Quantitative Ecologist

CSS, Inc. is looking for a qualified candidate to provide quantitative ecology support to the Marine Mammal & Turtle Division (MMTD) of the Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC). This individual will support data management and analysis for the MMTD, including the application of statistical models and/or the development of simulations to address complex scientific problems. The candidate will also design projects, including the collection and management of data and documented workflows in accessible software tools.

Responsibilities

Data & Policy Analytics

• Develop analytical approaches to address complex questions in marine mammal spatial and/or behavioral ecology related to MMTD priorities and legislative mandates, like the MMPA and ESA, as well as administrative priorities and policies, including assessments of the impact of stressors on marine mammal populations. This includes:

• Evaluation of animal movement and habitat ecology

• Development of spatially explicit statistical models representing animal abundance

• Development and implementation of models of marine mammal population dynamics

• Development of quantitative risk assessment approaches evaluating the effects of natural and man-made stressors on marine mammal populations

• Identify key data gaps and develop/propose approaches to improve or modify data collection efforts to address these gaps.

Fieldwork

• Participate in fieldwork on an as-needed basis, including driving government vehicles when necessary to complete tasks. Participate in field data collection efforts intermittently, including providing advice and assistance with data collection and data management protocols.

Coordination and Collaboration

• Work with other MMTD team members to formulate analytical solutions to questions relative to marine mammal management that integrate existing data streams within NOAA.

Reporting and Publication

• Develop written technical reports and peer-reviewed publications documenting the findings of projects and disseminate scientific results via presentations to diverse groups of stakeholders.

Project-Specific Meetings

• Attend planning and coordination meetings with MMTD researchers either virtually or in person.

Qualifications

• MS Degree (or higher) in Marine Science, Biology, Oceanography, Ecology, Statistics, or a related field of study or BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus five years of relevant experience
• Experience with statistical analysis to investigate species-environment relationships, management of large datasets, and visualizing model outputs, including species distribution maps and other products.
• Experience working with oceanographic and/or climatological data are preferred.
• Experience with the implementation of legislative mandates, such as the Marine Mammal Protection and Endangered Species Act for highly endangered marine mammal species, e.g., Rice's whales or North Atlantic right whales.
• Experience developing survey/sampling design, relationships, and queries to support analyses of biological data from marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles, plus ancillary environmental and oceanographic data collected for long-term research studies.
• Experience collecting marine biological data for research programs in support of government resource management recommendations.
• Experience providing technical advice to different stakeholders and research collaborators on marine science and marine mammal research, and conservation.
• Proficient inR/Python, GIS, or similar statistical analysis software for marine biological applications.
• Ability to organize, process, disseminate, and archive complex biological and environmental datasets and applications using the latest data management tools, especially Cloud-based solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to present technical information to a non-technical audience, publish and present research findings at peer-reviewed forums, including conferences, workshops, and leadership briefings.
• Ability to lift/carry at least 40lbs and work outdoors for extended periods.
• Initial physical exam and/or periodic medical monitoring, including drug screening, may be required for sea-going roles.
• Ability to pass a National Agency Check (NACI) and maintain it throughout the duration of employment.
• US Citizenship or legal permanent residence ("green card") is required.Location: Miami, FL, Beaufort, NC, or Pascagoula, MS (On Site)