Aquaculture & Environmental Consultation Specialist

POSITION DESCRIPTION :

NOAA Fisheries' West Coast Region (WCR) seeks an Aquaculture & Environmental Consultation Specialist to support conservation, regulatory compliance, and sustainable aquaculture initiatives. This role will focus on Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) consultations, along with interagency coordination to ensure environmentally responsible aquaculture development in the region.

The specialist will analyze proposed projects, assess potential impacts on protected species and habitats, and provide science-based recommendations to meet legal and policy requirements. The role involves close collaboration with scientists, policy experts, stakeholders, and federal, state, tribal, and local partners to balance ecological protection with sustainable aquaculture growth.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Conduct and complete formal and informal ESA Section 7 and EFH consultations for aquaculture projects and related activities.
• Review biological assessments, environmental reports, and technical data to evaluate potential impacts on protected species and habitats.
• Develop written analyses, recommendations, and decision documents to support NOAA Fisheries' regulatory responsibilities.
• Coordinate with other NOAA offices, federal agencies, state and tribal governments, and stakeholders to resolve issues and align on project outcomes.
• Provide subject matter expertise on sustainable aquaculture practices, marine conservation, and regulatory compliance.
• Support policy development and guidance related to aquaculture, ESA, and EFH requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of consultations, project correspondence, and regulatory determinations.

REQUIREMENTS :

• Bachelor's degree in biological science, conservation biology, wildlife management or related fields.
• Knowledge of aquaculture practices, fisheries management, and marine ecosystem conservation.
• Advanced understanding of the Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, Magnuson-Stevens Act, National Environmental Policy Act
• Experience conducting ESA and EFH consultations in a regulatory or scientific setting.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret biological and environmental data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical writing.
• Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams and diverse stakeholders.