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 boats and that support ocean access while an amazing seawater delivery system supports the husbandry of animals on the 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.
The Position
BMSC is seeking a marine science diving and field operations assistant for the summer of 2023. 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 with research and education programs. 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 small vessels in an ocean environment
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 (College/University degree or currently enrolled)
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
