November 2023 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Intern coordinator position - Dolphin Research
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 08 Nov '23

08 Nov '23

Dear all, The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) <http://www.thebdri.com/> is a marine science centre dedicated to promoting the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat through research and education. We are currently accepting applications for the following position: INTERN COORDINATOR This role involves assisting BDRI biologists in running research projects that focus on studying the impact of marine vessels on bottlenose dolphin behavior and the foraging ecology of the Eurasian otter. It presents a valuable opportunity to gain experience in field research and become an integral part of a dedicated research team. The intern coordinator will work in a friendly atmosphere and benefit from continuous guidance and support provided by our researchers: Dr. Bruno Diaz Lopez (Director), Dr. Severine Methion (staff and research manager), Ms. Olga Mosca, Ms. Nathalie Dunel Roig, and Ms. Joyce Neves (PhD candidates). In addition, this position includes coordinating the activities of interns participating in our internship program. The intern coordinator will be responsible for assisting with the daily activities of interns and contributing to the institute's daily operations, both in the field and in the lab. Please note that this position is unpaid, but, in exchange, the intern coordinator will receive accommodation, equipment, logistics support, and continuous supervision from our team. Key details: Location: O Grove, North-western coast of Spain Start Date: January 8th, 2024 End Date: August 31st, 2024 Responsibilities will include (but are not limited to): - Coordinate between BDRI's biologists and the interns. - Managing the intern shared house and welcoming new interns onsite. - Assisting in intern training of land-based surveys and lab work (e.g., photo-identification analysis, database entry, GIS, otter diet analysis, and more). - Conducting land-based surveys of wild dolphins and otters. Requirements: - Background in biology, ecology, veterinary, or natural science, along with motivation, hard work ethics, and an interest in marine mammal research . - Strong teamwork and leadership skills, as this position involves coordinating up to 10 interns at a time. - Self-motivation, independence, and physical fitness to handle field and lab work. - Proficiency in English (compulsory) and Spanish (desirable). Additional Information: This position provides the opportunity to develop a personal research project supervised by BDRI principal investigators (Dr. Bruno Diaz Lopez and Dr. Severine Methion). At BDRI, we are proud to supervise numerous student research projects every year and publish our findings in high-standard journals (<http://www.thebdri.com/papers.hmtl >). Being part of our team is therefore a great opportunity to contribute to meaningful research and gain valuable experience. Work Schedule: - Laboratory work days typically last 8 hours. - Fieldwork typically exceed 4 hours and occur approximately 2 or 3 times per week. - There will be two days off per week. Please keep in mind that field work is weather-dependent, unpredictable, and changes seasonally. This schedule information helps candidates better understand the time commitment and nature of the work involved in this internship opportunity. Please note that this is an unpaid position, but accommodation in the intern shared house will be provided. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own expenses, including food and travel to and from the research center in O Grove, Galicia, Spain. To apply: Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A one-page cover letter indicating your availability. - A two-page resume detailing your training, experience, and relevant skills. - Names and email addresses of at least one reference. Please send these items as email attachments, in PDF format, to: internship(a)thebdri.com Include "INTERN COORDINATOR" in your subject line. If you are not a European citizen, please ensure you are authorized to legally stay in Europe for more than 3 months. Deadline: The application deadline is November 26th, 2023. Interviews will be arranged for selected candidates in late November and we will finalize our candidate selection in early December. For additional information about BDRI's research and conservation efforts, please visit our website at http://www.thebdri.com and feel free to explore our social media pages (@thebdri). Best regards, Séverine & Bruno The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI <http://www.thebdri.com>

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Position Open: Soundwatch/Be Whale Wise Coordinator
by Jenny Atkinson 07 Nov '23

