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Science Think Tank Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree or higher in a natural science (e.g., Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, Ecology, or Environmental Science). * Extensive observer experience - typically 3+ years as a certified NOAA ...

... science data collection. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Maintain, repair, and track all observer sampling and safety gear used in the SEFOP, including electronic devices, scales, immersion suits, and emergency ...

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... science data collection. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Maintain, repair, and track all observer sampling and safety gear used in the SEFOP, including electronic devices, scales, immersion suits, and emergency ...

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Science Think Tank information

What is a science think tank?

A science think tank is an organization dedicated to researching and analyzing scientific topics and issues to inform policy, public understanding, and decision-making. These organizations typically bring together experts from various scientific and technical fields to conduct studies, publish reports, and provide recommendations on science-related matters. Science think tanks often work independently or in collaboration with governments, industry, and academia. Their work can influence policy development, funding priorities, and technological innovation. They aim to bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a science think tank, and why are they important?

To thrive at a science think tank, you need advanced scientific knowledge (often a master's or PhD), strong research skills, and expertise in data analysis. Familiarity with statistical software, scientific databases, and collaborative research tools is typically required. Critical thinking, clear communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for translating complex findings and working with diverse stakeholders. These abilities ensure rigorous analysis, impactful policy recommendations, and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

How does a science think tank professional typically collaborate with stakeholders outside the organization?

Science think tank professionals frequently engage with external stakeholders such as policymakers, academic researchers, industry experts, and community organizations. This collaboration often involves organizing workshops, presenting research findings, and participating in advisory panels to ensure that evidence-based recommendations are both practical and impactful. Effective communication and relationship-building skills are crucial, as these interactions can influence policy decisions and help translate scientific insights into real-world solutions. Regular cross-sector collaboration also provides opportunities for professional growth and expanding one's network.

What is the difference between Science Think Tank vs Research Scientist?

AspectScience Think TankResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically advanced degrees in science or policy, sometimes with specialized certificationsUsually holds a PhD or master's in a scientific field
Work EnvironmentPolicy institutes, government agencies, or non-profit organizationsLaboratories, universities, or research institutions
Employer & IndustryPolicy-focused organizations, think tanks, governmentAcademic, industrial, or government research labs
Primary FocusAnalyzing scientific data to inform policy and societal issuesConducting experiments and generating new scientific knowledge

The main difference is that Science Think Tanks focus on applying scientific insights to policy and societal challenges, often involving analysis and advocacy, while Research Scientists primarily conduct experiments and generate new scientific knowledge within labs or academic settings.

What are popular job titles related to Science Think Tank jobs in Florida? For Science Think Tank jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Science Think Tank jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Science Think Tank jobs in Florida are:
Infographic showing various Science Think Tank job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Survey Watch Stander / Video Annotator - Level I (Mesophotic Deep Benthic Communities Survey)

Survey Watch Stander / Video Annotator - Level I (Mesophotic Deep Benthic Communities Survey)

Think Tank, Inc.

Panama City Beach, FL โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

*US Citizenship Required
*Position is Subject to Contract Award
Position Overview
SEFSC-PEMD personnel are critical collaborators in restoration work in response to the 2010 DWH oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This aspect of the project involves surveying mesophotic and deep benthic reef communities (50 - 1800 m in depth). The survey utilizes a variety of survey platforms (e.g. ROV, AUV) to detect, classify and enumerate assemblages of corals, sponges, octocorals, crustaceans, mollusks, fishes and other fauna. Tasks should include: Survey Watch Stander for Mesophotic Deep Benthic Communities (MDBC) surveys conducted on NOAA Ships and Small Research Vessels and participate on other PEMD resource surveys, as requested.
Position Title
Survey Watch Stander and Video Annotation (Level I)
Labor Category
Technical Support Services - Level I
Location
Panama City, FL
Start Date
TBD - Upon Award
Schedule
Full-Time, 40 hrs/week (extended hours during surveys)
Security
Low Risk - Public Trust Background Investigation Required
Travel
Domestic and international travel may be required for at-sea surveys, project-related workshops, and working group meetings; authorized by COR
Key Responsibilities
a) Survey Duties
Tasks shall include but is not limited to:
  • Knowledgeable in data collection MDBC SOPs, and execution of at-sea mapping and ground truthing missions as Field Party Chief or Watch Leader.
  • Pre- and post-survey inventory and maintenance of equipment and gear.
  • Conducting data collection, biological and/or environmental sampling and logging and processing data and/or samples under field conditions, as required and according to prescribed MDBC SOP.
  • Complete incident reporting procedures as necessary in accordance with applicable NOAA Small Boat Program requirements (small boat operations only)

