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BMSC Scientific Diving Assistant
Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre
Posted on Dec 20, 2024
BMSC Scientific Diving Assistant
The Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre
For 50 years, the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (BMSC) has supported year-round education and research on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. BMSC is owned and managed by a not-for-profit organization, the Western Canadian Universities Marine Sciences Society, whose members are University of Alberta, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, Simon Fraser University and University of Victoria. Our mission is to enable life-changing exploration and discovery in marine and coastal environments. Our programs support experiential learning and national/international research programs on climate challenges and solutions in coastal environments. Access to pristine coastal environments is a hallmark of BMSC research, and the BMSC maintains a fleet of commercial vessels that support ocean access while an amazing seawater delivery system supports the husbandry of animals on campus. BMSC is an important member of the local community and partnered with the Huu-ay-aht First Nations on several research, education and community initiatives.
BMSC is seeking a marine science diving and field operations assistant for the summer of 2025. Duties will include: scientific diving, surface safety attendant, subtidal and intertidal fieldwork, operation of small boats, deckhand, operational support of marine science diving (SCUBA cylinder filling, record keeping, update dive statistics) and other foreshore and marine safety duties as required.
In addition, the assistant may have the opportunity to assist researchers both diving and in intertidal regions. Responsibilities will depend largely on the needs of current research projects and BMSC programs. The assistant will be under the supervision of the Foreshore department reporting directly to the Diving and Safety Officer. Highly motivated individuals seeking practical opportunities in marine science are invited to apply.
This position will provide:
- Practical work experience at a renowned marine research field station.
- The opportunity to gain experience in a range of scientific diving and marine research techniques; develop diving operations and leadership skills documented and signed off by the DSO.
- Interaction and networking opportunities with active research divers and marine scientists.
- CAUS scientific diver 1 qualification (20m) and potential for CAUS Scientific Diver 2 qualification (40m).
Required Qualifications:
- Advanced diver certifications: Rescue Diver with leadership experience preferred
- Marine Basic First Aid or OFA Level 1, CPR and DAN O2 training
- Cold water diving experience
- Work Safe BC Occupational diver medical
- DAN insurance
- Full personal dive gear (with the exception of tanks). Gear must be well maintained and have proof of annual service.
- Small Vessel Operators Proficiency Certification (SVOP)
- Small Domestic Vessel Basic Safety or equivalent
- Experience operating vessels in an ocean environment
- Criminal Records Check required and must be included with the application.
Desirable Qualifications:
- CAUS qualification
- Divemaster or Instructor (current, insured status)
- First Aid/Oxygen instructor
- Scientific, Occupational, Technical training
- Advanced First Aid training
- VHF Radio Operators License
- Marine science/biology background
Desirable Experience and Qualities:
- Demonstrate strong teamwork abilities, leadership, collaboration, and good communication skills with diverse personalities
- Physically fit, hardworking and willing to perform weekend and after hours’ duty
- Mature judgment, reliability and tactfulness
- Safety conscious and strict adherence to dive regulations and boating/dive policy
- Familiarity with local marine organisms and keen interest in marine biology
- AGA/ Full face mask diving experience
- Willingness to adapt and pivot on short notice to support client needs
The position will begin April 22, 2025, and continue until August 29, 2025.
This is an hourly position for 37.5 hours per week. The hourly wage is $21/hour in addition to benefits. The position is unionized (CUPE 401) and members are entitled to benefits as defined in the Collective Agreement. Ability to work a flexible schedule that can include evenings and weekends is required.
Shared accommodations with other staff at the BMSC are available for rent, either in a room in a shared cabin or in a mobile home (both with kitchen facilities). Ability to work a flexible schedule that can include evenings and weekends is required.
Eligibility
Candidates must be Canadian citizens, or have Permanent Resident or Refugee status. Unfortunately, students on a work permit or visa are not eligible.
We are committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive campus that is accessible to all and free from harassment, bullying, and discrimination. The BMSC recognizes that diverse staff and clients benefit and enrich our workplace and the broader community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been, and continue to be, encountered by equity seeking groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, visible/racialized minorities, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ+. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their professional success while they are here. Strong candidates will demonstrate awareness of issues relating to diversity and inclusion in the sciences and science communication fields including the need to make them more accessible to a broader range of students and audiences.
We will respond to all applicants to confirm receipt of their application, however, only short-listed candidates will be further contacted for an interview. Please note that we will be out of office for the holidays, so you might not hear back from us until after the application deadline. Please apply by e-mail and include a cover letter, resume and contact info for two references (all saved as a single PDF document with filename BMSCdiveassistant2025_Your Surname.pdf). Use the subject line: “Application for Scientific Diving Assistant”. Send your application or any questions about this position to Dave Porter, skipper@bamfieldmsc.com. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2025.