OCEAN CONSERVATION

Position: Robson Bight Marine Warden (Vessel Operator / Research Observer)
Organization: Cetus Research & Conservation Society
Location: Alert Bay & a rustic field camp on West Cracroft Island, North Vancouver Island BC

Cetus Research & Conservation Society is a non-profit marine conservation organization dedicated to protecting the lives of whales in the wild through research, education, and direct intervention. We work in the field to reduce disturbances to marine mammals on the coast of British Columbia and promote respect for our marine environment through monitoring and outreach. For more information please visit our website: http://www.cetussociety.org

Robson Bight Warden Program

This program is operated by a seasonal field team in the waters around the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve in Johnstone Strait, BC. The ecological reserve lies within the critical habitat of Northern Resident Killer Whales. Working both on the water and from a land-based observation site, we monitor the presence of whales and vessel traffic in this unique area.

We are hiring one person to fill the following position:

Robson Bight Marine Warden (Vessel Operator / Research Observer)

Dates: mid-late June to early September
Type of position: seasonal contract (full-time), with a rotating schedule of 2-weeks-on, 1-week-off for the duration of the season
Rate of pay: $17/hour (plus dinners)

The provided accommodation is camping and staff must bring their own tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag. Tent pads, tarps, and cooking equipment are provided. Priority will go to those who are local (residing on Vancouver Island or Lower Mainland/Sea to Sky) with access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities:

The warden will be individually responsible for safely operating a rigid-hulled inflatable boat between the hours of 9am – 5pm. The warden will patrol the study area daily, contacting vessels near the ecological reserve or in the vicinity of whales to provide education about the reserve and safe driving around marine mammals. The warden will educate boaters, kayakers, park visitors, and other members of the public about marine mammal viewing guidelines, marine species at risk, and conservation issues. Other tasks include providing interpretive talks to tour groups and conducting local beach clean-ups. The warden will supervise volunteers, overseeing data collection and involving volunteers with other daily responsibilities while ensuring a safe, productive work environment. Camp duties will include cooking, cleaning, and general maintenance.

Knowledge, skill, and ability required:

• Experienced vessel operator with the ability to safely operate small rigid-hulled inflatable vessels in coastal waters, including rough waters with limited visibility
• Mental stamina to work on the water in a professional manner for several days at a time
• Knowledge of boat/motor maintenance, trouble shooting, and repair (preferred)
• Exceptional communication skills and experience with public education and outreach
• Background knowledge of local marine mammal species and current conservation issues
• Aptitude for multi-tasking and working in a dynamic environment
• Strong observation skills and careful attention to detail
• Ability to remain calm in tense situations
• Ability to carry 45 lbs of gear to and from the vessel/base camp (this varies from across the street to up and down a steep rocky shoreline)
• Ability to hike 6.4 km (round trip) on a rugged hiking trail between the base camp and the observation site if required (takes approximately 1 hour each way)
• Ability to work 8-11-hour shifts, outdoors, in all weather conditions
• Willingness to work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays
• Comfortable living and working in a remote wilderness camp in bear country with staff and volunteers in a communal setting
• Extensive hiking, camping, remote fieldwork experience

Required Certifications:

• Small Vessel Operators Proficiency certificate (SVOP)
• Marine Emergency Duties certificate (MED-A3 or SDV-BS)
• Marine Radio Operator’s licence (ROC-M)
• First Aid & CPR certificate (Wilderness & Remote First Aid preferred)
• Class 5 BC Driver’s licence

To apply:

Please email the following as a single file (PDF or MS Word) to Nicola Rammell at robsonbight@cetussociety.org with the subject line “Robson Bight Application 2021”:

• a cover letter describing how you meet the requirements outlined above
• a resume that includes your relevant skills and certifications

In the body of your email, please clearly indicate you are applying for the Marine Warden position. Application deadline is February 28, 2021.

Successful applicants will be contacted, and asked to provide contact details for two references. Thank you for your interest!

Please indicate you saw this posting at GoodWork.ca.