Marine Debris & Plastics Program Research and Outreach Assistant

Category: 12-month part-time position, with possibility of renewal, January – December 2022

The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) Marine Debris & Plastics Program is offering a unique opportunity to join a small but dynamic team as we expand our investigation of shoreline and ocean plastic debris.

The Research Assistant (RA) will work 28-32 hrs/wk coordinating with team members and project partners to assist with shoreline and at-sea debris cleanups; collate, enter and analyze debris data; draft media, reporting and outreach materials; and plan and assist with public outreach events.

This new position, supported with funds from the NOAA Marine Debris Program, will allow CCS to work with regional partners to expand shoreline cleanups beyond Cape Cod and collect data on debris presence and type. Areas of focus will include the Massachusetts south shore, Boston Harbor and the northern Bay of Fundy. The position is designed to integrate with regional partner organizations and other relevant CCS programs (e.g. fisheries, geology, seals, education, rescue) for field work, data collection and outreach.

This position reports to the CCS Marine Debris & Plastics Program Coordinator in Provincetown and will work closely with regional partners including Urban Harbors Institute (Boston). The RA will interface with team members and the general public virtually and in person, and will have the opportunity to work with research and laboratory scientists, commercial and recreational fishermen, fisheries managers and marine debris artists. Remote office work will be possible/likely, and field work and outreach will require travel throughout the Cape Cod region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist program coordinator in organizing shoreline cleanups and conducting seasonal field work
• Maintain and further develop marine debris database and on-line data reporting mechanisms
• Attend debris cleanups, collect and inventory marine debris, tally and enter data
• Arrange volunteers for monthly marine debris monitoring and assessment at two area beaches
• Generate social media or blog posts to amplify program outreach and education
• Collaborate with regional partners to expand scope of cleanups and data collection
• Conduct outreach and engagement with fishing industry, harbormasters, and other local groups
• Distribute ‘Inshore Fishery Debris Prevention Strategies’ to regional commercial fishermen

Key Job Requirements:

• Familiarity with and interest in issue of marine plastic debris including derelict fishing gear
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, database management and ArcGIS software
• Comfort with using social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, web logs
• Ability to demonstrate both teamwork and an individual approach to activities
• Attention to detail in written and oral communication
• Ability to be self-directed with minimal guidance

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:  Field work will require working out-of-doors in all seasons and will primarily be land-based though some vessel time may be involved. Must be comfortable carrying or dragging loads of 50-100 pounds; and be able to safely handle debris removed from shoreline or ocean floor including fishing gear. Data input and analysis and some outreach may require a mix of on-site debris inventory and off-site office work. Occasional weekend hours will be required. Number of hours worked each week will be project-dependent and mutually agreed to by RA and program coordinator, not to exceed 32 hours/wk.

The Center for Coastal Studies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Diversity of opinions, experiences and backgrounds is a key asset.

Ample opportunities exist for program and position expansion, as well as integration with other CCS programs, depending on candidate’s skills and interests.

Position comes with a comprehensive benefits package and salary is commensurate with experience. Please submit cover letter and CV via email to: Laura Ludwig, Marine Debris & Plastics Program Coordinator, lludwig@coastalstudies.org; and Valerie Daniels, HR Manager, employment@coastalstudies.org. 

Review of applications will begin December 10th and will continue until the position is filled. Start-date is flexible within early 2022.