Northwest Fisheries Science Center Symposium 2020

The 2-day science symposium will include research presentations and a poster session by Northwest Fisheries Science Center staff.

DATE: March 31 – April 1, 2020
LOCATION: Building 9 Auditorium, NOAA Western Regional Center
Sandpoint Campus

This event is FREE and OPEN to the public.

Online registration is strongly recommended to reserve your seat.
To register, go to: https://tinyurl.com/SciSym2020

The Northwest Fisheries Science Center conducts exciting and innovative research on topics that many in your community will find interesting.  Every other year, we hold a Science Symposium to highlight this research. This year, the event (SciSym 2020), will be held on March 31 and April 1, 2020, at NOAA’s Western Regional Center in Seattle. Our goals for this event are to increase awareness of our science, spark opportunities to collaborate with other researchers, and increase our ties with partners and stakeholders in the region.  We anticipate talks covering a wide range of topics including ecology, physiology, toxicology, mathematical modeling, and genetics.

Flyer for NW Fisheries Science Center Symposium 2020

 


Four Paid Field Tech Positions Available: Southern Resident Killer Whale Research, Summer 2020; Oceans Initiative (San Juan Island, WA)

Four PAID Field Technician Positions Available: Southern Resident Killer Whale (SRKW) Research, Summer 2020. 

June 25 – September 4, 2020 (1 month minimum; start/end dates flexible; preference given to applicants available for the entire period), with a possibility of extending fieldwork through September. 

Oceans Initiative is a team of scientists on a mission to protect marine wildlife. Our US team is based out of Seattle, WA. We are currently recruiting 4 highly motivated field technicians to collect behavioral and AIS data on killer whales and vessels from land-based study sites on San Juan Island for our summer 2020 field season. Experience with theodolite tracking of cetaceans, and SRKW identification skills, are highly valued. Must be able to work independently and as part of a close-knit team where a positive attitude is essential. Applicants with substantial experience in theodolite tracking, project leadership, and project management may be considered for a coordinator role. Applicants must be eligible to work legally in the U.S. for the duration of the employment period. 

The primary goal of this project is to measure the effectiveness of recent efforts to reduce impacts of vessel noise and disturbance on foraging of SRKWs. Data collection involves: recording behavioral observations of SRKW activity in Haro Strait, theodolite tracking of vessel and whale movement, storing and processing AIS data, and documenting small vessel presence and activity within 1000m of the whales.

Full Position Description (Deadline April 3, 2020)

 


(Part-time) Youth Engagement Mentor, Seattle Aquarium (Seattle, WA)

Position Description/Apply (expires 1/28/20)

Posted: Open to internal and external applicants.
Reports to: Youth engagement coordinator.
Status: Part-time, hourly, benefited position.
Hours of work: Works day shift Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and one other weekday, up to 30 hours/week. Occasional need for evening work as related to events and programs.
Date needed: March 2020.

Posting expires: Tuesday, January 28, end of day.

About the organization:

The Seattle Aquarium is a respected authority on Puget Sound, the Salish Sea and the world’s one ocean. Our passionate staff increases awareness and drives the change needed to preserve and protect our marine environment through a variety of channels, including a compelling exhibit experience and engaging daytime and evening events; conservation education programs for people of all ages and backgrounds; community outreach to underserved populations; research that advances understanding of animals in our care and their counterparts in the wild; advocacy and policy work; an award-winning volunteer program; strong and consistent marketing efforts; and more.

We’re noted for our collaborative, communicative and team-oriented working environment. Our values, developed in conjunction with our staff, include commitments to adopting and promoting sustainable practices; creating awe-inspiring experiences; constantly learning and improving; fostering an inclusive community; maintaining scientific credibility through evidence-based practices; and honoring our unique place by using our location and history as a lens for larger understanding.

Proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, we’re the eighth-largest aquarium in the U.S. by attendance and we welcome over 850,000 people through our front doors each year. Guided by our mission of Inspiring Conservation of Our Marine Environment, we’ve developed a master plan to substantially increase in size and impact by opening a new exhibit building, the Ocean Pavilion. Our current annual budget is $18 million.

Position description: 

The Seattle Aquarium is looking for a part-time youth engagement mentor to join the Volunteer Engagement team. This position works with the Youth Engagement team to implement the Youth Ocean Advocates volunteer program for high school–age youth in a manner that is both beneficial to the youth participating in the program and to the Aquarium’s mission. The youth engagement mentor is primarily responsible for the implementation of program activities, which includes supervising and supporting youth volunteers in their interpretation shifts, leading field conservation activities, delivering trainings and continuing education opportunities and leading field trips. The position will work to improve the program, particularly our focus on developing a program which is welcoming of all youth and is respectful and appreciative of our community’s diversity. Further, this position will support planning, equitable recruitment and administrative functions of the program.