b) Laboratory Duties
Video Annotation roles require subject matter expertise on biota associated with Mesophotic/Deep Reefs of the Gulf of America. Primary duties focus on video annotation to derive habitat and fish detection and enumeration. Collected video data is annotated using a semi-automated multi-stage process including 1) automated processing using C-Vision tools, 2) human-in-the-loop review and correction, 3) data review and QA/QC, 4) data output/ingest into GCRF Oracle databases, 4) updating GitHUB data for updates and project management.
  • Subject matter expert for identifying marine fishes in all life stages from mesophotic and deep reef habitats of the Gulf of America.
  • Video annotation, review, and data QA/QC of ROV-based footage.
  • Management of review and tracking sheets.
  • Updating project management tools for status updates.
  • Updating annotation tracking sheets.

c) Data Management Support
Video Annotation duties involve basic duties including data entry, QA/QC, and validation. In the near future these will also include determining and setting standards for automated data outputs to ensure interoperability and democratization of datasets.
  • Utilize inventory of existing bathymetric information in U.S. EEZ of Gulf of Mexico between 50 and 1800 m into MDBC database. Task to be coordinated with NCEI and NCCOS-Biogeography Branch.
  • Inputs and corrects data in MDBC database, associated data entry applications and MDBC survey SOP (including metadata).
  • Input updates into video annotation projects management tools.

d) Analytical Support
Video Annotation roles include basic duties of data preparation and validation prior to analysis, assisting in drafting reports and manuscripts, and review.
  • Maintain knowledge of relevant scientific literature, provide support for data analyses and develop data summaries.
  • Maintain updates in analysis projects using project management tool.
  • Develop basic data reports, and presentations. Assist in preparing graphs and visuals from survey outcomes.

e) Outreach and Education
Participate in public outreach and education efforts. Examples of outreach and education activities include marine science education at local schools, participating as judges for local science fairs, conducting and participating in outreach and education tours of the SEFSC facilities and NOAA ships (in conjunction with federal employees), manning of outreach booths at local fairs and festivals.
Minimum Qualifications (Required)
  • MS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study or BS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study plus 1 (1) years of relevant experience.
  • Computer literate and experienced with common word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs. Capable of writing reports at the college level and making oral presentations.
  • Experience as data collector on at sea surveys. Knowledge and skills in using software that handles data streams for hydrological, and biological data.
  • Proficient in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys. Knowledge and identification of reef taxa from the Gulf of America.
  • Expert knowledge of major structure forming invertebrates found in mesophotic and deep benthic communities of the Gulf of America.
  • Knowledge of procedures when encountering endangered or threatened species.
  • Sea going contractors who participate on research cruises on Office of Marine and Aviation Operations' NOAA ships will be required to annually/biennially (age dependent) submit a NOAA Health Services Questionnaire (NOAA Form 57- 10-01) and Tuberculosis Screening Form (NOAA Form NF 57-10-02) to OMAO health services to determine fitness for sea duty. Sea going contractors must have a current tetanus vaccine (once every 10 years).

Required Training
Training Requirement
Due Date
NOAA IT security (required for all contractors)
Certificates due within 3 business days of contract/task order start
NOAA Safety training (required for all contractors working at a Government facility)
Certificates due within 3 business days of contract/task order start
Records Management 101 (required for all contractors)
Certificates due within 3 business days of contract/task order start
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Active Threats to the Workplace Awareness Seminar
Certificates due within 3 business days of contract/task order start
Sexual Assault/Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response Training IAW NAM 1330-52.222-70(b)(6)
Certificates due no later than 5 business days after contract/task order start