Lynker Technologies
Fisheries Dockside Sampler Southeast Region Head Boat Survey

US-SC-Charleston

Job ID: 2026-1602
Type: Contract
# of Openings: 1
NOAA - Charleston, SC

Overview

Lynker Corporation is seeking a Fisheries Dockside Sampler to support NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC), Fisheries Statistics Division (FSD), and the Southeast Region Head Boat Survey (SRHS). This proposed role will support biological sampling, fishery-dependent data collection, data entry and quality control, outreach, and scientific support for recreational head boat fisheries across the Southeastern United States. Hiring for this position will be contingent on contract award*.

The SEFSC supports fisheries science across the Southeast Region, including the South Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean. FSD supports the collection of data directly from fishery participants through logbooks, dealer reports, dockside sampling, and coordination with state, commission, and federal partners. The SRHS collects catch, effort, and biological samples from recreational fishermen to support stock assessments, fisheries management, and scientific reporting.

Responsibilities

Duties of the Fisheries Dockside Sampler will include the following:

• Provide biological sampling from the recreational head boat fishery in the Southeastern United States from North Carolina to Texas.
• Serve as the NOAA Fisheries field representative with head boat owners, operators, and anglers in the assigned sampling area.
• Identify and enumerate individual fish to the species level from landed catches.
• Collect length measurements and record weights and sex from individual fish in accordance with sampling protocols and goals.
• Collect fish otoliths and spines in accordance with sampling protocols and goals.
• Enter, check, validate, and quality control data daily.
• Provide data to appropriate researchers at the direction of the Chief, Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch.
• Process, perform QA/QC, and analyze biological samples collected during sampling operations.
• Upload biological samples to the Oracle system by the 15th of each month for the previous month.
• Mail otoliths and spines to the Beaufort Laboratory by the 30th of the following month.
• Use custom data entry applications and database software such as Microsoft Excel, Oracle, and Access to summarize data and provide results.
• Review daily Trip Reports to identify errors and inconsistencies for vessels in the area of responsibility.
• Review dockside sample data for accuracy and submit to the Oracle system within seven days of the date sampled.
• Assist FSD staff with collection, data entry, and processing of fishery-dependent and fishery-independent data as needed.
• Participate in weekly and quarterly administrative calls and respond to unscheduled calls or emails.
• Submit Weekly Activity Reports documenting work completed.
• Conduct regular checks, maintenance, and precautions to ensure government equipment remains in good working order.
• Assist with vessel reporting compliance, including contacting captains or vessel staff for missing Trip Reports.
• Update and submit Head Boat Activity Reports weekly in accordance with protocols.
• Participate in surveys and related research projects in the field and laboratory.
• Participate in public outreach efforts, including meeting with fishermen and participating in public events to educate the public about SRHS and fisheries management in the region.
• Prepare for and present, facilitate, or participate in position-related workshops, scientific meetings, symposiums, and public forums, including stock assessment data workshops, Fishery Management Council meetings, and Port Agent Annual Meetings.

Qualifications

The Fisheries Dockside Sampler should have the following:

• Expert knowledge of Southeast U.S. Atlantic marine fish identification.
• BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus three (3) years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of applying basic concepts, principles, and methodologies of data management and analysis of fishery data.
• Ability to perform statistical analysis and provide results in presentation or report form.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Proficiency in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys.
• Computer literacy and experience with common word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs.
• Experience collecting catch and effort information from recreational fishermen.
• Knowledge of collection of routine biological samples, including lengths, age structures, gonads, and related samples from marine fish.

Work Environment

The place of performance for this task is offsite at any coastal location in the Southeastern U.S. from North Carolina to Texas. Facility access is from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Personnel shall perform during normal operating hours, five days per week for the performance period, not to exceed 40 hours per week except when overtime is approved in advance. Deviations from this schedule must be coordinated with the COR. Overtime and travel are anticipated and authorized for this task order, subject to required advance approval.

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee owned business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.

We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities – creatively and effectively.

Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:

• Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.

*This position is not currently funded and is contingent upon contract award. Employment is subject to successful completion of any required background checks and security processing required by the customer.