167908 - Shellfish Technician - Department of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture - Permanent

The Department of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture is committed to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility. Our goal is to build a public sector workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve and to promote welcoming, diverse, inclusive, respectful workplaces that are accessible to all. We welcome all interested individuals including Indigenous People, persons with disabilities, Black, racialized, ethnic and culturally diverse groups, as well as people regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identities, and gender expressions. Those looking for more information are invited to visit our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy.

The purpose of this position is to assist in the delivery of programs and services related to the development of the shellfish aquaculture and fishing industries in Prince Edward Island. The focus of this role will be to provide technical support to the shellfish monitoring programs, which are designed to provide key information to the shellfish industry to increase productivity and production on shellfish leases and public shellfish resources (commercial fishery). In addition, this position will provide technical support related to priority initiatives to support the shellfish industry (e.g., research and development and assisting with assessment of marine access sites). In addition, this position is responsible for ongoing maintenance/operation of the Fisheries Warehouse facility and assistance with maintaining field equipment used in the shellfish monitoring programs.

**Duties include**:

- Provide technical support to the shellfish monitoring programs;
- Collect shellfish and water samples and data at designated locations in shellfish producing areas;
- Provide assessment of marine access sites to inform the Division on any maintenance requirements;
- Conduct dory counts to document commercial fishing activity in the spring and fall oyster fishery;
- Check and maintain the status of the shellfish monitoring program equipment to ensure proper working condition for the collection, preservation, and analysis of shellfish and water samples;
- Maintain sampling equipment through daily or weekly cleaning, disinfecting, or replacement of equipment if required;
- Maintain mechanical equipment including boats, trucks, trailers, and outboard motors per protocol;
- Maintain accurate records, input all data and information electronically, and assist in the preparation of technical reports;
- Assist with ensuring all safety compliance measures are taken to maintain an effective and efficient working environment;
- Assist with ensuring minor repairs in relation to the facility are completed and management is notified when required; and
- Other duties as required.

**Minimum Qualifications**:

- Bachelor of Science or related degree with major course work in Biology (or equivalent) with considerable experience in aquaculture/fisheries extension services; or completion of technical diploma (2 years, Aquaculture preferred) with extensive experience in aquaculture/fisheries extension services;
- Demonstrated equivalency will be considered;
- Ability to conduct work in the marine environment, which requires the operation and care of boats, lifting devices, sampling equipment, and following proper field and safety procedures;
- Knowledge of computers and software programs (i.e., Microsoft Office);
- Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential;
- Self-motivated to meet timelines and goals with mínimal supervision;
- Ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of a team;
- Must be able to lift 50lbs; and
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.

**Other Qualifications**:

- Knowledge of the PEI aquaculture and commercial shellfish industry is an asset;
- Marine safety training (i.e. Domestic Vessel Safety) is an asset;
- Pleasure Craft Operators Certificate and/or Small Vessel Operator Proficiency is an asset; and
- S.C.U.B.A certification an asset.

**This competition may be used to fill future job vacancies.**

**IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE APPLICANT TO CONFIRM RECEIPT OF THE APPLICATION, BY TELEPHONE OR IN PERSON PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE.**

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