FISHERIES OBSERVER ROLE IN THE SOUTHERN OCEAN
Macalister Elliott & Partners Ltd (MEP) are seeking experienced fisheries observers to work on longline vessels targeting toothfish in the Southern Ocean, around South Georgia. Deployment dates are to be confirmed but are likely to be mid- to the end of May 2022, from the Falkland Islands or possibly Montevideo. The fishing season will close on the 14th September 2022 at the latest (maximum length of deployment is 4 months). Competitive remuneration rates are offered alongside all travel costs. This year, the South Georgia toothfish fishery will be managed exclusively under South Georgia’s domestic fishery regulations (as a UKOT), however the observer requirements will mirror those of CCAMLR’s scheme of intentional scientific observation for which longline experience along with fish tagging will be very important.
Duties include: • Collection of biometric data on target species; • Collection of biometric data on bycatch; • Tagging of target and bycatch species; • Marine mammal and seabird observations.
Qualifications: Candidates should have a background in marine biology or fisheries and with relevant experience and certifications (evidence of which will be required), specifically: • Previous employment as a fisheries observer or fisheries officer - essential; • Experience in sampling techniques, otolith extraction, sex/maturity identification, associated with work on research or fishing vessels - highly desirable; • Experience as a fisheries observer on-board longline vessels - desirable; • Experience of scientific fish tagging - highly desirable; • Personal Survival Techniques or Basic Sea Survival certificate recognised by the International Convention on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95), or a national equivalent, awarded by an accredited organisation - essential; • ENG-1 or equivalent Seafarer’s Medical certificate, awarded by an accredited physician. Certificates exceeding the above minimum standards, such as BOSIET sea survival or UKOOA Offshore Medical certificates, will also be accepted - essential; • Full Covid-19 vaccine - essential.
For any enquiries or to apply for the position please email mep@macalister-elliott.com by Friday 6th May 2022.