[MARMAM] Large Whale Biologist position

[Emma Dvorak]

  Large Whale Biologist

Integrated Statistics is looking for a Large Whale Biologist to work 
with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National 
Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center 
(NEFSC). The position supports the Protected Species Branch. The 
position may  begin with a period of remote work to accommodate COVID-19 
pandemic restrictions, but will be on-site in Woods Hole, MA after that.

The Large Whale Biologist assists with the collection and analysis of 
aerial and shipboard survey data, including researching the distribution 
of right whales and other large whale species in relation to ecological 
conditions and human activities, and the impacts of those factors on 
right whale behavior, health, population dynamics, and ecology. The 
visual survey information collected by NOAA is used to assist in the 
management of protected species, evaluate the impacts of various human 
activities on the species, and aid in education and conservation efforts.

*Duties*
The Large Whale Biologist will engage in these tasks:

  * Participate in aerial surveys for right whales. Flight crew
    responsibilities include visually scanning for whales from bubble
    windows, recording sightings data on custom computer software, and
    photographing whales for individual identification using a digital
    SLR camera with a telephoto lens. Aircraft ditch training is required.
  * Participate in small vessel and shipboard surveys for right whales.
    Vessel-based duties include visually scanning for whales,
    photographing whales for individual identification, collecting
    biopsy samples from select individuals using crossbows, assisting
    with oceanographic and zooplankton sampling, and supporting unmanned
    aircraft system (UAS) operations. Small boat certification may be
    requested.
  * Manage survey and photographic data. Data processing duties include
    QA/QC of aerial and shipboard sightings and effort data, evaluating
    sightings relative to seasonal and dynamic management areas,
    accurate and timely completion of summary spreadsheets and survey
    reports, preliminary matching of right whale individual
    identification images, and maintenance of data processing programs
    and databases, including an R Shiny application.
  * Support scientific and management needs. Writing and policy tasks
    include analyzing data and preparing presentations for stakeholder
    meetings, environmental impact statements, biological opinions,
    scientific manuscripts and stock assessment reports.
  * Assist with Protected Species Branch website content development and
    maintenance, and engage in public education and outreach activities.
  * Perform additional occasional duties, such as assisting with whale
    carcass relocation, supporting disentanglement efforts, and
    assisting with whale necropsies.

*Qualifications*

  * A Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, natural resource
    management, marine biology, or a closely related field is required.
    A Master’s degree is desirable.
  * At least one full year of experience working on aerial and/or
    shipboard surveys for right whales or other protected species.
    Aircraft ditch training, boat trailering, and small boat handling
    skills are desired.
  * Experience with marine mammal visual survey data collection and
    processing methods, including use of spreadsheets and Google drives.
  * Demonstrated programming and database skills, including working with
    R (and R Shiny), PL/SQL, and Oracle are desired.
  * Training and experience in statistical design and statistical
    approaches for addressing scientific questions.
  * Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written (including
    visual presentations) with a variety of audiences including
    technical, scientific, and the general public. A writing sample may
    be requested.
  * Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Track
    record of success in telework/remote work conditions, and at sea in
    potentially difficult conditions.
  * Strong project management skills, ability to adapt to quickly
    changing priorities and strict timelines. Attention to detail.
  * Driver’s license and US passport.

This is a full time position for one year, with the possibility of 
extension. The position is eligible for the benefits described on the 
Integrated Statistics website. Some projects will require travel, 
spending up to three weeks at a time at sea or away from home, including 
abroad (primarily Canada). To apply for this position, fill out the 
online application 
<https://jobs.intstats.com/JobDetails.jsp?jobListingId=275> )or visit 
www.integratedstatistics.com, click Employment Opportunities, click the 
job name and click the Apply Here link).

Integrated Statistics is an equal opportunity employer and will not 
discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, 
color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, gender 
identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification 
protected by federal, state, or local law. Consistent with its 
obligations under federal law, Integrated Statistics is committed to 
taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified 
women, minorities, disabled individuals, special disabled veterans, 
veterans of the Vietnam era, and other eligible veterans. For assistance 
with accessibility of applications, posters, forms, and/or documents, 
please email the Integrated Statistics office.

-- 
Integrated Statistics, Inc.
16 Sumner Street
Woods Hole, MA 02543
Cell: (508) 648-8308
Office: (508) 540-8560
Fax: (508) 721-6841

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