Fisheries Dockside Sampler – Southeast Region Head Boat Survey

Lynker

Fisheries Dockside Sampler supporting NOAA Fisheries through biological sampling and data collection in the Southeastern United States. Engaging with recreational fishermen for data collection and outreach activities.

Posted 7/9/2026contractCharleston • South Carolina • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $48,000 - $72,000 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Oracle

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide biological sampling from the recreational head boat fishery in the Southeastern United States from North Carolina to Texas
Serve as the NOAA Fisheries field representative with head boat owners, operators, and anglers in the assigned sampling area
Identify and enumerate individual fish to the species level from landed catches
Collect length measurements and record weights and sex from individual fish in accordance with sampling protocols and goals
Collect fish otoliths and spines in accordance with sampling protocols and goals
Enter, check, validate, and quality control data daily
Provide data to appropriate researchers at the direction of the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch
Process, perform QA/QC, and analyze biological samples collected during sampling operations
Upload biological samples to the Oracle system by the 15th of each month for the previous month
Mail otoliths and spines to the Beaufort Laboratory by the 30th of the following month
Use custom data entry applications and database software such as Microsoft Excel, Oracle, and Access to summarize data and provide results
Review daily Trip Reports to identify errors and inconsistencies for vessels in the area of responsibility
Review dockside sample data for accuracy and submit to the Oracle system within seven days of the date sampled
Assist FSD staff with collection, data entry, and processing of fishery-dependent and fishery-independent data as needed
Participate in weekly and quarterly administrative calls and respond to unscheduled calls or emails
Submit Weekly Activity Reports documenting work completed
Conduct regular checks, maintenance, and precautions to ensure government equipment remains in good working order
Assist with vessel reporting compliance, including contacting captains or vessel staff for missing Trip Reports
Update and submit Head Boat Activity Reports weekly in accordance with protocols
Participate in surveys and related research projects in the field and laboratory
Participate in public outreach efforts, including meeting with fishermen and participating in public events to educate the public about SRHS and fisheries management in the region
Prepare for and present, facilitate, or participate in position-related workshops, scientific meetings, symposiums, and public forums, including stock assessment data workshops, Fishery Management Council meetings, and Port Agent Annual Meetings

Requirements

What you’ll need

Expert knowledge of Southeast U.S. Atlantic marine fish identification
BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus three (3) years of relevant experience
Knowledge of applying basic concepts, principles, and methodologies of data management and analysis of fishery data
Ability to perform statistical analysis and provide results in presentation or report form
Proficiency in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys (Preferred qualification)
Computer literacy and experience with common word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs (Preferred qualification)
Experience collecting catch and effort information from recreational fishermen (Preferred qualification)
Knowledge of collection of routine biological samples, including lengths, age structures, gonads, and related samples from marine fish (Preferred qualification)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – we’re all company owners!
Flexible spending accounts
Employee assistance program (EAP)
Short- and long-term disability insurance
Life and accident insurance
Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
Employee Referral Program
Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
Personalized career growth plans for every employee

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

Fish IdentificationData EntryBiological Sample CollectionStatistical AnalysisQuality ControlLength MeasurementWeight RecordingOtolith CollectionSpecies EnumerationCatch And Effort Information Collection

Soft Skills

CommunicationCollaborationAttention To DetailProblem SolvingOrganizational Skills

Certifications

BS Degree In Marine Science