07 Nov '23

Position: Soundwatch/Be Whale Wise Coordinator. Year-round FT employment includes benefits. http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/soundwatch/soundwatch.html Location: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Washington, USA Established in 1979 as the first U.S. museum dedicated to whales living in the wild, The Whale Museum (TWM) promotes stewardship of whales and the Salish Sea ecosystem through education and research. The Soundwatch Boater Education Program was initiated in 1993 by TWM to reduce disturbances to marine wildlife caused by irresponsible boater behaviors. This innovative program educates boaters on guidelines and regulations for marine wildlife through shore-based education, reinforces the learning experience through on-the-water educational patrols, monitors vessel activities to characterize vessel trends, and evaluate existing guidelines and laws. The main focus of our work is the endangered Southern Resident killer whales (SRKWs) but there are other marine mammal species of importance in our region, including Transient killer whales, Minke whales, Humpback whales, Fin whales, Harbor porpoise, Dall's porpoise, Harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and many other cetacean and pinniped species. A key component of Soundwatch is the transboundary Be Whale Wise Program. The Coordinator oversees all aspects of the Soundwatch and Be Whale Wise Programs including, but not limited to: coordination of seasonal field operations; small vessel operations/maintenance, Be Whale Wise education/outreach on marine stewardship; maintenance of the program long-term data sets and database; preparation of program reports; training, mentoring and coordination of volunteers, interns and seasonal contract employees; assistance with grant writing/fund raising; collaborate with partner monitoring programs, the whale watch industry and federal and state marine mammal management and enforcement teams. The successful candidate should understand and have experience with U.S. and Canadian recovery priorities related to the endangered SRKWs. The Coordinator reports to TWM Executive Director and works cooperatively with other museum staff. This position is classed as year-round, full-time Management/Administrative with field work responsibilities. The successful candidate will have: * Bachelor's Degree plus 7 years' experience in a relevant field, specifically marine mammal research in the wild * Minimum 4 years' experience in small vessel operations, with previous experience operating around marine wildlife. Familiarity with VHF radio use and etiquette. Washington State Boater License required * Experience in education and/or outreach * Strong knowledge of marine ecosystems, marine mammal biology and natural history, specifically the endangered SRKWs and the Salish Sea * Strong verbal and written communication skills necessary for public interaction, conflict resolution, department planning, grant writing and project management experience * Team player with excellent interpersonal skills, able to interact effectively with staff & board, interns/volunteers, visitors, members, and the public * Ability to multi-task and work flexible schedule, specifically some weekends and evenings * Ability to collect and synthesize information; effective problem solving skills * Strong organizational skills and attention to detail * Ability to lift 40 lbs. or more and to stand for long periods of time * Excellent computer/technological skills (i.e., database management, ArcGIS, Microsoft Office) Salary range is $63,000-68,000 (varies based on experience, relocation support needs and start date). Benefit package includes: Health Care (medical, vision, dental), Simple IRA Retirement Plan Contribution, Paid Time Off and Holidays. HOW TO APPLY: Please submit a PDF file containing your letter of interest, resume and at least three references. Your letter of interest must address (1) examples of accomplishments to illustrate your experience for this role; (2) your philosophy about the position; and (3) insight into what draws you to The Whale Museum's mission at this time in your career. Please Note: International applicants required to have approved Visa and documentation to work in the U.S. at the time of submission. Please email your PDF package to: Jenny L. Atkinson, Executive Director, The Whale Museum - email: Jenny(a)whalemuseum.org <mailto:Jenny@whalemuseum.org> Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring decisions are not made based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or any other legally protected group status. The duties listed are to give prospective applicants a better understanding of the position. This is not a comprehensive list of job duties. Position open: November 7, 2023. Deadline: Open until position is filled. Please send to: Jenny L. Atkinson, Executive Director, The Whale Museum, P. O. Box 945, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 or email: jenny(a)whalemuseum.org <mailto:jenny@whalemuseum.org> Jenny L. Atkinson Executive Director The Whale Museum P. O. Box 945 Friday Harbor, WA 98250 (360) 378-4710 ext. 26 www.whalemuseum.org

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Whales and dolphins research in southern Tanzania – Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park, January 2024
by DMAD Marine Mammals Research Association 07 Nov '23

07 Nov '23

*Whales and dolphins research in southern Tanzania – Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park, January 2024* The project focuses on monitoring cetaceans in Tanzanian waters, using a variety of methods, including systematic small boat surveys with data collection on presence/absence, species identification, distribution, behaviour, group cohesion, photo identification and acoustics, in strategically selected areas. The pristine seascape of Mnazi Bay and its surrounding waters, located in Southern Tanzania, holds unparalleled marine wildlife biodiversity, with 10 cetacean species recorded to date (the list will likely expand). At the same time 50,000 people live near the Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Park, and being a coastal community, they depend on the ocean for their livelihood. Our project embraces scientific data collection and community based environmental education, which once combined, become a backbone of effective conservation. By participating in the research, you’ll help to bridge crucial data gaps for better understanding of the species richness in the area, conservation issues identification and contributing towards conservation strategy development in the region. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We offer a limited number of volunteering placements for expedition in January 2024, that will take place in southern Tanzania with the research base in the heart of the Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park (MBREMP) – the most biodiverse seascape of the region and a cetacean hotspot. Selected volunteers will participate in the small boat surveys off MBREMP and will assist in collecting visual and acoustic data on cetacean species of this region, gaining practical experience and theoretical knowledge from reputable cetacean experts. Placements are open for the fixed period of 2 weeks starting on 10th January 2024. REQUIREMENTS -Genuine interest in marine conservation, integrity, self-motivation, maturity and ability to work responsibly; -Physical fitness and mental endurance enabling sustaining long hours out at sea in sometimes challenging conditions; -Ability to cohabit in a dynamic and multicultural environment in a remote location; -Respect for the project's rules and work ethics, willingness to adhere to the standards and protocols; -Fluency in English (both spoken and written) and good communications skills; -Willingness to learn new software applications and filed techniques; -Ability to handle equipment responsibly and with due care; -Background in marine biology and previous fieldwork experience are an advantage; FIELD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITIES -Participating in small boat-based surveys daily (total number of surveys is contingent on weather, but +- 10 surveys should be expected). -Collecting cetaceans sighting, behavioural, acoustic and photo identification data, alongside environmental and anthropogenic data; -Operating various equipment including cameras, drone, hydrophone (commensurate with skills and experience) and managing respective software programs (Discovery, PAMGuard, QGIS etc.); -Data entry and basic analysis; -Cataloguing and matching individuals of target species for photo-ID studies via Discovery software; TRAINING The Nyangumi Tanzania team provides lectures and field work training as well as constant mentoring. You will be given the chance to learn the most popular methodologies used in marine mammal research including: -GIS mapping -Photo-identification; -Discovery, Darwin and Logger 2010 software; -Systematic data collection and data analysis; PROJECT CONTRIBUTION The project contribution for the 2-week placement is $1,800. The contribution covers the cost of participation in the project and includes: -Accommodation in a tented camp in the heart of the Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park; -Basic meals; -Training and lectures with a copy of the lecture on PDF; -Fieldwork (daily boat surveys, up to 10 surveys); -Use of the equipment (subject to respective skills). Applicants are responsible for their international flights to/from Tanzania and internal flights to Mtwara, extra meals not included in the field work period, insurance (all participants must have health and/or travel insurance), visa and personal expenses. In the beautiful and remote location of the Mnazi Bay, you’ll have opportunity to: · Encounter cetaceans including Risso’s, Spinner, Bottlenose dolphins. There are chances to encounter rarely seen in this region pelagic melon headed whales, false killer whales and pilot whales. · Visit sand dunes and mangroves, local fishermen villages and the Ruvuma estuary – hope to hippos. · Snorkel pristine coral reefs. HOW TO APPLY Email your CV and cover letter to nyangumiznz(a)gmail.com, copying info(a)dmad.org.tr, explaining why you are a suitable asset for our team and which goals you hope to achieve with us.

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Job opening: Satellite Imagery Analyst
by Emma Dvorak 07 Nov '23

07 Nov '23

Satellite Imagery Analyst Integrated Statistics is looking for a Satellite Imagery Analyst to contribute to research focused on utilizing very high-resolution (VHR) satellite imagery for monitoring and conservation of the North Atlantic right whale. This position will support National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Northeast Fisheries Science Center's Whale Ecology Branch. The Satellite Imagery Analyst will work in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, leading a project that includes analysis of VHR satellite imagery to assess its utility in detecting right whales and other species, particularly in comparison with other survey platforms and under varying environmental conditions. The Satellite Imagery Analyst will work closely with the interagency Geospatial Artificial Intelligence for Animals (GAIA) collaboration and will contribute to advancing our understanding of marine mammal distribution using cutting-edge technology and analysis techniques. The goals of this project are to: 1. Compare the effectiveness of right whale detection from VHR satellite imagery with data collected from other observation platforms (e.g. aircraft, vessels, acoustics). 2. Evaluate the suitability and performance of VHR satellite imagery for whale detection in varying environmental conditions, including sea state, cloud cover, and glare, to determine its practical applicability for marine mammal research, particularly in the US northeast region. *Responsibilities* The duties of the Satellite Imagery Analyst include: * Collaborating with the research team to develop and refine the annotation platform and backend databases for efficient data management. * Conducting comprehensive analysis of annotated imagery to assess the accuracy of right whale detection and quantify the impact of environmental conditions. * Collaborating with team members to integrate results from VHR satellite imagery analysis with data from other observation platforms. * Designing a study to evaluate challenges and strengths of different approaches for marine mammal data collection by comparing results from VHR imagery to vessel/aircraft/acoustics at both an inshore and offshore location. * Writing a peer-reviewed publication with the research team and identifying an appropriate venue for publication. There may be opportunities to participate in presenting work in scientific conference venues as well. *Qualifications and Experience* * Master's or PhD in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Science, Marine Biology, or related field. * Strong background in satellite image analysis, remote sensing, and image annotation is required. * Demonstrated ability to conduct rigorous statistical analyses on large datasets is required. * Experience with processing Maxar imagery, particularly level 1B, is very beneficial. * Experience detecting wildlife in satellite imagery, conducting marine mammal aerial surveys is required. * Experience in processing drone and/or aerial survey imagery is beneficial. * Proficiency in geospatial software and programming languages (ArcGIS, Python, GDAL, R) for image analysis and data processing is very beneficial. * Experience with machine learning and computer vision techniques is beneficial. * Familiarity with Microsoft Azure and/or Amazon Web Services cloud computing is beneficial. * Excellent written and oral communication skills; demonstrated writing skills and history of successful delivery of timely and clearly written communication are required. * Ability to work independently and to work effectively in a team setting. The position is full-time (40 hours per week) for one year, with the possibility of extension. The rate of pay is approximately $33-38/hr, depending on skills and experience, and the position is eligible for the benefits described on the Integrated Statistics website. Preferred start date is January 2024. Partially remote work may be a possibility for an exceptional candidate. To apply for this position, go to https://jobs.intstats.com/JobDetails.jsp?jobListingId=310 or visit www.integratedstatistics.com, click Employment Opportunities, click the job name and click the Apply Here link. Integrated Statistics is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local law. Consistent with its obligations under federal law, Integrated Statistics is committed to taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified women, minorities, disabled individuals, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and other eligible veterans. For assistance with accessibility of applications, posters, forms, and/or documents, please email the Integrated Statistics office. -- Integrated Statistics, Inc. 16 Sumner Street Woods Hole, MA 02543 Cell: (508) 648-8308 Office: (508) 540-8560 Fax: (508) 721-6841 -- Integrated Statistics, Inc. 16 Sumner Street Woods Hole, MA 02543 Cell: (508) 648-8308 Office: (508) 540-8560 Fax: (508) 721-6841

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Reminder for marine mammal ecotoxicologists: Join us at SETAC Europe 2024 Conference in Sevilla, Spain, from May 5-9, 2024
by Anaïs Remili 06 Nov '23

06 Nov '23

Dear colleagues, I hope you are doing well. As the deadline for abstract submissions for the SETAC Europe 34th Annual Meeting approaches (November 29th), please remember to submit your research abstracts. The conference will be in Sevilla, Spain, from May 5th to May 9th, 2024. Session Title: Assessing and Predicting the Impact of Chemical Pollution on Marine Mammals: Challenges to Be Overcome, Future Prospects, and Conservation Strategies. Conference Details Event: SETAC Europe 34th Annual Meeting <https://www.setac.org/discover-events/global-meetings/setac-europe-34th-ann…> Dates: 5 - 9 May 2024 Location: Sevilla, Spain Track: 2. Ecotoxicology Becomes Stress Ecology: From Populations to Ecosystems and Landscapes Submission Guidelines Link to start a submission:: https://setac.confex.com/setac/europe2024/discussion/cfp.cgi The title of the presentation should not exceed 200 characters (including space) The abstract should not exceed 2,500 characters (including space and references). Presenters applying for a platform presentation must submit a short and an extended abstract (max. 2 pages, including tables, figures, and references). Extended abstracts help session chairs in prioritizing topics for platform presentations and selecting a subset of substitutes in the event a scheduled presentation is withdrawn Abstracts will undergo a peer-review process, and selected presentations will be part of our conference program. Key Dates Abstract submission deadline: November 29th, 2023 Notification of acceptance: Early 2024 Registration: Registration will open in February 2024 SETAC Europe is usually attended by a minimum of two thousand researchers from all around the world. It represents a unique opportunity to network with fellow marine mammal experts and researchers from around the world. We look forward to your participation and the opportunity to present your research at this session. We are excited about the prospect of your participation and the opportunity to collaborate on these important topics. Thank you for your attention, and we hope to see you all in Sevilla in 2024. Cheers, Anais __________ Anais Remili, PhD Postdoctoral researcher, Ecological Tracers Lab, Department of Natural Resources, McGill University Founder and editor-in-chief of Whale Scientists https://anaisremili.com/

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Faculty position Marine Mammal Biology
by Markus Frederich 06 Nov '23

06 Nov '23

The School of Marine and Environmental Programs (SMEP) in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at the University of New England (UNE) invites applications for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor in Marine Sciences, with a focus in Marine Mammals, starting in August 2024. The successful candidate will join a collegial, engaged team of faculty and professional staff in a school offering programs in Marine Science (including Marine Biology and Oceanography tracks); Marine Affairs; Marine Entrepreneurship; Sustainable Ecological Aquaculture; Aquaculture, Aquarium Sciences, & Aquaponics; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; and Sustainability & Business. UNE is a private, non-profit, comprehensive R2 university, with campuses in Portland and Biddeford, Maine and Tangier, Morocco. The College of Arts and Sciences is located on UNE’s waterfront Biddeford campus, with nearby city-based amenities in Portland (a 30-minute drive) and Boston (a 2-hour drive). UNE’s location in southern Maine also affords easy access to forests, mountains, freshwater lakes, rocky coastlines, and sandy beaches. CAS, one of UNE’s five colleges, has a primary focus on undergraduate education. Check out the details here: https://une.peopleadmin.com/postings/16889 or contact Dr. Markus Frederich Professor of Marine Sciences University of New England 11 Hills Beach Road Biddeford, ME 04005 207 602 2406 https://sites.une.edu/frederichlab/ (V) ( .,,,,. ) (V) This e-mail may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If you suspect that you were not the intended recipient, please delete it and notify the sender as soon as possible.

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New publication: Geographical variation in Cape fur seals' in-air vocalizations across Southern Africa (Namibia and South Africa)
by Mathilde Martin 06 Nov '23

06 Nov '23

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share our article recently published in Marine Mammal Science: Geographical variation in Cape fur seals' in-air vocalizations across Southern Africa (Namibia and South Africa) Mathilde Martin, Jessica Stow, Tess Gridley, Simon Elwen, Isabelle Charrier Abstract: The use of acoustic signals to communicate is widespread among marine mammals and vocalizations are involved in all their social interactions. Due to many factors, acoustic features of a species' vocalizations may differ among populations. The present study investigated both micro- and macro-geographical variation in the vocalizations of Cape fur seal females, males, and pups. Acoustic measurements were performed on calls recorded at four South African and two Namibian sites (maximum range ~ 1,000 km). Comparisons among close sites in South Africa revealed no microgeographical variation (maximum range ~ 130 km) in females' and pups' vocalizations. Barks of subadult males had different features among sites, which may be explained mostly by the context of call production. At the macro-geographical scale (South Africa vs. Namibia), all call types varied significantly among sites. Several extrinsic and intrinsic factors were suggested to drive such differences. For females' and pups' calls, differences might be explained by environmental factors, whereas for males' barks, behavioral differences are the most likely explanation for acoustic differences (breeding vs. resting sites). Such investigations help understand how acoustic communication in marine mammals is shaped by ecological drivers. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.13084 Best regards, - - Mathilde Martin, PhD Postdoctoral researcher Communication and Cognition in Social Mammals research group Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies University of Zurich https://www.ieu.uzh.ch/en/research/behaviour/cognition.html https://mathildemartin-research.com

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New study on manatee thermoregulation
by Nicola Erdsack 05 Nov '23

05 Nov '23

Dear colleagues, my co-authors and I are pleased to announce our new publication on manatee thermoregulation: *Erdsack, N., Galves, J. A., & Powell, J. A. (2023). Heat loss or heat uptake? Skin temperature in Antillean manatees (**/Trichechus manatus manatus/**, Sirenia: Trichechidae) in Belize. International Journal of Tropical Biology and Conservation / Revista de Biología Tropical, 71(54), e57272. doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v71iS4.57272* Abstract: Introduction: The two subspecies of the West Indian manatee (/Trichechus manatus/), Florida manatees (/T. m. latirostris/) and Antillean manatees (/T. m. manatus/), face different environmental challenges. While Florida manatees have to cope with winter water temperatures below their lower critical temperature of ~20°C and air temperatures below freezing, Antillean manatees live in year-round warm Caribbean waters. Sirenians lack effective thermal insulation and have limited capability of controlling peripheral heat loss. Although severe cold related health issues and mortality are primarily known in Florida manatees, it can be assumed that Antillean manatees and other extant sirenians share the cold-sensitivity, but hardly ever experience it. Contrarily, during summer, Antillean manatees may face the opposite form of thermal stress by being exposed to water temperatures close to their body temperature. However, the upper critical temperature of manatees is not known. Objective: To improve understanding of the impact of high ambient temperatures on manatee physiology. Methods: We measured skin temperature in six Antillean manatees in two different habitats in Belize, and compared the results to skin temperatures measured in two captive Florida manatees. Results: We found a similar temperature distribution pattern over the body surface in both subspecies, but significantly higher temperatures and larger temperature ranges among measuring points in Antillean manatees as compared to Florida manatees. In one Antillean manatee, skin temperature was consistently lower than ambient water temperature by up to 2.5°C. This implies potential heat uptake from the environment, in contrast to the heat loss experienced by Florida manatees at low water temperatures, apparent in skin temperatures above ambient water temperature. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that heat stress may be a more likely risk for manatees in warm tropical waters. Despite the small sample size, our results present important findings towards understanding thermal tolerance and impact of high ambient temperatures on manatee physiology. The study is published as part of a Special Issue on Aquatic Mammals of Central America and accessible at: https://revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/rbt/article/view/57272/57784 Best regards, Nicola, Jamal & Buddy -- ************************************ Nicola Erdsack, Ph.D. Affiliate Scientist Manatee Research Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34236 cell +1-941-284-0708 erdsack(a)mote.org

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PSO and Turbidity Monitor Openings
by Maxx Van Waeyenberghe 05 Nov '23

05 Nov '23

Dear All, Vantage Observing, LLC is seeking experienced National Marine Fisheries Service approved PSO’s for ongoing and upcoming dredging, and marine construction projects. Candidates with previous Hopper Dredging, and Clamshell Dredging experience are preferred. We are also seeking candidates with turbidity monitoring experience to join our team. Vantage Observing provides a professional work environment with highly competitive compensation, and flexible scheduling. Requirements: Protected Species Observer - Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology or related field. - 2 Years of protected species observing experience during dredging, or marine construction projects. - Previous experience monitoring for Sea Turtles, Sturgeon, Manatees, and Whales. - National Marine Fisheries Unconditional Approval Letter - Excellent communication and report writing skills. - Work outdoors in the elements for long periods of time. Turbidity Monitor: - Previous turbidity monitoring experience on beach nourishment, and/or dredging projects. - 3 years of experience operating boats with a length of greater than 21'. - Experience trailering boats and launching. - Excellent communication and report writing skills. - Work independently and in a team environment. - Work outdoors in the elements for long periods of time. For more information or to submit your resume email VantageObserving(a)gmail.com Best Regards, Maxx Van Waeyenberghe Vantage Observing, LLC Manager

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2024 Soundwatch Program Vessel Operator/Educator Opening
by Alanna Frayne 03 Nov '23

03 Nov '23

The Whale Museum's Soundwatch Boater Education Program: 2024 Seasonal Vessel Operator/Educator Opening The Soundwatch Boater Education Program is seeking a vessel operator for the 2024 summer field season. Soundwatch is a research, education and monitoring program operated by The Whale Museum (TWM), a not-for-profit organization located in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island in Washington State. The Soundwatch program mission is to reduce vessel disturbance to marine wildlife, particularly the endangered Southern Resident killer whales, in the Salish Sea region of Washington State (USA) and British Columbia (Canada). Soundwatch is looking for vessel operators/educators to carry out program objectives; educate boaters on best practices for viewing marine wildlife before they leave the shore; reinforce the learning experience in the actual context where disturbances take place; develop and evaluate community-based voluntary guidelines; and provide a scientific platform to monitor vessel activities around marine mammals. To learn more, please visit our website and read Soundwatch’s most recent Contract Report and publications. Vessel operators/educators will conduct seasonal vessel patrols, educate boaters on regional/federal Be Whale Wise guidelines and regulations, and collect data while monitoring vessel activity around whales. Data from this critical program characterizes vessel activity trends around endangered killer whales and other marine wildlife. The data is used to promote better boater compliance and to inform marine mammal management strategies such as state and federal vessel laws and guidelines. Vessel operators/educators report to the Soundwatch Program Coordinator and work cooperatively with other museum staff, program interns and volunteers. This position is classed as Seasonal Field Work Contractor, June-September. Hourly wage for this position is commensurate with experience and starts at $25.00/hour. VESSEL OPERATOR/EDUCATOR RESPONSIBILITIES: Seasonal field operations: · Conduct full- or half-day on-the-water educational patrols and monitoring of whale watch activities May-September. · Maintain daily boat patrol protocols and data collection procedures on whale watching and marine wildlife viewing trends, guideline compliance measurements and educational materials distribution. · Prevent wildlife disturbance by intercepting boaters before they reach wildlife areas. · Monitor activities within San Juan County Marine Stewardship Area including recreational and fishing pressure in reserve areas, including National Wildlife Refuge Areas and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Biological Preserve Areas. · Maintain equipment and collection materials. · Work with Soundwatch volunteers and interns. · Maintain communications with whale research and commercial whale-watch community. · Report marine mammal strandings to the San Juan County Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Small Vessel operations: · Operate 17’-20’ outboard vessels. · Perform routine maintenance and minor boat/engine repair, maintain vessel/engine/operation and safety equipment, communicate with coordinator and/or mechanic for troubleshooting advice, provide vessel operation briefing to interns and volunteers. Education/Outreach on marine stewardship: · Distribution of educational materials on-the-water, regional boating facilities and organizations. · Participate in local education and outreach events. Soundwatch field data-entry: · Assist with field season data entry. Assist with the update of annual commercial whale watch industry information and ID book. · Assist with training of volunteers and interns. Keep track of volunteer activities for future reporting. APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS: • Bachelor’s degree in marine/wildlife sciences. • Valid US passport or an enhanced driver's license (for the entirety of their position) and CPR/First Aid certification. • A Washington state boater license. • Minimum 3 years of small vessel operation with experience operating around marine wildlife. • Familiarity with recovery priorities related to endangered SRKWs. • Soundwatch operates under a NOAA NMFS research permit which requires vessel operator candidates to have relevant field experience. The successful candidate must be approved for operation by NMFS as a condition for hiring. HOW TO APPLY FOR POSITION: Please send a letter of interest, a resume, and contact information for three references. Please include any start/end dates and passport status. Submit application materials via email as one PDF. Please include in your subject line: Soundwatch Vessel Operator Application (Last Name). Soundwatch Vessel Driver/Educator should plan to be in place by May 1, 2024 (Exact start date negotiable). Active review of submitted applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. PLEASE SEND APPLICATION MATERIALS TO: Alanna Frayne Soundwatch Boater Education Program Coordinator alanna(a)whalemuseum.org Please feel free to contact with any questions. Alanna Frayne (she/her) Soundwatch Program Coordinator The Whale Museum 62 First St N | Friday Harbor, WA 98250 (360) 378-4710 ex. 33 My response may be delayed during the field season (May-Sept). Thank you for your patience.

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