Marine Mammal System Assistant II 04189 LBYDF

Location: Bangor, Washington. Part-time, regular schedule. U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a Secret clearance required. Travel with animals worldwide on 72-hour notice may be required.

About the Role

The Marine Mammal Systems Assistant II (MMA II) supports 24/7 operations by working closely with veterinary and biotech staff to provide superior care to marine mammals. Each animal receives customized care based on individual health requirements, and husbandry behaviors are developed and maintained according to specific needs. The MMA II serves as a designated secondary handler for a specific animal, provides non-supervisory oversight and technical direction to MMA I staff, and assists with marine mammal transport.

Responsibilities

• Serve as secondary handler for a specific animal
• Provide non-supervisory oversight and guidance to MMA I staff
• Monitor and observe animal behaviors and wellness routinely; report to onsite personnel
• Conduct animal working sessions, including body inspections and assessments of wellbeing (behavior and health)
• Engage with animals through working sessions, rehearsing and executing multiple behaviors for open-water performance
• Record session details and animal performance
• Perform feedings and administer food supplements
• Assist with basic animal husbandry
• Provide diving support, including enclosure inspection and maintenance
• Support fish house operations to prepare individually formulated rations for each animal
• Operate a variety of watercraft
• Perform tasks related to the care and training of marine mammals for specific projects
• Deter nuisance animals while following established processes and procedures

Requirements

• One (1) year of Marine Mammal Systems (MMS) experience
• Basic open water scuba diving certification with a minimum of 1 year experience
• Operational and navigation experience on small boats (40’ or under)
• USCG license (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels/6pac – 46 CFR 10.467) or higher, or U.S. Navy Coxswain’s certification
• Operational experience using maritime navigational devices
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, holidays, and weekends
• Must pass a swim and dive test in addition to holding a basic scuba certification
• Commitment to safety for the project, team members, and animals
• U.S. citizenship (required for security clearance)
• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs
• Able to pull oneself out of the water and onto deck/boat platforms without a ladder
• Able to pass the Maritime Vessel Operation Color Blind Test
• Physically qualified to perform dive operations
• Able to stoop, bend, squat, climb, kneel, talk, and hear
• Stand or walk for extended periods
• Spend extended periods on water vessels in varying sea states

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology or related field
• Advanced scuba diving certifications (e.g., dive master, instructor, commercial diver, 1st or 2nd class Navy Diver)
• Current First Aid and CPR Certification

Working Environment

Work is performed outdoors on boats, docks, and in water in all weather conditions.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits package
• Health, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid leave
• Tuition reimbursement for eligible employees
• Formalized mentorship program
• Professional development through North Wind University
• Health & wellness program
• Employee service awards program