Research Associate II

About the role

The Research Associate II will join the NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NFMS) Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC) Marine Mammal and Turtle Division’s Sea Turtle Branch. Research focuses on sea turtle abundance, demographics, movements, threats, and trophic ecology in waters of the western North Atlantic, Gulf of America, and Caribbean. This position supports research activities that generate high-quality scientific information needed to understand, manage, and recover sea turtles and their habitats.

Responsibilities

• Support scientific data collection and data/sample management, with a focus on in-water sea turtle surveys and research.
• Assist in field research, including vessel operation and travel to field research sites.
• Collaborate with a team to plan and execute daily duties and complex tasks.
• Contribute to research on sea turtle abundance, demographics, movements, threats, and trophic ecology.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in physical or life sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with scientific data collection and data/sample management, preferably with in-water sea turtle surveys or research.
• Experience with vessel operation is required; proficiency in small vessel maintenance is highly desirable.
• Experience with database management is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong critical thinking and ability to work independently to complete complex tasks.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Location

This position is located at the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Fisheries Science Center Marine Mammal and Turtle Division in Beaufort, NC. Travel to field research sites is required.