Fishing Gear Technician

Canadian-Wildlife-Federation; Halifax; Hybrid; CAD 65,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Group RRSP with company matching

13 paid stat holidays

Paid vacation and sick days

Job summary

The Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) is seeking a Fishing Gear Technician to support trials of experimental gear across Atlantic Canada. You will test, demonstrate, and operate gear on commercial vessels, maintain equipment, troubleshoot problems, and collect data from field trials while coordinating with partners.

The role requires strong communication, the ability to work long days at sea, travel across the Maritimes, and lift up to 50–80 lbs.

Qualifications

• Experience working at sea on fishing vessels or field data collection.
• Knowledge of Atlantic Canadian fixed-gear fisheries.
• Experience with acoustic release technology and troubleshooting field equipment.

Responsibilities

• Test, demonstrate, and run gear trials on commercial vessels across Atlantic Canada.
• Assist planning of field projects, permits, and gear deliveries.
• Provide training and operational support on gear usage to external partners.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Data collection

Education

College Diploma in Ocean Technology

Tools

Acoustic release tech

Job description

Salary Range: $64,636.00 To $80,795.00 Annually

Reports to: Fisheries Engagement Specialist & Field Team Lead

Duration: Indeterminate

Location: Halifax, NS. Combination of in-office, work-from-home, and field work.

Hiring range: $64,636 to $80,795. Compensation above this range may be considered for candidates with significant experience or specialized expertise.

Who 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 Fishing Gear Technician who will help facilitate the trial and adoption of experimental fishing gear aimed at reducing entanglements and other human-related environmental threats for marine wildlife across Atlantic Canada. Working with a team of Technicians, this individual will test, demonstrate, and run innovative fishing gear trials for CWF's Marine Programs conservation projects. This role involves maintaining and repairing equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and managing data collection from field trials. The Technician works closely with external partners in the commercial fishing industry, providing support and guidance on gear usage to facilitate the smooth delivery of field trials. Gear being trialed primarily includes acoustic on-demand (e.g. ropeless) releases, but may also involve other gear adaptations as required. This individual will also assist in facilitating theCanFISH Gear Lending Program , including gear delivery and training, ongoing support, gear cleaning and maintenance.

The Fishing Gear Technician will be a primary point of contact between CWF and our fish harvester partners and therefore must have exceptional interpersonal skills and strong communication skills. A working knowledge of Atlantic Canadian fixed-gear fisheries would be considered an asset, but not required. The individual will be expected to and should be comfortable with making regular phone calls and initiating conversations with the public. The ideal candidate will be extremely organized and able to juggle multiple priorities, be self-directed, and able to work in a team environment. They should be technologically inclined and willing to learn how to operate, maintain and repair innovative fishing technologies independently. A willingness to troubleshoot and problem-solve independently is essential to the role. Previous experience working with acoustic technologies is considered a strong asset to the role. Experience in detailed data collection and analysis, including basic knowledge of statistical software would be an asset, but not required.

The individual must be comfortable working long days at-sea in all conditions on commercial fishing vessels and regularly lifting loads of up to 50lbs individually, and larger loads with assistance. This work will require travel across the Maritimes, therefore a valid driver’s license is required. Transportation, accommodations, and meals associated with fieldwork will be provided.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Tests, demonstrates, and runs innovative fishing gear trials on commercial fishing vessels across Atlantic Canada in accordance with program policies, plans, and procedures.
• Assists with the planning of fieldwork projects, including coordinating permits and deliveries of on-demand fishing gear.
• Provides training and operational support to external partners on gear usage and development, ensuring safe and proper use for project success.
• Maintains a high level of technical proficiency in on-demand fishing systems and low-breaking strength gear used in trials and lending programs.
• Applies skills in knot-tying, splicing, and configuring standard commercial fishing gear to operate and maintain technologies effectively.

Data Collection & Reporting:

• Collects, inputs, and analyzes data from field trials, ensuring data accuracy and completeness.
• Compiles reports summarizing methodologies, findings, and conservation outcomes for funders and project partners.
• Assists with purchasing day-to-day warehouse needs, tools, and equipment.
• Maintains the safety gear inventory, ensuring regular inspections are conducted and all gear complies with CWF safety requirements.
• Sources and evaluates suppliers for equipment and prepares cost/benefit comparisons for the Gear Specialist.
• Maintains records of damaged gear requiring repair or replacement, ensuring timely and accurate communication with program partners, manufacturers, and suppliers.
• Inspects and repairs gear after each use in the field and for other organizations as requested or contracted.

Other Responsibilities:

• Stays up to date on emerging research, technologies, and best practices to maintain technical expertise.
• Networks with external partners, attends industry events, and assists with other conservation activities as required.

Education and Experience:

• Work in marine environments, including experience on commercial fishing vessels or other vessels at sea (e.g. following scientific protocols, collecting detailed data, keeping accurate and organized records, collaborating with industry stakeholders).
• Working knowledge of Atlantic Canadian commercial fisheries.
• Working knowledge of acoustic release technology and/or how to troubleshoot field equipment.
• College Diploma or equivalent experience in Ocean Technology or a related field.
• 1+ years of related experience.
• Valid Driver's License.
• Strong communication skills, specifically with individuals from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of education.
• Extremely self-directed, able to identify needs of the program and take the initiative to accomplish tasks.
• Capability and drive to carry out active field work though challenging physical conditions.
• Ability to carry up to 40lbs individually and 80lbs with assistance.

Assets:

• Marine Emergency Duties (MED) training
• Marine First Aid

Work Conditions

• Full-time at 37.5 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. Overtime may be required, including occasional evening and weekend work.
• Hiring salary can range from $64,636 to $80,795. Compensation above this range may be considered for candidates with significant experience or specialized expertise.
• Location: Halifax, NS. Largely working at CWF's Halifax Office (110 Chain Lake Dr, Unit 3J), with some work remotely from home, and out in the field including on fishing vessels.
• Travel throughout Maritime provinces as required, including on fishing vessels.
• Interacts with fish harvesters, other third-party individuals, and the public.
• Must have valid NS driver's license.

Why work with us?

• We are a rapidly growing team of forward-thinking individuals who all share a common passion: wildlife and habitat!
• Friendly and casual work environment.
• Opportunity to expand your network of conservation and program experts.
• We are committed to work-life balance.
• We are committed to building a more diverse workforce.
• Relevant professional development opportunities for career growth.
• We offer a competitive benefits plan at no cost to employees which include health, dental, vision, and LTD. Enrollment to Employee Assistance Program.
• We offer Group RSP enrollment with up to 5% matching.
• 13 paid stat holidays per year.
• Generous time-off policies include paid vacation days, sick days, float days, and appointment time.
• Complimentary subscription to our Canadian Wildlife magazine.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

August 26 th , 2026

CWF is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an inclusive, accessible hiring process. Please notify the HR Department if you require any accommodations throughout the recruitment process.

CWF does not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants. All applications are reviewed and evaluated by human members of our hiring team.