Program Manager - Gear Monitoring Team

Program Manager For Gear Monitoring TeamA.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulation and collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is seeking a Program Manager for the Gear Monitoring Team to provide program-level oversight of gear monitoring operations, including coordination of training, stakeholder engagement, regulatory compliance verification, and data management.Primary Function:Serve as Program Manager for the Gear Monitoring Team, responsible for planning, coordination, execution, and reporting of all program activities.

The role integrates technical expertise in fishing gear with leadership responsibility for planning, executing, and reporting Gear Monitoring Team activities.Duties/Responsibilities:Lead construction, maintenance, and deployment of selective fishing gear (TEDs and BRDs) for research, training, and compliance activitiesProvide technical expertise and oversight for fisheries research projects evaluating modified gear for bycatch reductionOperate and maintain Mississippi Laboratory research vessels (Class A, I, II), including trailering and transport of vessels and equipmentObtain and maintain required certifications, including USCG licenses and NOAA Small Boat Program compliancePlan, coordinate, and conduct outreach and training sessions for commercial fishers across Gulf of Mexico statesEngage with fishing associations, industry stakeholders, and state agencies to support effective training delivery and regulatory complianceCoordinate and conduct training for federal and state marine law enforcement personnel on proper inspection of federally regulated fishing gearOversee and participate in at-sea and dockside inspections of fishing gear, documenting compliance with federal regulationsManage data collected during compliance inspections and generate comprehensive monthly and biannual reportsDevelop and deliver technical presentations, training materials, and outreach content for diverse audiencesProvide hands-on demonstrations of gear construction and proper use to commercial fishers and enforcement personnelRepresent the program at industry and government meetings, presenting findings on TED technology, compliance trends, and outreach outcomesCoordinate and support emergency response efforts (e.g., oil spills) requiring rapid deployment for sea turtle protection and targeted outreachSupport general unit operations including equipment maintenance, warehouse oversight, and operational readinessCompensation: Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated, and total compensation will vary depending on candidates' depth of experience. This is a full–time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.Minimum Qualifications:Minimum 5 years of experience in commercial fishing operations, net shop work, or related fisheries fieldMinimum 5 years of experience managing fisheries-related projects or programsDemonstrated experience in net construction and repairExperience operating and maintaining small vessels and associated marine equipmentProficiency with word processing and database management toolsDemonstrated experience writing technical reports and delivering oral presentationsValid driver's licensePhysical ability to safely perform vessel-based operationsStrong leadership and program management capability in field-based environmentsAdvanced stakeholder engagement and communication skills across industry and regulatory audiencesAbility to manage multiple concurrent operational priorities and field deploymentsStrong technical understanding of fishing gear systems and regulatory frameworksAbility to obtain within one year:U.S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels License (6-Pack)Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)Ability to obtain within two years:U.S. Coast Guard 100-ton Master LicenseAbility to obtain and maintain:HAZWOPER 40-hour certificationCPR and Basic First Aid certificationAbility to meet NOAA Small Boat Program training and certification requirementsPreferred Qualifications:Knowledge of selective fishing gear technologies and bycatch reduction strategiesExperience conducting public outreach and large-scale training programsAbility to read, write, or speak VietnameseTravel:Travel Estimated: 40–50% (Frequent regional travel across Gulf of Mexico states, including field deployments, outreach events, and emergency response support).Location:3209 Frederic St, Pascagoula, MS, 39567 - Southeast Fisheries Science Center's Pascagoula LaboratoryAn Equal Opportunity Employer