A. Essential functions:

  • Be an encouraging, supportive and motivating role model for youth as they serve in mutually beneficial volunteer roles supporting the Aquarium’s mission. Recognize youth volunteers’ interests, strengths and growth opportunities and support their exploration and development as they pursue their varied interests as they relate to the Aquarium’s mission, including—but not limited to—marine science, biology, sustainability, conservation, environmental justice, science communication, community service, community engagement and more.
  • Supervise youth volunteers as they complete their volunteer assignments. Mentor and coach youth to improve the quality of their work, interpretation and customer service.
  • Lead the equitable recruitment, selection and onboarding processes for youth volunteers.
  • Lead the evaluation of youth volunteers, including accurate record keeping, communication regarding volunteer commitments, and providing feedback and coaching on volunteer performance.
  • Ensure the continuing education of youth volunteers by developing and implementing both short (30-minute) and long (full-day) trainings on a variety of topics, including aquarium species, ocean science, interpretation and conservation. Integrate Aquarium’s mission outcomes in lesson planning.
  • Plan, implement and supervise field experiences for Youth Ocean Advocates, including beach cleanups, restoration work, citizen science, field trips, etc.
  • Chaperone youth volunteers participating in off-site field trips. This includes being comfortable driving aquarium vehicles, including a 15-passenger van, and also comfort navigating public transportation.
  • Work closely with the youth engagement coordinator to improve existing programming, including removing barriers to program participation for individuals from underrepresented communities and building a positive, welcoming and inclusive culture respectful of our diverse community.
  • Communicate frequently with youth volunteers and other stakeholders via email, phone and social media and in person.

B. Additional responsibilities:

  • Complete special projects and other duties as assigned.
  • Interact positively with Aquarium visitors and provide excellent customer service to all stakeholders.

C. Required skills, abilities: 

  • A demonstrated commitment to and experience in building a positive, welcoming culture respectful of the diversity in our community.
  • Interest and experience in marine science, conservation and environmental justice.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, including experience delivering formal presentations.
  • Detail oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to shift priorities in a rapidly changing work environment.

D. Experience, education and certifications: We will consider various combinations of relevant experience and education in order to meet minimum requirements.

Required: 

  • Interest and experience in working with or mentoring youth, utilizing positive youth development principles and practices focusing on the strengths and opportunities associated with high school–aged youth.
  • Two years of college coursework in education, life sciences, or similar area of study or two years of experience working in informal education.
  • Washington driver’s license (or ability to obtain one upon arrival). Comfort driving Aquarium vehicles, including a 15-passenger van.
  • Adult, child and baby first aid and CPR/AED training and certification required within 30 days of employment.

Preferred: 

  • Experience participating in field conservation work, including leading service learning/volunteer projects.
  • Previous experience working or volunteering at an aquarium, zoo, marine science organization or similar organization preferred.

E. Working conditions:

Salary and benefits: $16.50/hour + part-time benefits package. Part-time staff are eligible for Seattle Aquarium’s part-time benefits package to include medical, vision, employer-funded Health Reimbursement Account, Flexible Spending Account, a Family Plus membership, access to a subsidized ORCA pass, and paid sick time.

How to apply: The Seattle Aquarium is a progressive, equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce. All candidates are encouraged to apply by uploading a résumé and one-page letter detailing interest and relevant experience in our online application.

Please let us know if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for this job.

*Note: Must pass a background check and motor vehicle records check, upon job offer, to be eligible for this position. Regarding driving records, during the last 36 months you must not have had any of the following experiences: left the scene of an accident; been convicted of reckless, negligent or careless driving; had automobile insurance canceled, declined or not renewed; been convicted of an alcohol- or drug-related offense; had driver’s license suspended or revoked; or been convicted of three or more speeding violations.


Protected Species/Marine mammal Observer – Bio-Waves (Seal Beach, CA)

Protected Species/Marine Mammal Observers (PSOs/MMOs)

Job Title: Marine Mammal/Protected Species Observers Level I and Level II (Junior & Senior)

Job Location:  Location: Seal Beach (Orange County)

Period of Performance:  Starting Jan/Feb 2020; ending Dec 2022

General Description: This is a pile-driving/dredging monitoring & mitigation project being conducted in Anaheim Bay, near Seal Beach, CA, and possibly in San Diego Bay, CA.

