The mission of NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) is to deliver ecosystem science
solutions for stewardship of the nation’s ocean and coastal resources in direct support of National Ocean Service
(NOS) priorities, offices, and customers to sustain thriving coastal communities and economies.
NCCOS conducts nationwide, multidisciplinary research that integrates a broad spectrum of physical, biological,
chemical, and social sciences to inform and guide resource and community managers, while seeking a balance
among resource use, economic development, restoration, conservation, and human health. By providing science
products and tools, NCCOS helps communities plan for, adapt to, and reduce risks from the multiple challenges
facing coastal communities. NCCOS’s mission has never been more important than it is today
NCCOS seeks to hire 2 time-limited employees to support NCCOS field and lab research and monitoring activities
at the Beaufort, NC (1) and Oxford, MD (1) facilities. Successful candidates will provide general project support to
NCCOS science staff to further the understanding of ecological linkages between coastal environmental
conditions, habitats, and species, and stressors such as climate variability.
Qualified candidates should be able to:
• Work in a team environment.
• Carry out limited professional assignments in a technical professional field under periodic technical
supervision on all phases of assignments, applying established methods, tests, procedures, and
techniques, and recording actions and results.
• Provide preliminary data analysis, statistical data analysis, and report synthesis for characterization and
monitoring research.
• Assists other scientific or research staff with priority scientific or research activities and responsibilities
including: planning for and assisting with fieldwork related to coastal monitoring; biological sampling and
surveys; and summarizing data
• Assist with field projects associated with assessing climate impacts, coastal resilience, habitat restoration,
and ecosystem services
• Assist in assessing the relationship between living coastal/marine resources and the physical and
chemical aspects of these ecosystems.
• Assist in general laboratory analyses using basic techniques
To be considered for employment, applicants should have:
• A background in coastal or marine biology with experience working in multiple ecosystem types
• Familiar with different field sampling, processing and laboratory techniques.
• Ability to work in harsh environments.
• Excellent scientific communication skills, and a strong, proven ability to collaborate effectively;
• Ability to effectively work collaboratively and independently on multiple projects simultaneously in a self-
directed environment;
• Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to effectively communicate with external partners;
• Strong problem solving and organizational skills, and attention to detail;
• Scuba certification preferred.
• Experience in small boat operation and trailer towing/maneuver/positioning preferred.
Application Information
We anticipate that one-two positions will be hired with a start in October 2022, though the start date is negotiable.
The position will be for an initial time-limited appointment of 14-months under Schedule A(r), and is potentially
renewable for up to 4 years. The duty station will be Beaufort, NC or Oxford, MD. Recent graduates will be hired
at the ZP-2 (GS- 9 equivalent) level. Applications be accepted until the position is filled. Applicants should
send a cover letter and resume to Tomma.Barnes@noaa.gov and John.Jacobs@noaa.gov.