General Description

As a Recreational Angler Interviewer, the incumbent will conduct the field portion of the Access-Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS). This important research study, sponsored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) conducts face-to-face interviews with marine recreational anglers. Recreational Angler Interviewers will travel to assigned sites to interview anglers about their fishing experiences, and collect a variety of information, and (when possible) weigh, measure, and identify fish by species name that the anglers have caught. Assigned sites can include beaches, banks, piers, docks, jetties, and access points for private, charter, and head boats, including marinas, boat ramps and other points of entry to marine waters. Recreational Angler Interviewers are responsible for completing field intercept forms with anglers at the various sites in addition to completing several other required study forms.

Duties

The responsibilities of the incumbent will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Successfully complete training, including survey procedures and fish identification tests;
• Follow documented APAIS survey procedures;
• Travel to assigned fishing access sites to interview anglers about their fishing experiences;
• Occasionally work on head boats (for-hire vessels) for at-sea data collection;
• Identify key species of fish with extreme accuracy and with little aid of field materials (up to 25 or more different species; guides and training will be provided);
• Complete the survey on a tablet and submit it to the supervisor as instructed;
• Serve as a primary point of contact for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the recreational fishermen;
• Answer questions and explain the importance of this federally-funded study;
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervision

The Recreational Angler Interviewer is an employee of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC), however, reports to the state supervisor daily. State supervisors make decisions concerning hiring and performance evaluations of the Recreational Angler Interviewer.

Work Environment

On average field staff work 2 to 3 assignments per week; however, this position may require individuals who will be able to work up to five (5) 8-hour shifts a week if necessary to complete assignments as scheduled. Staff must have flexible availability and be able to work any and all of the following shift times plus transit time: 2am-8am; 8am-2pm; 2pm-8pm; 8pm-2am; 11am-5pm. This position will require regular weekend work (including Fridays), and qualified candidates must be willing and able to work at least 16 hours each weekend.

This position is eligible for annual merit-based raises.

This position is located primarily at fishing access sites in the State of New York, with occasional office days at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Marine Resources in Kings Park, NY. Work is performed primarily in an outdoor setting. The incumbent will report directly to the state APAIS biologist. The Recreational Angler Interviewer is an hourly, temporary employee. This position supports seasonal data collection from March through December, or until the incumbent has worked 999 hours. Payment is based on hours worked and qualifies for overtime pay. This position is not eligible for benefits.

Training

Recreational Angler Interviewer will be required to attend an in-person paid training. Trainees must successfully complete training to continue employment on the project including passing a fish species identification test and a survey procedures test with no less than 90% accuracy.

Qualifications

Applicants must be at least 20 years old have a valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle; be willing to travel reasonable distances to reach assigned sites; and be available on weekends and weekdays, with additional availability during some evenings, nights, and holidays. Individuals should be comfortable approaching and speaking with strangers; handling, measuring, and weighing fish; and working outside for extended periods in variable weather conditions. Applicants must have meticulous attention to detail and be able to complete, organize, and safely store electronic data and paperwork. Proven communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work independently, organize work, and solve problems following prescribed procedures should all be demonstrated. Knowledge of fish species with experience in the area of recreational angling and familiarity with marine waterways in their local area is preferred. Must be eligible to work in the United States.