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Protected Species Observer - UIC Science

Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation · Wainwright, AK · 2 mo ago
Internship

About the role

UIC Science is seeking a Protected Species Observer to serve aboard one of two ocean-going vessels embarking and disembarking from Wainwright, AK. Embarkation dates will be staggered between 07AUG – 25AUG26. Disembarkation will be largely based on ice conditions and will occur no later than 15OCT26. This position requires the completion of a two-day PSO training course prior to departure. This work is in support of Polar LNG summer drilling project(s) and Marine Subbottom Profiling and Seismic Reflection.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor for marine mammals near the vessel during all operations including start-up, transit, and other activities as specified in the Letters of Concurrence (LOC)
  • Monitor all marine water within the indicated monitoring zone for the presence of listed species
  • Upon identification of a listed species, have the ability and authority to order appropriate mitigation response, including shutdowns, to avoid takes of all listed species
  • If a take occurs, immediately report the occurrence to NMFS using provided contact information
  • Keep a record of observations, vessel activity, vessel speed, wind force and visibility during each shift
  • Submit data forms electronically
  • Familiarize vessel personnel with special operating procedures, applicable regulations, and mitigation measures while underway
  • Identify species of all marine mammals that occur in the area and demonstrate knowledge of their behavior
  • Determine if a listed marine mammal has been disturbed, harassed, harmed, injured or killed and report the incident to NMFS immediately
  • Gain an understanding of shipboard operations and safety, as well as science activities, the tools used for data collection, ultimate data products and its availability to the public as well as the overall goal of the mission
  • Provide a final report at the end of the voyage
  • Maintain appropriate records and report on activities as assigned under their oversight responsibility
  • Participate in daily planning meetings if requested
  • Complete pre-cruise training and orientation with UIC Science one week prior to vessel departure
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Ability to travel on an ocean-going vessel and perform office work
  • Ability to test for and pass a non-DOT pre-employment drug screening and follow all Non-DOT Drug and Alcohol testing program requirements
  • Have personal ID in the form of a valid driver's license or passport
  • Able to communicate in English verbally and in writing
  • Ability to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds

Preferred qualifications

  • Experience in subsistence hunting, including whaling and other marine hunting activities
  • Speak and understand the Inupiaq Language

Skills & abilities

  • Strong oral and written skills to communicate with stakeholders regarding the vessel's activities
  • Functional knowledge to effectively perform e-mail management and reporting
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Office, and Adobe programs
  • Team player to develop strong relationships with staff and ship crew members

Physical and mental demands

  • Repetitive and prolonged postures involving standing, sitting, twisting, squatting, kneeling, stooping, and reaching to full range from above the head to the deck
  • Must always have good balance and coordination to safely walk over catwalks, enter/exit hatches, and over uneven and/or slippery surfaces
  • Ability to step across, up, down, or over obstacles to gain access between dock, barge, and boat given various combinations of barge drafts and river stages
  • Ability to sit and/or stand for at least 6-hour shifts, walk for prolonged periods
  • Handle (lift, carry, push and pull) various materials and tools
  • Climb ladders and stairwells while working in inclement weather
  • Ability to work in cold/hot weather while wearing required PPE (e.g., life preserver, respirators, goggles, etc.)

Schedule

Typical work schedule is 12 hours per day while underway, and 8 hours per day while training/onboarding. The Protected Species Observer will be expected to work outside of normal business hours. The ship is a moving platform and exposure to seasickness is possible. Vessel logistics can be extremely fluid (e.g., weather, ice conditions, schedule changes, etc.) and Protected Species Observers must be flexible. Duties will generally be performed on the bridge.

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