Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
TitleCaptain Fisheries Research Vessel
Occupational CategoryOther Professional Careers
Bargaining UnitOSU - Operational Services Unit (CSEA)
Salary RangeFrom $47773 to $58028 Annually
Minimum Qualifications Non-Competitive Qualifications: U.S. Coast Guard Master's certificate for the applicable tonnage and operating area of the vessel; and 2. Three years' experience operating a commercial fishing vessel, for which trawls were a principal gear, or a fishery research vessel; and 3. One year experience in fishing gear maintenance and repair.
Duties Description The Lake Erie Unit (LEU) delivers a comprehensive, complex fisheries and ecosystem assessment/research program that is conducted in accordance with the governance structure of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission’s (GLFC) Strategic Plan for the Management of Great Lakes Fisheries. The successful execution of the LEU’s programs is highly dependent upon research and management planning, assessment/research design and execution, data analysis and reporting conducted collaboratively with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC), Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (OMNRF), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), academia and NGOs.
The LEU’s Research Vessel Captain is the “lynchpin” of the Unit’s mission, ensuring vessel and crew safety, and successful planning and execution of the Unit’s fisheries assessment programs.
The Research Vessel Captain’s duties include, but are not limited to:
1.Ensures that vessel systems and operations are in compliance with U. S. Coast Guard regulations and Division of Fish and Wildlife policies and standard operating procedures. Maintains accurate and comprehensive logs for operation of vessel and systems.
2.In concert with the biologist in charge of technical operations, develops cruise plans and schedules for vessel operations; executes vessel maneuvers, and supervises operation of deck machinery and deployment of sampling equipment associated with technical operations. Trains crew members in proper and safe operation of deck machinery and sampling equipment.
3.Performs scheduled and routine maintenance on vessel hull, engines, navigation equipment, deck machinery and other vessel systems. Ensures the general cleanliness of the vessel, including the berthing spaces, head, galley, wheelhouse, laboratory spaces, deck, and engine room. Trains and supervises technical staff assigned to assist with maintenance and cleaning functions. Arranges and supervises periodic drydock hull inspection and maintenance. Identifies need for and coordinates performance of maintenance requiring outside expertise.
4.Exercises command authority on all issues involving safety of vessel and crew. Coordinates CPR certification for all crew members. Ensures a high state of maintenance and operational readiness of vessel safety systems, including sensors, alarms, fire extinguishing systems, lifesaving equipment, personal flotation devices, exposure and survival suits, and life rafts. Trains crew members to respond appropriately to emergency situations.
5.Maintains, and, as required, fabricates field sampling equipment, such as nets, anchors, lines, cables and tow bodies. Maintains inventory of stores and equipment needed for vessel operations. Advises Unit supervisor of replenishment requirements and executes purchases as directed.
6.Field work aboard and maintenance of smaller vessels also required. Performs additional, “land-based” fisheries field work (e.g. stream electrofishing surveys; fish weir operation, etc.). The successful candidate will also assist in the maintenance and operation of other fisheries sampling equipment, as well as assistance in maintaining the Unit’s facilities.
7.This position requires frequent travel, including some overnight stays. The successful candidate must also be willing and able to travel both out of state and into Canada.
Additional Comments Must possess a minimum of a 50 Ton U.S. Coast Guard Masters License. Must have valid driver's license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position. Must be able to negotiate difficult terrain, work in remote areas and in adverse weather conditions. Travel is required; must possess or be legally eligible to obtain a U.S. Passport with no restrictions on travel to Canada. Overtime will be required. Overnight travel is required. Weekends and holidays work may be required. Must be available for emergency response. Must be available to respond to after-hours emergencies. Must be able to lift and move objects up to 75 pounds. For work onboard R/V Argo, must be able to ascend/descend ladders while vessel is underway.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.