Role Overview

 The North Coast Cetacean Research Initiative (NCCRI) was established in Prince Rupert in 2014 and has since grown to become a dynamic community-based program of cetacean research, conservation, and public outreach with broad collaborative links with industry, government, First Nations, and educational institutions.  The NCCRI contributes to cetacean conservation by upholding several core program mandates. These include (1) conducting research focused on cetacean abundance, distribution, and habitat use in nearshore waters to Prince Rupert; (2) developing and advancing citizen science and applied conservation projects such as the BC Cetacean Sightings Network and the Whale Report Alert System; (3) engaging in conservation management by providing expert knowledge for local advisory boards and collaborating with stakeholder groups (4) promoting public outreach and education that engages north coast citizens and mariners;(5) maintaining a North coast presence and acting as a representative and liaison for Ocean Wise in northern communities; and (6) collaborating and supporting the marine mammal research group and the Director of marine mammal research.

The Program Coordinator will work closely with and assist the team to ensure the deliverables and goals of the NCCRI are met.

Key Accountabilities

• Plays a key role in the administration and operation of the North Coast Cetacean Research Initiative (NCCRI)
• Provides support to the Research Coordinator/Acting Manager/ to execute NCCRI research initiatives on the North Coast by
• Works collaboratively with Ocean Wise’ Victoria and Vancouver-based marine mammal research teams to develop, operate, and promote the Whale Report Alert System project in coastal BC
• Involves and engages north coast citizens and mariners in marine mammal research and stewardship
• Acts as a liaison between Ocean Wise and North Coast communities, organizations, and programs

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• BSc or MSc in population biology, marine science, geography or a related field
• 3 – 5 years experience in research or research support
• Small Vessel Operator’s Proficiency certification, boating experience an asset
• Marine Emergency Duties A-1 certification
• Emergency First Aid level 1
• Restricted Operator Marine Radio License (R-COM)
• Valid BC driver’s license

Skills

• Experience writing grants and seeking and acquiring grant funding is ideal
• Excellent public speaking skills; able to tailor presentations to various audiences
• Knowledge of cetacean biology and research techniques
• Strong writing skills, both for scientific and popular articles
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to work productively and efficiently with minimal supervision
• Demonstrates the ability to form relationships and work with multiple stakeholder groups, often using remote platforms for calls and video meetings
• Knowledge of marine mammal research and conservation programs in B.C.
• Able to liaise and collaborate with BCCSN observers, Ocean Wise staff, volunteers and Board members, representatives of government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research institutions
• Knowledge of MS Access and ArcGIS or QGIS
• Excellent project management and time management skills
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and in a remote office.

Working Conditions:

• Works independently in a satellite office in Prince Rupert with 1-2 other staff/contractors
• Frequent travel to attend off-site meetings and presentations.
• Boat-based fieldwork in remote conditions for up to 3 weeks/yr.
• Occasional work on evenings or weekends
• Candidate must own or have access to a vehicle for work-related travel (mileage and gas compensated)

For more information and how to apply, click here.