Marine Biologist

Summary about this job

Detail information about job Marine Biologist. Terms and conditions vacancy

About the business

Out Of The Blue Adventures is a new Ballina- Byron Bay business operating first-class Whale Watching, Scenic Cruises & Private Charters on a purpose built, modern eco vessel. We also use our vessel for various research projects with our Marine Biologist as well as offer eco tours, which talks about the area's history, key points and wildlife. The vessel takes 20 passengers and is the only operator of its kind in the region. The fundamentals of our business are passion and dedication, which ensures we create memorable experiences for all our guests.

About the role

To study the anatomy, physiology, functions, characteristics, behaviour and environments of all forms of life living in the sea and connected water bodies on the NSW North Coast. The marine biologist will be researching and exploring organisms, both plants and animals, within the marine biology field. 

The marine biologist may carry out observations and assessments, in order to determine the health of the local environment.

The Marine Biologist will also share findings and provide education regarding marine life to guests aboard the vessel. He/ She will also be involved with local Marine conservation groups and will be conducting research for them to provide up to date research to the public, marine science students and organisations that can use the relevant data.

The position of the Marine Biologist provides credibility for the business, as well as reinforces its ultimate eco agenda mission. "Educating visitors and local community about the areas marine life, ecosystem, vulnerable species while delivering a unique and memorable ocean adventure, so that we continue to support and promote marineresearch."

He/She is the vital link between local marine conservation groups and the business.

Duties & Responsibilities

Duties & Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Conducting scientific experiments on-site and / or in a lab.
2. Making observations, measurements and assessments.
3. Collecting and analysing data.
4. Participating in maintenance projects to maintain and upkeep the vessel including but not limited to cleaning.
5. Narrating whale watch excursions, while educating passengers on local marine life and research findings.
6. Delivering safety briefings and communicating information to crew and maritime authorities.
7. Communicating and collaborating with multiple local marine conservation groups and scientists.
8. Managing the daily operations of the vessel including, but not limited to organising passengers etc.
9. Observing and recording South Pacific humpback whale behaviours and photos to contribute to scientific knowledge while working with sponsored researchers.
10. Collecting samples and specimens from the ocean and other water bodies.
11. Monitoring and surveying the health of Cape Byron Marine Park.
12. Sharing the collected data with other researchers and the public.
13. Providing data to Marine Park managers and researchers with up-to-date information on wildlife health status and trends, the distribution of protected and iconic species, and early warnings of environmental impacts.

Benefits and perks

As a marine biologist on board Out of the Blue Adventures vessel, it is a unique opportunity to help monitor the populations of dolphins & whales in the local area. The Marine biologist will observe dolphins and whales all along the coastline providing important information on the status and health of dolphins and whales in the area.

Skills and experience

Essential qualifications

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Biology
• First Aid & CPR
• General Purpose Hand
• Standards of Training and Certification for Watchkeepers (STCW 95)
  Work experience & skills
• Academic & trades qualifications
  Essential qualifications
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Biology
• First Aid & CPR
• General Purpose Hand
• Standards of Training and Certification for Watchkeepers (STCW 95)
  Work experience & skills

• Essential experience

• Must have a minimum of 5 years working on boats as a marine biologist and working in similar roles.
• Previous experience with laboratory experiments, field work, data collection and entry.
• Previous experience monitoring and surveying the health of marine eco systems and wildlife.
• Previous experience with observing and recording humpback whale behaviours.
• Previous experience conducting meaningful studies, recording data, observing marine mammals in their environment, and shared this process and enthusiasm with the public through outreach.
• Previous experience in ecotourism and handling guests and customer satisfaction.
• Has previously or is at the present, actively involved with Marine Conservation organisations/groups.
• Experience administering first aid when necessary.
• Experience building satisfied customer relations 

• Essential qualities or behaviours

• A genuine love for the profession and willingness to put in hard work.
• Passionate about aquatic life and must enjoy spending most of time around
  water bodies.
• Must show great dedication towards their job.
• Excellent swimmer
• Great listening skills & ability to follow instructions.
• Knack for research and innovation as the job mostly revolves around carrying
  out investigations.
• Observant & have zero tolerance for errors that might affect the reliability of
  research findings.
• Good math, science, and communication skills are necessary.
• Confident speaker
• Computations & testing skills
• Great customer service
• Interpersonal and communication skills
• Operations management
• Ability to work in fast paced dynamic environments
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Strong work ethic
• Excellent organisation
• Open to training and development
• Safety focused
• Customer orientated
• Diverse knowledge on global issues & threats facing marine eco systems.