Field Party Chief & Component Lead II – Mesophotic Deep Benthic Communities

About the role

The Field Party Chief and Component Lead II will oversee NOAA SEFSC’s Mesophotic Deep Benthic Communities (MDBC) survey program, coordinating at‑sea operations and managing key data components. The role involves leading ROV/AUV missions, handling biological and acoustic datasets, and contributing to analysis and publications related to environmental assessments.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate survey preparation, execution, and completion, including scheduling, equipment logistics, and vehicle selection.
• Serve as Field Party Chief or Watch Leader on ROV/AUV surveys of mesophotic and deep benthic habitats (50–1800 m).
• Manage specific MDBC data components, maintain the database, backups, and security.
• Collate biological inventories, process acoustic bathymetric data, calculate species density, and generate visualizations.
• Present findings at scientific meetings, support outreach, and assist with manuscript preparation.
• Integrate AI/ML automated data outputs and maintain project management tools.
• Conduct video annotation, QA/QC of ROV footage, and track annotation records.
• Write cruise instructions, reports, and handle participant clearance paperwork.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with at least 3 years of experience.
• Proficiency in ArcGIS, including Spatial Analyst and 3D Analyst extensions.
• Strong written and oral communication skills for reports and presentations.
• Functional knowledge of ROV, AUV, and UUV operations and ability to plan at‑sea logistics.
• Expertise in identifying marine fishes, invertebrates, and protected species in mesophotic and deep reef habitats.

Required skills

• ArcGIS (Spatial Analyst, 3D Analyst)
• ROV, AUV, and UUV operation planning
• Database management, backup, and security
• AI/ML data integration
• Video annotation and QA/QC processes

What we offer

• Negotiable hourly rate based on experience.
• Full‑time position with health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.