MRAG are currently recruiting Scientific fisheries observers to work on krill trawling vessels in the Southern Ocean. Initial deployments will be on vessels operating around South Georgia, in the South Atlantic, from approximately mid-May to September (exact dates are dependent on vessel schedules) and deployments are typically up to two months.

The Antarctic krill fishery is managed and regulated by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) and within South Georgia further management measures are applied by the Government of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI). As an observer you will provide a vital role in collecting data to contribute towards the sustainable management of the fishery, by providing independent reports from commercial fishing vessels.

Duties include:

  • reporting on general vessel operations;
  • collection of biometric data on target species;
  • collection of biometric data on bycatch;
  • collection of data on marine mammal and seabird observations including any interactions with the vessels;
  • reporting on marine debris and general vessel waste management procedures; and
  • other ad-hoc tasking associated with additional programmes.

Due to the requirements of the programme, only British passport holders can be considered at this time.

A training session for krill observers will be held prior to the start of the season. This is currently scheduled for early April.

Qualifications

Candidates should have a background in marine biology or fisheries and with relevant experience, specifically:

  • Degree in marine biology or other relevant discipline, or equivalent relevant work experience;
  • previous at sea experience (>30 days) such as a fisheries observer, a fisheries officer, participation in research cruises or surveys is desirable;

Prior to deployment, the following certificates must be obtained:

  • An in date Personal Survival Techniques or Basic Sea Survival certificate recognised by the International Convention on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95), or a national equivalent, awarded by an accredited organisation;
  • An in date ENG-1 or equivalent seafarer’s Medical certificate, awarded by an accredited physician;
  • Possession of a Seaman’s Book is preferable. However, MRAG may be able to support applications for a Seaman’s Book for candidates who lack one.

More information on national STCW providers can be found here https://www.stcwdirect.com/

RYA sea survival courses are also recognised: Sea Survival | Specialist Short Courses | Courses | Courses & Training | RYA - Royal Yachting Association

Prior to deployment, the following immunisations must be obtained or in date:

  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTP or Revaxis Polio)
  • Meningitis ACWY
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
  • Tuberculosis
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • COVID-19 vaccination

Please note that these are required for international travel and entry into specific countries ports upon embarkation and disembarkation.

Still Interested in this post? Here is how you can get involved:

Complete The MRAG Observer Recruitment Online Form

Applicants accepted for training will need to provide copies of relevant qualifications upon request. Copies of your Sea Survival and Medical certificates must be provided before deployment

All applications should be submitted electronically. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

For any enquiries please email observer_reg@mrag.co.uk