Commercial Fisheries Specialist

Updated: 3 days ago
Location: Williamsburg, VIRGINIA
Job Type: FullTime

Position Information
Position Information


Position Number FP043V
Position Title Commercial Fisheries Specialist
Employment Category Full Time Professional
Location VIMS - Gloucester
Department 1N3100 Marine Advisory Program
Unit Mission Statement
The Marine Advisory Program at William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) includes education, outreach, and technical assistance in the areas of aquaculture, commercial and sport fishing, marine education, marine business, and seafood technology and safety. The importance of advisory services at VIMS equals that of research and graduate education. While all VIMS faculty and scientists are from time to time involved in providing expert advice to the Commonwealth, the Marine Advisory Program is unique in that it is home to scientists whose sole responsibility is for advisory programs on behalf of Commonwealth citizenry, marine industries, and government.
Position Summary
The Marine Advisory Program at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is seeking applicants for a Commercial Fisheries Specialist. This position is affiliated with the Virginia Sea Grant Marine Extension Program.
The Commercial Fisheries Specialist establishes and maintains communication links with individuals, organizations, industry, or other entities involved in the harvesting, processing, and distribution for the fishing community at large. Further, to identify the needs of the fishing community and design and implement research and education, programs (workshops, seminars) to address identified needs.

Responsibilities:

  • Communicate with the commercial fishing industry to determine areas in need of expertise, research, and information. Coordinate the expertise within both VIMS and partner institutes to formalize a communication channel that would serve in information transfer and development of science-based protocols.
  • Foster the development of applied research projects directed at answering complex fisheries problems. Facilitate the research and development in areas of expertise (e.g. conservation engineering, bycatch, offshore wind development, fishery product development). Serve as a liaison between industry and researchers to accomplish goals. Establish where needed and maintain existing information exchanges within the industry, as well as between industry and various governmental or regulatory groups (e.g. Virginia Marine Resources Commission, Regional Fisheries Management Councils, NMFS).
  • Independently prepare proposals for funding and collaborate with the Associate Director, Marine Advisory Program in the development of Sea Grant Marine Extension Program proposal and other RFPs, grant, and contract opportunities as appropriate to the core fisheries extension responsibilities. Lead or contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication. Coordinate the Virginia Fishery Resource Grant Program (VFRGP) by managing the annual request for proposals.
  • Prepare and convey information on the commercial fisheries industry to the public/coastal resource users via group presentations and appropriate media outlets.
  • Process industry VFRGP applications and manage applicant communications. Facilitate the internal and external review process, award preparation and reporting.

About the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS):

VIMS (http:/ / www .vims.edu ) has a three-part mission to conduct interdisciplinary research in coastal ocean and estuarine science, educate students and citizens, and provide advisory service to policy makers, industry, and the public. VIMS serves as the School of Marine Science for William & Mary with masters and doctoral programs within four academic departments: Aquatic Health Sciences, Biological Sciences, Fisheries Science, and Physical Sciences. It is expected that the Postdoctoral Investigator will engage with graduate students, staff, and faculty and contribute to the vibrant research community at VIMS.
Conditions of Employment
Valid drivers license required.
Essential Designation No
FLSA Exempt
Position Restricted? Yes, the appointment is limited due to funding availability
Position Term 12 month - Continuing
Position Months
Required Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

Education
Master’s degree in a discipline relevant to the duties and responsibilities of this position such as fisheries, biology, ecology, or a closely related field.
Competencies
  • Advanced knowledge of fisheries biology, fish and shellfish harvesting techniques.
  • Working knowledge of seafood processing and distribution, seafood science, and seafood sustainability issues.
  • Working knowledge of grants and contracts with the ability to develop and prepare proposals.
  • Strong technical writing skills with the proven ability to contribute to report and manuscript writing.
  • Advanced research skills with the supervisory capacity to design, conduct, and evaluate independent research.
  • Proficiency in a variety of software applications, including MS Office, with demonstrated skills in reporting.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to interface effectively with internal and external partners, and work cohesively as team-member.
  • Strong presentation skills with the ability to convey information to the commercial fishing industry and to relay technical information to non-technical audiences.

Experience
Substantive years of experience in advisory/industry/research program settings.Experience in contributing to manuscript writing and proposal preparation.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:

Education
Ph.D. in a discipline relevant to the duties and responsibilities of this position such as fisheries, biology, ecology or a closely related field.
Competencies / Experience
  • Expertise and experience in extension and outreach are highly preferred.
  • Significant experience in fisheries research and demonstrated proficiency in areas of expertise (e.g. conservation engineering, bycatch, offshore wind development, fishery product development)
  • Experience with leading the preparation of proposals and developing funding opportunities to the core fisheries.
  • Experience in award preparation.

Is the position remote work eligible? Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)
Remote Work Disclaimer
Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.
Advertised Pay Range Up to $70K commensurate with experience
Advertised Pay Range Statement
University Salary Range U11
Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none
Job Open Date 11/17/2023
Review Begin Date 12/15/2023
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Application Instructions
Background Check Statement
William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.


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