Morgan State University’s Patuxent Environmental and Aquatic Research Laboratory (PEARL) is hiring a full-time Coastal Operations Specialist. Responsibilities include field work, vessel operation, gear deployment/retrieval, and laboratory support for four essential PEARL research programs: Blue Crab Survey, Shellfish Aquaculture, Carbon Monitoring, and Microplastics. This position requires excellent time and resource allocation; exceptional judgment in challenging and uncertain coastal conditions to ensure safe operation of vessels (20’-25’ in length); regular communication with supervisor and project leads; and guidance of PEARL undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty engaged in research and environmental monitoring. 

This is a one-year term position that has the potential for continuation for an additional two years (three years total) contingent upon satisfactory performance. The annual salary rate for the position will range between $43,000-$52,000, commensurate with experience. 

Minimum Qualifications include:

  • High School Diploma
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Maryland Boater Safety Certificate (or ability/willingness to obtain one)
  • Experience operating boats/vessels for work or research purposes
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Willingness to work in challenging physical conditions (rain, cold, heat, wind)
  • Physical strength and dexterity to captain vessel while guiding the retrieval of crab pots, oyster cages and other field equipment as necessary 
  • Experience with data management 
  • Experience with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)

 

Preferred Qualifications 

Other preferences for consideration (but not required) include:

  • A bachelor’s degree, advanced degree, or specialized training in a relevant scientific discipline
  • U.S. Coast Guard Operator license (also known as 6-pack license)
  • Experience working in a field station or biological research laboratory setting
  • Support/involvement in environmental research involving undergraduate and graduate students and university faculty
  • Knowledge of equipment, systems and features in marine biological research laboratories, including flow-through seawater systems, wet laboratories, and shellfish hatcheries
  • Experience with the collection and management of scientific data
  • Ability to diagnose/maintain/repair/operate laboratory and field equipment
  • Experience launching and trailering vessels