climate and oceanographic information such as global climate and regional model outputs, satellite sea surface temperature and ocean color data, as well as observations from ongoing hydrographic and plankton surveys. They also contain relevant data from other fisheries independent and dependent sources such as fish and protected species surveys, and commercial landings data. Ecosystem reporting also attempts to capture human dimensions through social and economic data related to Northeast U.S. Coastal communities. Additionally, the Branch supports a defined process for evaluating and operationalizing new analyses and data for inclusion in ecosystem reporting products to improve generality, accessibility, testing, documentation, and best practices. Tasks: The task includes the following: Coordinate and facilitate implementation of ecosystem reporting projects.Organize and facilitate workshops as needed. Assist with planning and logistics of program and project team meetings/workshops and help develop agendas, written documents, meeting minutes, presentations, or other materials as required. Assist with ecosystem data processing and analyses to support the development of ongoing and new ecosystem reporting products. Assist with the development and maintenance of automated procedures to improve efficiency throughout the ecosystem reporting process (e.g., data collection and processing, report generation, metadata collection). Assist with the development and maintenance of web interfaces for disseminating ecosystem data and reports. Ensure adherence to NOAA data policies and Public Access to Research Results guidance. Prioritize and organize implementation of recommendations from Clients (i.e., Regional Fishery Management Organizations). Interface between the Information Technology Division (NEFSC/ITD), Clients, and other users to assess needs and develop requirements. Maintain and update documentation and provide user training on new applications as needed. 1. Communicate the results of projects and activities to general and scientific audiences in written and oral formats. Organize and participate in symposia at national and international conferences and workshops. Start Date:   May 1, 2023. Date is flexible. Location:   Work can be conducted on site at one of the NEFSC Laboratories in Woods Hole, MA or Narragansett, RI, or fully remote with in the region. The expectation is to commute to the office 1-2 times per month, and for important meetings. Travel:   Travel may be required as follows: attendance at regional fishery management council meetings, project-related workshops and working group meetings, and presentations at scientific conferences. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position. Wage range is $29-34/hr. Overtime is not anticipated. Comprehensive benefits package. Required Qualifications: Master’s degree preferred or Bachelor's degree in marine science, fisheries, quantitative ecology, oceanography, or similar with two (2) years of experience (directly related to this requirement.). Experience with data analysis and familiarity with the design, development, and management of relational databases for scientific information. Experience with statistical software, such as R, python, SAS, MATLAB, and others. Experience and understanding of code versioning software, such as Git, SVN, mercurial, and others. Experience with developing documents using plain-text syntax, such as markdown, LaTeX, and others. Demonstrated proficiency for the following skill sets:Project management for complex and technical scientific programs Coordinating and leading diverse project teams to develop, improve, and achieve project goals Communication both verbally and using written materials (including visual presentations) with a variety of audiences including technical, scientific, and the general public Independent worker with strong time management skills Adaptability to quickly changing priorities and strict timelines Attention to detail. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking candidates to support the National Marine Fisheries Service Office of Protected Resources (OPR) for duties associated with the in the preparation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultations, and supporting the ESA section 10(a)(1)(B) Incidental Take Permit process. We are seeking candidates for this work prospectively, which is dependent on award of contract. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. DUTIES: Assist Federal staff in conducting analyses and required research to enable consultation under Section 7 of the ESA on Federal activities affecting ESA protected species and their designated critical habitats. Assist Federal staff in activities associated with issuance of ESA Section 10 Incidental Take Permits. Start Date: TBD Location:   Work may be performed offsite. Salary and Benefits:   These are full-time position with benefits. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field. Documented evidence of education and/or experience in one of the following; environmental, biological (fisheries biology/ecology; marine mammal biology/ecology; sea turtle biology/ecology; and/or marine biology/ecology), ecological risk assessment or environmental impact analysis, scientific project management. Strong technical writing and communication skills. Knowledge and training in environmental regulations and the Federal regulatory process is preferred. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed. Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking a social scientist needed for survey of current social and economic conditions of commercial fishing crews and hired captains in the Northeastern U.S. This position will support the Social Sciences Branch of the NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center. OAI is a Virginia corporation established in 2003 that provides consulting and technical services to the U.S. government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the private sector. We specialize in scientific program and project management, strategic planning, professional and technical services and stakeholder engagement, supporting government contracts. Description: Crew are vital to the fishing industry and their social and economic circumstances are integral to the well-being of fishing communities. However, very little data on even basic demographic information on crew exists at the regional level for Northeastern U.S. fisheries. Fishing vessel crew and hired captains comprise a significant portion of