Marine Biologist / Ecologist - Coral Reef Restoration & Marine Debris Removal
$83,200–$97,760 year
On-siteHomestead, Florida, United States
Job Summary
Lead scientific diving operations in coral reef and reef-adjacent habitats to conduct marine debris removal, coral outplanting, disease intervention, and invasive species management. Develop dive and vessel operations plans, coordinate non-diving debris removal across beach, seagrass, and mangrove habitats, and schedule volunteer cleanup events. Conduct benthic surveys, coral assessments, and fish community surveys using GIS-enabled mobile tools to collect data on habitats and marine life. Prepare technical reports, produce GIS products and maps, and maintain accurate field and vessel logs. Operate small vessels up to 30 feet in coastal waters and coordinate directly with the National Park Service Contracting Officer's Representative. Support park operations during severe weather and emergency events, including securing vessels and research assets.
Required Qualifications
- Master's degree in marine biology or a closely related biological science field
- Scientific diving certification consistent with American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) standards, with a minimum of 100 logged scientific dives
- Professional experience conducting marine debris removal in sensitive habitats, including coral reefs and reef-adjacent environments such as mangroves, seagrass, and beaches
- Professional experience in coral reef and seagrass ecology, restoration, and monitoring
- Professional experience preparing ecological reports, including scientific analysis and geospatial mapping
- Professional experience safely operating small vessels in coastal environments
- Current CPR, First Aid, Oxygen Administration, and Nitrox certifications
- Valid driver's license
- Ability to pass a National Park Service background investigation and obtain a Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card
- Ability to obtain DOI Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) qualification before operating Government vessels
Desired Qualifications
- Experience working in marine protected areas, national parks, or national marine sanctuaries
- Prior experience under NPS Diving Management Program standards or a comparable scientific diving program
- Coral restoration or coral disease intervention experience in the Florida Reef Tract or wider Caribbean
- AAUS Diving Safety Officer or Lead Diver experience
- Advanced GIS proficiency (ArcGIS Pro, Field Maps, Survey123) and data management experience
- Experience leading volunteers or public engagement events
- Peer-reviewed publications or agency technical reports
- USCG credential; small boat towing, trailering, or outboard maintenance experience
- Spanish or Haitian Creole language skills
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