Sample Assistant Jobs in Gautier, MS (NOW HIRING)

This position is contingent upon contract award.

Entarian is seeking a Commercial Dockside Sampler to work within the Fisheries Statistics Division’s Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch of the NOAA NMFS Fisheries Statistics Division (FSD). The role involves gathering data directly from fishery participants through fisheries dependent activities and collaborating with state, commission, and federal partners across the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, southeastern Atlantic, and Caribbean regions.

The task includes the following:

Data Management Support:

• Collect lengths, weights, and biological samples (primarily, but not limited to, otoliths) from a subset of commercial fisheries catches, and recreational headboat catches when requested following collection and sampling protocols defined in the current Trip Interview Program (TIP) and Southeast Region Headboat Survey (SRHS) User’s Guides.
• Enter colelcted data into the Trip Interview Program System (TIPS) or SRHS web applications as applicable.

• Use custom data entry applications and standard database software to enter, view, and edit field data

• Run monthly audits of data using the QA/QC tool in TIPS.

Laboratory Support:

• Prepare biological samples using proper cleaning, packaging, and labeling procedures as detailed in the TIPS and SRHS User’s Guides and submit required paperwork documenting samples

Outreach and Education:

• Participate in SEFSC-sponsored or participating outreach events such as Open Houses, Youth/Career Fairs, etc. in order to explain port sampling goals and methods to the public.
• Assist staff with any sampling training sessions for new hires or TIP Partner agencies.
• Attend any training sessions or conferences deemed necessary to acquire updates to sampling protocols and technology.

The salary for this position is approximately $50,000 - 55,000/year.

Work will be based on-site at NOAA's Pascagoula, MS facility.

• MS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study or BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus three (3) years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of applying basic concepts, principles and methodologies of fish or related biological field sufficient to independently perform scientific tasks using standard methods and techniques.
• Proficient in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys;
• Computer literate and experienced with common word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs.
• Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident and be able to pass a background investigation to obtain a security badge to enter the applicable government facility.

• Experience collecting catch and effort information from commercial or recreational fishermen.

• Knowledge of collection of routine biological samples (lengths, age structures, gonads, etc.) from marine fish.

Compensation
We consider several factors when extending an offer of employment, including the location, scope, and associated responsibilities of the specific position, as well as a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Benefits
All full-time employees are eligible to participate in our flexible benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, Rx, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
• 11 Paid Federal Government Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Basic Life & Supplemental Life
• Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
• Skills Development & Certifications
• Professional Membership Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Competitive compensation plan
• Discretionary variable incentive bonuses based on factors such as individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance

Formed through the strategic union of Sev1Tech and ERT, Entarian is a premier provider of mission-critical engineering and technology solutions. Founded on a legacy of excellence dating back to 1993, Entarian is a product of an evolved and fully diversified engineering and federal technology leader. From deep space to defense and civilian missions, Entarian delivers secure, mission-aligned digital solutions that drive national resilience and operational effectiveness. We don't just support modernization; we define it.

Join the Mission and Start your Career Journey: Apply Directly via our Careers Portal  Connect, Referrals & Inquiries? Email the team: careers@entarian.com

Entarian is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.