Field Scientist

POSITION DESCRIPTION :

Think Tank is seeking a Field Scientist to support NOAA with collaborative fisheries research with commercial fishermen. NOAA conducts diverse projects, including the Study Fleet, Gulf of Maine Bottom Longline Survey, Hook and Line Survey, Industry-Based Biological Sampling, and Environmental Monitoring programs .

This position supports both shore-side and at-sea research -from data collection and equipment maintenance to training, outreach, and scientific reporting. The role involves working closely with fishing industry partners, scientists, and vessel crews to improve fisheries data collection and advance ecosystem-based management.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Support CRB research in field and lab, including equipment deployment, data collection, and protocol compliance .
• Provide technical assistance at sea and ashore : troubleshoot data systems, train fishermen, and maintain sampling standards.
• Participate in research trips (~40 sea days / year, 1–10 days each) aboard commercial vessels; coordinate with captains and crews.
• Collect, sort, and process fish / invertebrates; conduct biological sampling (age, growth, maturity, genetics, diet).
• Maintain and repair field equipment, fishing gear, and survey technology .
• Serve as Chief Scientist on Gulf of Maine Bottom Longline Survey cruises, leading scientific teams and vessel operations.
• Collect, analyze, and audit biological, fisheries, environmental, operational, and video data .
• Manage and troubleshoot data collection hardware / software ; ensure QA / QC and proper database entry.
• Deliver biological samples and documentation to research partners.
• Contribute to protocol development, proposals, reports, and manuscripts .
• Represent CRB at industry meetings, workshops, and scientific conferences .
• Develop outreach materials (manuals, guides, newsletters, blogs, social media).
• Provide weekly updates and monthly progress reports to leadership.
• Assist with staff training and mentoring; work independently with minimal supervision.

REQUIREMENTS :

• Bachelor's degree in fisheries, biological sciences, or equivalent professional experience.
• 3+ years field / research experience in fisheries or marine science.
• Strong background in biological sample collection, fish identification, and data processing .
• Proven ability to work independently and lead or support teams in challenging field conditions.
• Demonstrated experience working with commercial fishermen and at-sea environments.
• Experience with electronic data collection tools and troubleshooting hardware / software .
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, etc.) .
• Specific Certifications will be required