Shellfish Biologist II- Dive Safety Officer

Jamestown Sklallam Tribe; Sequim (WA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is seeking a Shellfish Biologist II – Dive Safety Officer to manage shellfish resources and oversee dive operations in Sequim, WA. You will lead field surveys, data collection, and analysis, ensuring compliance with tribal and regulatory standards while supporting conservation efforts.

The role requires an open water diver certification, 4 years of marine research experience, and strong collaboration with interagency partners.

Qualifications

• BS in biological sciences with shellfish/marine biology focus; MS preferred.
• 4 years of professional experience in marine research or management.
• Knowledge of Pacific Northwest tribal fisheries.
• Open Water Diver certification; advanced certifications preferred; DAN O2 certification.
• Strong communication and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Analyze shellfish population data and review management options with biologists.
• Notify tribal fishers of schedules, quotas, and regulations.
• Monitor harvest activities for compliance with conservation agreements.
• Prepare technical and harvest reports and maintain data inventories.
• Coordinate with Tribal, State and Federal fisheries officials on technical issues.

Skills

Shellfish biology

Dive safety

Data analysis

Field surveys

Marine ecology

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (shellfish/marine focus)

Master's degree preferred

Tools

MS Office

Database software

Dive equipment maintenance

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe - Sequim, WA, Position Type: Full Time, Salary Range: $70795.00 - $99113.00Salary, Are you passionate about marine biology, shellfish conservation, and protecting valuable natural resources? The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is seeking a knowledgeable and motivated Shellfish Biologist II – Dive Safety Officer to support the management, conservation, and enhancement of treaty-reserved shellfish resources throughout the Tribe’s usual and accustomed fishing area.

Essential Functions

Technical and Communications Support for Harvest Management:

• Collect and/or access and analyze shellfish population data (with a focus on intertidal and subtidal dive fisheries), review management options in consultation with other biologists, and make recommendations to the Shellfish Management Biologist regarding management options, harvest schedules and proposed regulations.
• Notify Tribal fishers of fishery schedules, quotas/harvest limits and regulations.
• Monitor and evaluate harvest activities to ensure that harvest proceeds in an orderly and structured manner, and that harvest levels are consistent with resource conservation and management agreements.
• Prepare technical and/or harvest reports and maintain shellfish population and catch accounting databases, including fish ticket entry and reconciliation.

Interagency Coordination and Information:

• Serve as liaison to other Tribal, State and Federal fisheries officials to represent JST in technical issues affecting shellfish and marine and coastal habitats, including participation in interagency technical working groups, in JST’s usual and accustomed fishing area.
• Maintain current information on scientific and technical developments affecting Tribal shellfish resources.

Field Operations:

• Duties include performing shellfish habitat and population surveys for intertidal and/or subtidal species, monitoring shellfish condition and water quality, collecting and processing biological data, and shellfish enhancement implementation as required.
• Responsible for researching, purchasing, and maintaining all field equipment and gear used for shellfish research and management activities.

Technical Support for Enhancement and Aquaculture:

• Duties may include planning shellfish enhancement projects; designing water quality and/or marine biotoxin sampling regimes; data tracking and communications related to on-going water quality/biotoxin monitoring; and tasks/reporting related to shellfish sanitation program requirements.
• Provide technical support to Tribal shellfish aquaculture operations as needed.

Dive Safety Officer (DSO):

• Ensure that all diving is done in compliance with the Tribe’s Dive Operations Manual.
• Responsible for approval and monitoring of all scientific dive operations; custody of administrative and dive-related medical records of all divers under his/her auspices; custody of all staff diving equipment records used in diving operations, inclusive of maintenance and service performed; schedule periodic dive proficiency training; maintain and recommend changes to the Tribe’s Dive Operations Manual.
• Serve to organize, implement, and maintain records for the certification, proficiency training, and medical examinations of Staff and Tribal fishery divers as outlined in Jamestown Tribal Fishing Code Section 6.06.07(B);1-10.

Supervision:

• This position is responsible for the supervision of the geoduck harvest monitor and periodic supervision of other Fisheries Program technicians as needed. The Shellfish Biologist II – Dive Safety Officer will coordinate the geoduck harvest monitor’s schedule, including biotoxin sample collection, and arrange for monitors for selected tribal shellfish harvest activities; supervise the entry and dissemination of catch and biological data; and assure all JST policies, procedures and workplace practices are adhered to.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences with course emphasis, or experience, in shellfish or marine biology or ecology. Master’s Degree preferred.
• Four (4) years of professional experience in marine research or management.
• Knowledge of Tribal fisheries programs in the Pacific Northwest.
• Open Water Diver certification required; advanced certifications preferred. DAN O2 certification with experience conducting scientific diving operations in cold water environments.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills including effective verbal and written communication.
• Demonstrate initiative, work independently with little supervision.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, relevant database software, and technical equipment.
• Ability to travel locally and regionally as assigned.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License.
• Must be able to successfully pass criminal background investigation.

Why Work for the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe?

Join an organization committed to protecting natural resources, supporting Tribal sovereignty, and preserving the environment for future generations.

Located on Washington's beautiful Olympic Peninsula, the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe offers the opportunity to build a meaningful career surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Olympic National Park, and miles of scenic coastline.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful contribution to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management.
• Work alongside experienced fisheries professionals and Tribal resource managers.
• Participate in impactful scientific research and field operations.
• Support the protection of treaty-reserved resources and Tribal fishing rights.
• Enjoy the exceptional outdoor recreation and quality of life the Olympic Peninsula has to offer.