Gear Technical Specialist - Jobs in Beechville

Job Description

Your Connection to WildlifeAs one of Canada’s largest not for profit leaders in wildlife conservation, research, and advocacy, we are seeking to fill the following position… Gear Technical Specialist(Fixed-term)Fixed-term until March 31, 2025 with the possibility of extensionLocation: Halifax, NSWho we are The Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) is a national not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to ensuring an appreciation of our natural world and a lasting legacy of healthy wildlife and habitat. By spreading knowledge of human impacts on the environment, developing and delivering educational programs, conducting research, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, and advocating for effective wildlife policy and regulation, CWF strives for a future in which Canada’s wildlife is conserved for generations to come. Diversity is a fundamental part of our core values; we create every opportunity to become more inclusive. We encourage applications from qualified candidates from all diverse communities including, but not limited to, Indigenous persons, racially visible persons, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+, and women in non-traditional roles.Position Overview:We are seeking a skilled Gear Technical Specialist to join our Marine Program based in Halifax, NS as it relates to overseeing marine-based equipment, namely acoustic technologies and mechanical apparatus. The Specialist will primarily be responsible for overseeing gear through the purchasing, inventory, procurement and shipment of goods, and maintenance associated with the gear, ensuring quality standards are met. They will provide expert opinion on gear technologies and logistics to aid in overall decision-making as it relates to our program of trialing innovative fishing technologies (e.g. on-demand or ropeless gear) for use in fisheries to mitigate whale entanglement.They will be a key player in gear trials, particularly those involving new technologies to the program (e.g. acoustic technologies) and will be responsible for using their technical expertise to adapt all new technologies to the program. This individual will report to and work closely with the Fisheries Engagementamp; Field Program Lead to maintain gear and tool budgets, ensure proper insurance is maintained, and assign tasks to Fishing Gear Technologists relating to gear inventory. They will also report on performance of the Fishing Gear Technologists as it pertains to their use and maintenance capabilities of gear.Responsibilities:Gear Maintenance:

• Update detailed gear maintenance procedures and protocols.
• Develop protocols for new gear, in conjunction with manufacturer requirements and recommendations.
• Develop training curriculum and train Technologists in new gear operation and all maintenance procedures.
• Responsible for all maintenance and repair of equipment, with assistance from Fishing Gear Technologists when required.
• Collaborate with gear manufacturers to continuously improve maintenance capabilities of the Marine Program through increased training and collaboration.
• Liaise with partners (e.g. fish harvesters) when required, such as when gear needs to be serviced.

Purchasing and Logistics:

• Responsible for all warehouse purchasing, shipping, and receiving. Including obtaining quotes, submitting purchase requisitions, obtaining vendor information, and coordinating approvals.
• Develop vendor contracts and communicate with vendors while maintaining positive relations.
• Conduct all inventory processes/management, including maintaining asset calculations and price lists.
• Conduct cost and benefit comparisons to inform purchasing decisions.

Gear Management:

• Maintain expert-level knowledge and skills pertaining to all on-demand gear and other technologies used in CWF Marine Programs.
• Determine what new technologies should be entered into the Marine Field Programs (e.g. trials and CanFISH).
• Maintain an up-to-date detailed inventory of gear.
• Liaise with gear manufacturers and provide regular feedback and annual reports

General Tasks:

• Participate in the development of trial protocols and planning involving new technologies by providing expert opinion to the Field Trial Coordinator as it relates to new technologies.
• Contribute expertise in the use of new technologies and develop methods to configure to our fisheries and trial circumstances using their enhanced technical skills
• Complete fieldwork in various locations throughout the Maritimes on commercial fishing vessels, such as leading the setup of new gear and lead trials involving new gear.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or technical diploma in environmental sciences or related field, and advanced diploma in ocean technology or equivalent training.
• 1-2 years of experience in a similar role.
• Expertise in marine acoustic equipment and technologies.

Skills and Abilities:

• Work in marine environments, including experience on commercial fishing vessels or other vessels at sea.
• Working knowledge of Atlantic Canadian commercial fisheries.
• Strong working knowledge of acoustic release technology and how to troubleshoot field equipment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Extremely self-directed, able to identify needs of the program and take the initiative to accomplish tasks.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Assets:

• Marine First Aid
• Forklift Training
• Marine Emergency Duties (MED) training
• French language skills

_________________________________________________________________________________Working Conditions:

• Full-time, fixed-term position ending March 31, 2025 with a possibility of extension.
• Monday through Friday.
• Location: Based at CWF’s Halifax Warehouse (110 Chain Lake Dr., Halifax, NS). Combination of in-office, at-home, and off-site work.
• Noise disruptions from open-concept office and warehouse.
• Ability to lift objects weighing up to 50lbs (alone) or more (with assistance).
• Repeated movements (crouching, kneeling), including standing for extended periods of time.
• Manual dexterity to tie knots, splices, soldering, electrical and mechanical work.
• Ability to operate a forklift, truck, and trailer.
• Ability to perform field work at-sea or on a vessel when required (3-6 weeks per year), which can entail long hours and variable weather conditions.

Why work with us

• We are a rapidly growing team of forward-thinking individuals who all share a common passion, the Canadian outdoors!
• Friendly and casual work environment
• Transparency between various levels of management
• We are committed to building a more diverse workforce
• Work-life balance
• Opportunity to expand your network of conservation experts

APPLICATION DEADLINE:October 1, 2024HOW TO APPLY: Cover letter and resume should be submitted. Only the candidates who meet the qualifications and experience for the position will be contacted for an interview. We thank you for your interest in the Canadian Wildlife Federation.We are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and accessible workplace for all its candidates and employees by supporting their accessibility and accommodation needs throughout the employment lifecycle. We ask that job applications please identify any accommodation requirements by contacting the Human Resources department when selected for an interview. Powered by JazzHR