Department: Marine Mammal Institute
Marine Mammal Institute invites applications for an hourly or salaried part‑time (0.60FTE), 12‑month, fixed‑term Faculty Research Assistant position. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Department Head.
In the Marine Mammal Institute at Oregon State University based in Newport, Oregon, this position will support multiple aspects of research activities, field operations, and lab management.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate small boat (e.g., RHIB, Zodiac) around cetaceans for ecological data collection
- Perform routine maintenance tasks on research vessel, truck, and trailer, and coordinates specialized maintenance and repairs as needed
- Conduct marine mammal survey observations aboard US Coast Guard helicopters and mid-size and large research vessels
- Oversight of equipment (cameras, drones, sensors, etc.) maintenance, storage, organization
- Data management and sample storage/archiving
- Process and organize photo‑ID images
- Assist with data analysis (e.g., photo‑ID, drone imagery, environmental data)
- Data entry into database
- Lead and participate in lab outreach activities
- Lab management duties such as ordering supplies, shipping, meeting organization
- Support implementation of lab and field health and safety procedures
- Assist with permit and project reporting
- Reconciliation of expenditures
Required Qualifications
- A Bachelor's degree combined with 2+ years of research experience
- Experience as a marine mammal observer
- Significant experience as a small boat driver around cetaceans
- Experience in ecological data collection methods, such as one or more of the following: cetacean photo‑ID, behavioral observations, prey sampling, drone operations, suction‑cup tagging, biopsy, and passive and active acoustics
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Clear, honest communication skills
- Ability and willingness to work occasional long days in the field when the weather is right, which may include weekends and holidays
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment and maintain a constructive and positive research culture.
- Valid U.S. driver's license with the ability to tow small boats on trailers
- Boating safety certification, or ability to obtain certification shortly after hire. Oregon State University offers the Scientific Boating Safety Association (SBSA) Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC).
- Experience using R programming for data wrangling, organization, visualization, and statistical analysis
- This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver's license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self‑report convictions as per University Policy 05‑030.
Preferred Qualifications
- A Master's degree in the natural sciences
- Experience using Microsoft Access, ArcGIS, and/or Matlab
- Record of scientific publication as lead or co‑author
- Experience conducting photo‑ID analysis (matching) of cetaceans
- Demonstrated success of working on several concurrent projects and adapting to shifting priorities and deadlines
- Experience maintaining and/or contributing to long‑term ecological datasets
Working Conditions/Schedule
This position must be able to work regularly in outdoor environments, including on boats in marine environments. Incumbent must be able to lift heavy objects (>30lbs). Occasional travel and driving for remote fieldwork is expected. Incumbent must have ability and willingness to work occasional long days in the field when the weather is right, which may include weekends and holidays.
Salary Range
Starting salary will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.
Anticipated Start Date
2027-04-15
Anticipated End Date
2027-06-30
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including di
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Faculty Research Assistant: Marine Mammal Institute-GEMM Lab in Newport employer: Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center offers a supportive and inclusive work environment, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful employment. With competitive benefits such as health coverage, retirement plans, and tuition reduction, employees are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. The evening shifts provide flexibility, while the vibrant Newport location enhances the overall work experience with its stunning coastal views and community engagement.
