Marine Fisheries Biologist

State of North Carolina

2d

About The Position

This Marine Fisheries Biologist supports and leads fisheries monitoring programs and fisheries management activities conducted out of the Manteo Field Office of the Division of Marine Fisheries. This position combines hands-on fieldwork responsibilities with analytical, supervisory, and fisheries management responsibilities. This position is responsible for statistically analyzing and interpreting fisheries data to support state and regional fisheries management. This includes preparation of technical reports, Fishery Management Plans (FMPs), annual FMP updates, compliance reports, grant deliverables, program summaries, and recommending management actions for finfish resources. The biologist will support FMP development by identifying and analyzing management issues, serving on plan development teams, and acting as staff lead or co-lead on one or more FMPs. This position will work with and communicate fisheries science and management to the public. This position will also work with other state agencies and regional agencies by fulfilling data requests and participating in technical committees, hearings, and public meetings. The biologist will supervise four or more technical staff and will coordinate and oversee fisheries-independent sampling programs to ensure data quality, safety standards, and program goals are met. The biologist will participate in field sampling involving the use of gill nets, trawls, seines, and long lines and will operate trucks, operate and navigate boats with outboard motors, and trailer boats. A North Carolina driver’s license and the ability to swim are required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife or fisheries management, fisheries science, zoology, or a biological science, or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in wildlife or fisheries management; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A North Carolina driver’s license and the ability to swim are required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience operating and/or trailering boats

Responsibilities

• Lead and support fishery-independent monitoring programs through participation in field work, coordination of sampling activities, operation of vessels and sampling gear, and verification and validation of biological data.
• Analyze fisheries data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods and be familiar with survey design and basic stock assessment principles and methodologies.
• Prepare, review, and contribute to technical reports and data summaries (Fisheries Management Plans, Annual Fisheries Management Plan Updates, Compliance Reports, Program Summaries, etc.) in support of state and federal fisheries.
• Serve as staff lead or co-lead for state and interstate species and Fishery Management Plans, coordinate with state and regional agencies, and participate in technical committees, hearings, and public meetings.
• Supervise permanent and temporary technical staff ensuring data quality, safety compliance, and program goals and objectives are met.

Benefits

• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.
• If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level