Detailed Job Description: Junior and Senior Protected Species Observers are needed for a land-based monitoring of protected marine species for mitigation of dredging, pile driving and other marine construction activities inside protected harbors and bays in Southern California, USA.  PSOs will utilize standard marine mammal and sea turtle observation methods to record all incidents of marine mammal and green sea turtle occurrences and will document any behavioral reactions in relation to construction (e.g. dredging and pile-driving) activities. Observations will be recorded using paper data-forms or electronic data forms via a laptop computer or tablet.

Work is expected to begin early 2020 (exact dates TBD) and continue until approximately Dec 2022. Observation and monitoring activities may be conducted around the clock (day and night). Most of the monitoring activities are expected to occur Monday through Friday (M-F) and for the Anaheim bay project mostly during the daytime (an 8-hour period). However, some observation activities may involve work outside of regular working hours including weekends and nighttime.

This job will involve long, tedious and sometimes monotonous work outside in the elements in all seasons and weather conditions (including periods of rain) that can occur in Southern California.  Shifts typically will be limited to 4-6 hours but multiple shifts, sometimes exceeding 8 hours per day might be possible.

Requirements/Skills: A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent job experience) or higher in the biological, environmental, or physical sciences is required. Other degrees may be considered based on work experience. Field experience, either via university course work, or relevant job experiences is preferred but not required.

  1. Prior experience working as a marine PSO or similar job is preferred.
  2. Experience or training in the field identification of marine mammals and sea turtles, including the identification of behaviors is desirable but not required.
  3. Visual acuity in both eyes (correction is permissible), sufficient for the discernment of moving targets (e.g. marine mammals and turtles) at the water’s surface with the ability to estimate animal size and distance; use of binoculars will be required. Familiarity with SLR cameras is preferable.
  4. Ability to conduct field observations for long periods outdoors and to collect systematic data according to protocols is necessary.
  5. Writing skills that are sufficient to prepare and review reports of observations;
  6. Good oral and communication orally, by radio or in person, is needed.
  7. Ability to take precise and detailed data in a consistent manner.
  8. Must have the ability to work a flexible work schedule throughout the entirety of the performance period. Some overnight and weekend shifts may be required.
  9. PSO training, orientation, and safety training for work around construction operations will be provided to workers prior to start of work.
  10. Must be U.S. citizen, have a green card (Lawful Permanent Resident Card) or a work visa and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
  11. Hiring is dependent on passing DOD/Navy government background check.

Pay and Benefits Pay and employment status will be non-exempt hourly wages. Pay rates will start at ~$20.00 per hour and will be determined based on experience with opportunity for performance-based increases. Positions are temporary based and contractual. Health Care and other benefits will not apply.

A food allowance and accommodations may be provided for the Anaheim Bay Project (TBD).  No allowances will be provided for the San Diego Bay project.

To apply, send résumé or CV (3 pages or less) to:

jobs@bio-waves.com

 

Please do not call or otherwise contact us. We will confirm receipt and contact you to request a phone or in-person interview if we are interested.


Washington State University Extension – Puget Sound Beach Watcher Coordinator (Everett, WA)

Washington State University Extension – Puget Sound Beach Watcher Coordinator

Full-time position
Bachelor’s degree + 2 years required, Masters preferred
Deadline: Position opens 12/09/2019; screening begins January 2, 2020 and will continue until filled

Applications are invited for this coordinator position responsible for leading the development, implementation, ongoing evaluation and refinement of the Program including research, education and stewardship projects primarily in Snohomish County. This position provides Puget Sound ecosystem and water resources expertise, implements multiple events including an annual introductory 80-hour volunteer training program, a 25-hour ‘short course’ for Beach Naturalists and advanced training opportunities for veteran volunteers; coordinates and mentors volunteers on their respective projects; conceptualizes and initiates new volunteer opportunities; facilitates communication within and outside the program, fosters and supports volunteer leadership and generates extramural funds in furtherance of the program. The position also builds liaisons, networks and collaborative working relationships as necessary to carryout the program with county, state and federal agencies and with community-based groups and organizations.  This position is open until filled. For a full description of position, requirements and to apply, visit https://www.wsujobs.com/postings/49509. EEO/AA/ADA.


SAFS’s 2020 Winter Seminar Series: The Bevan Series on Sustainable Fisheries

The School of Aquatic and Fishery Science’s (SAFS) annual Bevan Series on Sustainable Fisheries begins on Thursday, January 9, 2020 with a focus this year on Freshwater Fisheries and Ecosystem Services. Be sure to view the SAFS events page and hit the + to subscribe and have information about each week’s presentation added to your calendar.

