Boat Operators for Yakutat

Boat Operators for Yakutat Set Gillnet Fishery 2007/2008

Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program (AMMOP) which was established by the National Marine Fisheries (NMFS) selected Saltwater Inc. as their observer contractor to help implement a two-year study during the 2007 and 2008 fishing seasons. Our observers will monitor any potential interactions between the Yakutat Set Gillnet Fishery and marine mammals.

Saltwater needs experienced boat operators to transport our observers to the fishing sites. In many cases, an observer will collect data from the skiff/small boat. The nature of the study requires observers to work when fishing is occuring. This means that they will be required to be transported to the fishing sites at short notice and often work long hours. This is not a job for people who like a 9 to 5 routine!

The project will begin in June 2007 and could run until as late as October 2007, depending on the length of the fishing season. Successful applicants must attend a Saltwater/NMFS sponsored AMSEA Small Boat Handling Course, which will be conducted in May, prior to the start of the fishing season. This will ensure that all our Boat Handlers meet NOAA’s small boat program requirements.

It may be necessary for boat operators to spend time living in remote locations in field conditions. The people we hire need to have wilderness survival skills and be willing and able to live in confined quarters with observers. The ability to get along well with people is an essential qualification for this job.

Required qualifications:

• A minimum of three (3) years experience in commercial or research operation of small boats (less than 40 feet, NOAA Class A, I or II)

• First-hand knowledge of the Yakutat Set Gillnet Fishery and local waters (the application form requires that you list the rivers you have experience on)

• High school education or equivalent (include evidence with application form)

• Current CPR and First Aid Certification

• The physical ability to carry out the duties of a skiff operator

• Fitness to pass a physical within the 6 months prior to deployment

• Maturity, self-motivation and good judgment

• A flexible attitude

• A high tolerance for stress

• The ability to cope with chronic or debilitating seasickness

• A willingness to ride in small planes

• Basic outboard operation and maintenance

Preferred experience:

• Experience with USCG small boat safety operations

• Training and certification in wilderness preparedness • ATV operation

• Salmon set net/drift gillnet experience

• Bear safety training

• Hunter safety course and firearm permits

Interested applicants should fill out the skiff operator application form under the “How Do I Apply” section on our website. Questions should be directed to Kathy Robinson at:

Saltwater Inc.
733 N Street
Anchorage, AK 99501-3226

Phone: (907) 276-3241

E-mail: Kathy@saltwaterinc.com