Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fisher Assistant

🎯 Role Definition

As a Fisher Assistant, you are the backbone of our at-sea operations, whether for commercial harvest or critical scientific research. This dynamic role requires a unique blend of physical endurance, technical skill, and meticulous attention to detail. You will work as an integral part of a close-knit crew, operating and maintaining fishing gear, handling catch, and collecting high-quality biological data in challenging marine environments. This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in a hands-on setting, are passionate about marine ecosystems, and are eager to contribute directly to the sustainable management of our aquatic resources.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Recent Graduate (Biology/Marine Science)
Experienced Deckhand or Commercial Fisher
Outdoor/Environmental Field Technician

Advancement To:

Lead Fisheries Technician or Senior Field Biologist
Commercial Fishing Vessel Captain or First Mate
Fisheries Biologist or Research Scientist

Lateral Moves:

Onshore Fish Hatchery or Aquaculture Manager
Certified Fisheries Observer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Operate, deploy, retrieve, and maintain a wide variety of commercial or scientific fishing gear, including trawls, longlines, gillnets, seines, and pot/trap gear.
Perform sorting, identification, and enumeration of fish and invertebrate species with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.
Collect critical biological data from target and non-target species, including lengths, weights, sex determination, and the extraction of biological samples like scales, otoliths, and tissues for later analysis.
Execute at-sea and dockside sampling protocols to gather comprehensive data on catch composition, fishing effort, and biological characteristics of harvested populations.
Ensure all catch is handled, processed, and stored according to strict quality and safety standards, including heading, gutting, and properly icing fish to maintain freshness.
Assist the vessel captain with navigation, watch-standing, and general vessel operations, adhering to all maritime rules and safety procedures.
Conduct routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs on deck equipment, hydraulic systems, and fishing gear to ensure operational readiness and safety.
Work long, irregular hours, often in adverse weather and challenging sea conditions, while maintaining a high level of performance and a positive attitude.
Meticulously record all field data on waterproof datasheets or using electronic data-logging devices, ensuring all entries are legible, accurate, and complete.
Participate actively in all vessel safety drills, including fire, man-overboard, and abandon ship procedures, and maintain a constant awareness of potential hazards.
Assist senior scientific staff with the setup, execution, and breakdown of field-based experiments and specialized sampling projects.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the vessel's deck, processing areas, and living quarters to promote a safe and efficient work environment.
Handle live fish and other marine organisms with care to minimize stress and mortality, particularly during tagging studies or non-lethal sampling events.

Secondary Functions

Enter, proofread, and manage field data in digital databases such as Microsoft Excel, Access, or custom software, performing quality assurance checks to guarantee data integrity.
Assist with the pre-trip mobilization and post-trip demobilization of the vessel, including loading scientific gear, fishing supplies, and provisions.
Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot scientific field equipment, including electronic measuring boards, scales, and environmental sensors.
Prepare and organize sampling kits, label sample containers, and manage the inventory of all scientific and fishing supplies.
Communicate effectively and professionally with the vessel captain, fellow crew members, and scientific personnel to ensure seamless operational coordination.
Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis.
Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap.
Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Seamanship & Vessel Operation: Proficiency in basic seamanship, including knot tying, line handling, and experience operating small boats.
Fish Species Identification: Strong ability to identify common marine fish and invertebrate species specific to the operational region.
Fishing Gear Knowledge: Hands-on experience with the operation and maintenance of various types of fishing gear (e.g., trawls, longlines, pots).
Data Collection & Management: Proven ability to accurately collect and record detailed scientific data, with proficiency in Microsoft Excel or other data entry software.
Mechanical Aptitude: Basic knowledge of marine engines, hydraulics, and electronics for performing minor repairs and troubleshooting.
Navigation & Electronics: Familiarity with marine electronics such as GPS, depth sounders, and VHF radios.
Safety Certifications: Valid marine first aid/CPR certification; STCW or other marine safety training is a significant asset.

Soft Skills

Physical Fitness & Endurance: Ability to consistently lift and move heavy objects (50+ lbs) and perform strenuous physical tasks for extended periods.
Resilience & Adaptability: Capacity to work long, irregular hours in demanding and unpredictable weather conditions while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.
Teamwork & Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to live and work cooperatively with a small team in close quarters.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous and detail-oriented approach to tasks, especially concerning data collection and safety procedures.
Strong Work Ethic: A self-motivated, reliable, and hardworking individual who can work effectively with minimal supervision.
Problem-Solving: Resourceful and able to think critically to solve practical problems that arise at sea.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field of study.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Marine Biology
Fisheries Science
Environmental Science
Oceanography

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-3 years of experience in a related field.

Preferred:

Prior experience working on commercial or research vessels.
Demonstrable experience in rugged, outdoor field work that requires physical and mental resilience.
A documented passion for fishing, boating, or the marine environment.