Presentations will also be recorded and uploaded to the SAFS YouTube channel the following day. You can also explore videos from the Autumn 2019 Seminar series, the 2019 Bevan/SAFS Centennial, Graduate Student Symposium, and Alaska Salmon Program presentations.

flyer with summary of weekly speakers


Cape RADD winter break field course (South Africa)

Marine biology Winter/Summer field course in South Africa

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Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to study biodiversity and further your marine biology skills this Winter or Summer in the kelp forests of South Africa? Cape RADD facilitates a 2 week and 4 week field course for students who want to learn more about the marine environment, conservation and research through hands on field experience and diver development. The Cape RADD course runs every month and includes training in multiple data collection and field operation techniques, theoretical workshops on analysis techniques and tools like R and GIS. Come spend a month abroad, scuba diving and freediving in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.

Visit www.caperadd.com or email info@caperadd.com for more details.


Temporary Laboratory Technician, Hatfield Marine Science Center (Newport, OR)

full position description and application

IEc, working under the direction of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is seeking a candidate with experience in fish husbandry to assist with a laboratory experiment evaluating the impacts of anthropogenic stressors on growth and disease in juvenile fish. The successful candidate will be responsible for fish husbandry, including following laboratory-wide animal care guidelines, preparing feed, assessing water quality, collecting and recording data, and following best management practices for keeping a clean laboratory environment. In particular, tasks may include the following:

  • Maintaining the health of fish eggs, fry, and fingerlings. This may be accomplished by cleaning tanks, moving fish when required, monitoring fish activity; monitoring influent and effluent treatment systems and change filters as needed; weigh, deliver, and record experimental feeds for individual tanks; and determine water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH.
  • Maintaining an organized laboratory. This may include keeping the laboratory stocked with general supplies, maintaining equipment, practicing good chemical hygiene practices, and adhering to laboratory safety protocols.
  • Assisting with growth measurements. This may include determining weight and length of exposed and control fish, conducting necropsies, and recording data.
  • Assisting with disease challenge. This may include exposing fish to bacteria, conducting necropsies, and recording data.
  • Recording experimental activities. This may include maintaining a daily lab notebook, recording data on paper and/or electronic data sheets, and transcribing written records and data into an electronic database.

The successful candidate will work at the direction of IEc and NOAA laboratory staff.

Position Type: Full time, temporary laboratory technician
Start Date: 16 December 2019
End Date: 15 June 2020
Location: Hatfield Marine Science Center, Newport, Oregon

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Fisheries Science) is required. Relevant work experience is preferred.

To Apply: Provide a resume, cover letter, transcript, and references


UW Diving Info Session

Diving Info Session

Monday, 10/14
3:30 pm
FSH 213

RSVP requested: https://forms.gle/ngxcfwacH7cGeYUB7

Explore how to make diving a part of your study of marine biology and the local marine environment with two UW Scientific Divers:

Dr. Katie Dobkowski: Instructor, Friday Harbor Labs (Marine Subtidal Ecology)
Will Love: Diving Safety Officer, UW Environmental Health & Safety

No dive experience required: Katie and Will will introduce why the Pacific Northwest can be a great place to dive, the training and equipment involved, and how beginners can get started. Experienced divers can hear what’s involved with scientific dive training – especially through the Marine Subtidal Ecology course taught at Friday Harbor Labs in summer 2020.

Light refreshments provided

Read more about the Marine Subtidal Ecology course (summer 2020) at: https://fhl.uw.edu/courses/course-descriptions/course/marine-subtidal-ecology/

Please send any questions to: Joe Kobayashi, Marine Biology Adviser (marbiol@uw.edu)


Autumn 19 College of the Environment Student Travel & Meeting Fund

Now is the time to apply to the 2019 Autumn Quarter College of the Environment Student/Postdoc Travel & Meeting Fund.

Autumn 2019 Submission Deadline: Friday, October 25, 2019

For details on this funding opportunity, application requirements, & tips for successful proposals, please visit:

Student Travel & Meeting Fund

Funding for travel within North America will be $750, while International travel will be $1,000.

Please be advised that funding proposals are reviewed on a quarterly basis. Submissions should be planned such that travel can be accomplished within 6 months of the date of the award, otherwise the award may be retracted. Awards will not be granted retroactively for travel that has already been complete – please plan accordingly and apply for funding by the admission deadline prior to your conference or meeting. Submissions outside of these dates will not be considered.

Questions? Contact coenvaa@uw.edu