Research Vessel Captain and Fisheries Gear Specialist

About the role

Lynker Corporation is seeking Research Vessel Captains and Fisheries Gear Specialists to support NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC) Fisheries Assessment, Technology & Engineering Support (FATES) Division.

Responsibilities

• Construct and maintain Turtle Excluder Devices, Bycatch Reduction Devices, and other selective fishing gear.
• Provide fishing gear expertise for Harvesting Unit research projects.
• Provide gear and at-sea support during Mississippi Laboratories survey cruises.
• Prepare, maintain, and operate Class III research vessels.
• Serve as Captain or First Mate aboard Mississippi Laboratories research cruises.
• Support safe navigation, vessel seaworthiness, vessel cleanliness, cargo and deck-equipment handling, vessel stores, and general vessel operations.
• Aid in workshops and training for commercial fishers in the Southeast and internationally concerning federally required fishing gear.
• Train federal and state marine law enforcement personnel on procedures for inspecting federally required fishing gear.
• Prepare reports documenting outreach, training, vessel, research, and gear-support activities.

Requirements

• At least five years of experience constructing and repairing nets in a commercial fishery or net shop.
• At least five years of experience serving as Captain of a research or fishing vessel, including operation and maintenance of associated equipment.
• A current United States Coast Guard Master License for vessels of 100 tons or greater.
• Proficiency reading fishing gear technical schematics and applying gear-construction techniques.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a United States Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential.
• Ability to maintain all certifications and training required by the NOAA Small Boat Program for Class III vessels.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of selective fishing methods and technology used in commercial fisheries.
• Ability to deliver effective technical presentations using computer and multimedia equipment.
• Ability to provide hands-on demonstrations and training in fishing gear construction.
• Small boat operation certification for fast rescue boats.
• Knowledge of fishing gear regulations.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.

Benefits

The position offers comprehensive healthcare, personal time off, highly competitive compensation, a 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching, and tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement.

Pay

Compensation is commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Hours are flexible but include at-sea work and service as Captain or First Mate.

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee-owned business specializing in professional, scientific, and technical services. We combine scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost-effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement. Lynker focuses on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. We offer a team-oriented work environment, a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions, and a range of benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.