Equipment and Gear Support Technician

POSITION DESCRIPTION :

The Equipment and Gear Support Technician will assist the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) Ecosystems Surveys Branch (ESB) with the construction, maintenance, and repair of standardized scientific survey fishing gear used during fishery-independent resource surveys and research projects. This role involves staging, transporting, unloading, and installing scientific gear and supplies, as well as performing inspections and repairs to ensure adherence to established protocols and quality standards. The technician will also support resupply efforts and maintain an accurate inventory of all scientific gear and repair records. A significant component of the position includes participating in resource and gear standardization surveys for up to 60 days at sea per year. Additional duties include supporting safe and efficient operations at the Pocasset Net Loft and assisting in general workspace upkeep and readiness for survey deployment.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Assist with the staging, transportation, unloading and installation of scientific survey gear and other equipment and supplies for ESB surveys and research projects.
• Participate on ESB research cruises for up to 60 days at sea per year.
• Provide assistance in the construction, maintenance and repair of scientific fishing gear used on Ecosystems Surveys Branch research surveys and projects.
• Assemble or make appropriate repairs to survey and research fishing gear based on assessment of damage and wear, ensuring adherence to all established standards and protocols.
• Assist with inspections and measurements on fishing and sampling gear to ensure adherence to established standards and protocols.
• Assists with the staging, transportation, unloading and installation of scientific survey gear and other equipment and supplies for ESB surveys and research projects.
• Assist with resupplying scientific fishing gear, materials and hardware as required during field activities.
• Assist efforts to maintain an inventory of all scientific sampling gear and up-to-date records of all scientific gear repairs and gear inspections.
• Assist with routine efforts to ensure a clean, safe and efficient workspace at the Pocasset Net Loft.
• Participate in resource survey or gear standardization surveys for a period of up to 60 days at sea per year.

REQUIREMENTS :

• Minimum of 5 years' experience with the assembly and repair of bottom trawl and / or scallop fishing gear.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience with the scheduling and transportation of fishing or research sampling equipment.
• Minimum of 1 year experience maintaining an inventory of fishing or research equipment and repairs.
• Current MS Office skills.
• OMAO medical clearance for sea duty on NOAA vessels
• Capable of working at sea for extended periods (100 to 140 days annually).
• Hold a valid state drives license with the ability to operate a Federal motor vehicle.