fishing industry employment, yet very few studies have inquired about the social and demographic characteristics of the individuals who make up this segment of the industry. The majority of economic and social information collected has tended to focus on vessel owners. The aim of this survey is to track the characteristics of crew and hired captains over time in order to capture trends in socio-demographics, employment, and fishing practices, among other factors. Data collected as part of this effort have been used to inform social impact assessments of past fisheries management actions and will continue to be an important component to the policymaking process. The results of this survey will not only help fisheries managers understand what is going on in crew members’ lives but also the impacts of management decisions on commercial crew. The Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) Social Sciences Branch has need for social scientist support to conduct the Socio-Economic Survey of Hired Captains and Crew in New England and Mid-Atlantic Fisheries. The survey is the third wave of data collection following the baseline first wave conducted in 2012 and the second wave in 2018. Data to be collected include demographic information on crew, wage calculations systems, well-being, fishing practices, job satisfaction, job opportunities, and attitudes toward fisheries management. General duties will include travel to select ports throughout New England and the Mid-Atlantic to conduct survey interviews, distributing outreach materials, literature reviews, drafting technical memoranda and peer-reviewed manuscripts, and attending meetings and workshops on an as needed basis. Specific tasks to be performed are the following: Tasks: Conduct survey interviews with commercial fishing vessel crews and hired captains at selected ports throughout the New England and Mid-Atlantic states. Conduct data entry, data management, and quality control of survey interview data using statistical and database management software. Assist in data analysis and reporting of results, including the preparation of a technical memorandum, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed journal manuscripts. Start Date:   April 1, 2023. Total of 5 months with the possibility of renewal. Location:   On-site location in Woods Hole, MA, or remote work in New England or the Mid-Atlantic. Travel:   Travel is required. Travel to selected ports to conduct survey interviews will be necessary. Ports selected will be throughout the New England and Mid-Atlantic states. There may also be travel to conferences or fisheries management meetings to conduct outreach and present results. Salary and Benefits:   This is a full-time position lasting 5 months with the possibility of renewal. Overtime is not anticipated. Salary is commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package. Required Skills/Qualifications: Advanced degree in a social science field including, but not limited to, anthropology, sociology, economics, human geography or statistics. Training or experience in statistics for the social sciences. Knowledge and experience with statistical software such as R, SAS, STATA, SPSS, MaxQDA, and others. Proficiency in written and oral communication. Ability to work independently and with a multidisciplinary team. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Desired   Skills/Qualifications: Experience or training in GIS and/or geo-spatial analysis. Experience or training in fisheries, marine or natural resource management. Interest in the socioeconomic conditions and well-being of fishing and coastal communities dependent on marine resources. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Work history for past 5 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).

Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a candidate to provide program management support to the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources (OPR) in Silver Spring, MD. OAI conducts research, offers policy advice, and provides personnel support services to government and industry clients for marine fisheries and protected species. DUTIES: Assisting Federal staff in coordinating the development of staffing and funding requests. Assisting regional point of contact or contacts with the preparation of information for OPR to track hiring actions and other aspects of spending of allocated funds, workload and completion of tasks. Assisting Federal staff in OPR, NMFS West Coast Regional Office (WCR) and other regions as needed with ensuring compliance with timelines for the preparation of draft annual work plans and other tasks. Assisting Federal staff in OPR, WCR, and other regions as needed with the preparation of draft budget estimates for each fiscal year, including hiring needs. Assisting Federal staff in OPR, WCR, and other regions as needed with interagency coordination meetings and assisting Federal staff in the preparation of meeting notes, talking points, and other information. Providing technical support to Federal staff in drafting and development of national guidance documents and reports. Start Date:   March 1, 2023 Location:   Remote Salary and Benefits:   This is a part time position with benefits. Salary commensurate with experience REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 2 years of relevant experience. Experience tracking activities and tasks that result from meeting participation or incoming requests, as well as proactively monitoring action items, researching needed information, and managing due dates. Ability to work well with people. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and speech, especially the ability to edit and distill key points. Ability to be well organized and handle multiple tasks at once. Ability to work independently with a strong attention to detail. Ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively in a team/group setting. Ability to receive constructive feedback and implement appropriate action. Only qualified applicants that meet minimum experience or background requirements stated above need apply. When applying for this position you will be asked to upload your resume at the end of this online application. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Work history for past 5 years or since last full-time education. Education. Previous experience or training with similar requirements. Three professional references. Include your name in the document file name. Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred).