Job Description

Field Stranding Technicians are responsible for all aspects of stranding response and animal care at Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) in Brigantine, New Jersey. Technicians are also responsible for coordinating the efforts of volunteers as well as local, state and federal authorities during stranding responses in the field. This position's responsibilities will be based initially on the experience of the applicant hired and additional training will be provided where necessary.  

Responsibilities

• Coordinate stranding response, recovery and reports of cetaceans, seals, and sea turtles within the designated response area. 
• Organize and oversee the daily operations of the stranding program including, but not limited to monitoring and response to stranding calls and adhering to local and national laws and policies regarding protected species and habitats. 
• Collect data and complete required documentations (e.g. 24-hour report, Level A Data, Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network Report (STSSN) for all stranded animals and complete required reporting to databases. 
• Coordinate and conduct or assist veterinarian in necropsies both in the field and at MMSC, including coordinating the disposal of carcasses and waste materials. 
• Maintain inventory database for all samples and marine mammal parts in conjunction with MMSC staff and proper NMFS, USFWS, and NJFW permitting regulations. 
• Maintain equipment, vehicles, and vessels. 
• Develop and maintain a volunteer, partner, and public outreach network to assist in stranding response, public support, and necropsy. 
• Conduct workshops and training for stranding program volunteers. 
• Ensure adequate safety training and PPE for all volunteers and staff for all procedures involved in stranding response and necropsy, including hazardous and biological waste training, boating safety, animal handling, and zoonotic disease prevention. 
  
  Qualifications

• This position requires a high level of commitment and flexibility with regards to scheduling to accommodate the unpredictable nature of stranding response and requirement of 24/7 on-call status. 
• High level interpersonal communication skills. 
• Proficient in Microsoft software programs. 
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Relevant experience in marine mammal stranding and necropsy (may be a combination of paid and unpaid work). 
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. unassisted after proper training. 
• Ability to drive a large truck and boat including ability to trailer and tow vessel. 
• Ability to work under harsh weather conditions. 
• Bachelor's degree in appropriate area of specialization and experience with stranding work (Cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sea turtles).  
• Experience in stranding program(s) and procedures (2 year minimum). Team based work ethic and leadership capabilities. 
  
  
  

Meet Our Pod - Marine Mammal Stranding Center Together we can make a difference. Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release, Preserve. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is dedicated to responding to marine mammals and sea turtles in distress along all of New Jersey's waterways and to the rehabilitation of these animals for release back into the wild. mmsc.org