Marine Mammal System Assistant III 04102 LBYD Federal

LBYD Federal delivers high-quality engineering, architecture, and professional services in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. We work on exciting and challenging projects for federal clients nationwide, emphasizing responsiveness, employee growth, and exceptional career development opportunities.

About the role

The Marine Mammal Systems Assistant III (MMA III) supports 24/7 operations by working closely with veterinary and biotech staff to provide superior care to marine mammals. This includes vitamins/medication delivery, customized diets, and routine medical procedures. Each animal receives individualized care based on health requirements, and husbandry behaviors are tailored to specific needs. The MMA III serves as the designated handler for a specific animal, provides non-supervisory oversight to MMA I and II staff, assists with animal transport, and executes individual training plans.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary handler for a designated marine mammal
• Provide non-supervisory oversight and guidance to MMA I and II staff
• Collaborate with lead staff to discuss and resolve animal care issues
• Monitor and observe animal behaviors and wellness, reporting findings to onsite personnel
• Conduct animal working sessions, including body inspections and wellbeing assessments
• Engage with animals through training sessions, rehearsing and executing behaviors for open-water performance
• Record session details and animal performance data
• Perform feedings and administer food supplements
• Assist with basic animal husbandry tasks
• Provide diving support, including enclosure inspection and maintenance
• Support fish house operations to prepare individually formulated rations
• Operate various watercraft for marine mammal care and training
• Deter nuisance animals following established procedures
• Travel with animals globally on short notice, potentially to harsh or high-risk environments

Requirements

• Two (2) years of Marine Mammal Systems (MMS) experience
• Basic open water scuba diving certification with a minimum of 1 year of experience
• Operational and navigation experience on small boats (40’ or under)
• USCG license (Operator of Un-Inspected 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
• Strong teamwork skills in a collaborative environment
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Commitment to safety for the project, team members, and animals
• U.S. citizenship (required for security clearance)
• Ability to obtain a Secret government security clearance prior to starting work

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology or a 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

Physical Demands

• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs
• Must be able to pull oneself out of the water onto deck and 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
• Capable of standing or walking for extended periods
• Ability to spend extended time on water vessels in varying sea states

Working Environment

This role requires working outdoors on boats, docks, and in water across all weather conditions and elements.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and comprehensive 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 and wellness program
• Employee service awards program
• Community involvement through fundraisers and volunteering