Research Technician - Aerial Observer

We are seeking a highly motivated Aerial Observer Research Technician to participate in aerial surveys for whales, dolphins and sea turtles in New England waters. Duties will include serving as an observer on six to ten aerial surveys per month; quality checking data; coordination with other observers and the flight crew; and analysis of vertical photographs for the detection and identification of marine mammal and turtle species. The majority of the office work will involve reviewing photographs for marine species. This is a grant-funded position with at least 12 months of staffing provided; additional service may be afforded only if additional grant funding is secured. Flying schedules will cover dates throughout the year including weekends and holidays. The successful applicant will be required to attend and satisfactorily complete aircraft and marine safety and survival training.

This is a full-time, 1-year, grant-funded position with the possibility for extension. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package. This position is primarily a field work position, requiring some irregular hours and some long days on flight days. Occasional work on weekends and holidays will also be required for fieldwork. The usual hours for non-fieldwork will be Monday - Friday, 9a - 5p with flexibility based on the fieldwork schedule. Non-fieldwork can be conducted remotely.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Participate in all aerial survey activities, including observer logistics, scientific data collection, monthly reporting, photographic and data analysis, and ground contact.
2. Act as aerial observer on surveys for cetaceans and sea turtles, including participating in aerial photography.
3. Maintain safety and camera equipment and assist with preparation and in-flight troubleshooting.
4. Maintain flight and data logs, assist with data quality checking and assurance, assist with summarizing data and writing reports.
5. Photo-analysis of digital imagery for species detection and identifications, data processing and analysis.
6. Assist with right whale photo-identification and catalog processing.
7. Performs other position-related duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Training and Experience

• A B.A. or B.S in Biology or related science.
• Minimum of two years research experience after college.
• Minimum of six months previous aerial and/or boat survey experience.
• Demonstrated skill in identifying marine mammals of New England.
• Specialized photographic skills including previous experience using digital cameras, especially for wildlife photography.
• Photo-identification experience strongly desired.
• Participation in right whale, other large whale, and turtle aerial research program.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Familiarity with digital photography equipment and field use.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs. Experience with R or GIS software would be advantageous.
• Good communication and coordination skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines for data and report deliverables.
• Attention to detail for proofing and quality-checking data.
• Ability to work without supervision.
• Ability to spend long hours performing photo analysis in the office.
• Comfortable flying in a small aircraft without experiencing motion sickness.
• This position requires regular travel to New Bedford Airport as early as 8am. Candidates must have access to reliable transportation to get to and from the airport.

For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/

New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Here we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet, and we believe a diverse workforce provides experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our work environment.