Fisheries Methods and Vessel Technical Specialist

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulations as well as collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is seeking a Fisheries Methods and Vessel Technical Specialist to support NOAA Southeast Fisheries Science Center's (SEFSC) Harvesting Unit.

Primary Function

This role serves as a senior technical specialist and vessel operator, responsible for maintaining and operating Class III research vessels, supporting survey cruises, and providing advanced expertise in fishing gear construction, deployment, and evaluation.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Construct, maintain, and repair selective fishing gear, including TEDs and BRDs, for use in research and training activities.
• Provide technical expertise and support for fisheries research projects and gear evaluations.
• Support Mississippi Laboratories survey cruises through at-sea operations and gear deployment.
• Operate and maintain Class III research vessels, serving as Captain or First Mate during research missions.
• Ensure vessel readiness, including maintenance, inspection, cleanliness, and seaworthiness.
• Safely manage vessel navigation, cargo handling, deck operations, and onboard equipment.
• Maintain inventory of vessel supplies and support overall vessel logistics.
• Assist with small boat operations and general equipment maintenance.
• Conduct outreach and training sessions for commercial fishers on proper use of federally required fishing gear.
• Provide training to marine law enforcement on inspection and compliance procedures for regulated fishing gear.
• Prepare reports documenting outreach, training, and operational activities.
• Support general unit operations, including warehouse maintenance and equipment organization.

Compensation

Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated and total compensation will vary depending on candidates' depth of experience. This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in net construction and repair within a commercial fishery or net shop environment.
• Minimum 5 years of experience as Captain of a research or commercial fishing vessel, including operation and maintenance of associated equipment.
• Current U.S. Coast Guard Master's License (100-ton or greater).
• Demonstrated proficiency reading and interpreting fishing gear schematics and construction diagrams.
• Valid driver's license.
• Advanced vessel operations and navigation capability in research and field environments.
• Strong technical expertise in fishing gear systems and construction techniques.
• Ability to lead safe and efficient vessel and deck operations.
• Effective communication skills for training and operational coordination.
• Ability to obtain and maintain: U.S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels License (6-Pack), if not already held; and Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Ability to meet all NOAA Small Boat Program training and certification requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of selective fishing gear technologies and bycatch reduction methods.
• Experience delivering technical training and hands-on demonstrations.
• Small boat operation certifications (e.g., fast rescue boat).
• Knowledge of federal fishing gear regulations and compliance requirements.

Travel

Travel estimated: 40–50% (regional travel across Gulf of Mexico states, including offshore survey cruises, regional outreach activities, and training events).

Location

3209 Frederic St, Pascagoula, MS, 39567 – Southeast Fisheries Science Center's Pascagoula Laboratory.

How to Apply

Please visit our Careers Page to submit the required information:

• Resume.
• Cover letter detailing relevant experience.
• 3 professional references (name, email address and phone number).

All documents must be submitted for your application to be considered. For questions, please reach out to our Talent Team or call 774-770-5833.