Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) Specialist UMD Position

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION (UME)

Title: Agent Associate

Working Title: Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) Specialist
Position Number: 125312
Category Status: Faculty, Non-Tenured, Full-Time ContinuingContract
Unit: AGNR-UME-Sea Grant
Location: Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology at the UMBC Columbus Center in
Baltimore, MD


Purpose of the Position:
The University of Maryland Sea Grant College Extension Program is seeking an extension specialist for a multi-region project on the commercial production of Atlantic salmon using recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). The successful candidate will provide direct support for salmon RAS production in the Central, North Atlantic and Mid Atlantic Sea Grant regions (as well as work with the newly formed National Coordinated RAS Network (NCRN). Extensive travel will be required for extension and project oversight duties and conference/meeting attendance. This position will report directly to the Maryland Sea Grant Extension Leader and to the Lead Principal Investigator of the NCRN. The position will also have responsibilities coordinating efforts between lead institutions in three states (Maine, Maryland, and Wisconsin).

Responsibilities:

• Implement Atlantic salmon recirculating aquaculture extension activities, such as organization of stakeholder workshops and training sessions, site visits to production facilities, outreach/communication with industry stakeholders and the lay public, and workforce development activities under the advice and guidance of the NCRN;
• Assist in the coordination and integration of NCRN program objectives and facilitate multi-state integration of NCRN core activities;
• Coordinate NCRN efforts to impact current outreach, education, workforce training and extension efforts;
• Organize and facilitate an annual NCRN meeting and related conferences calls/meetings/workshops;
• Work with NCRN core personnel, including Sea Grant staff/specialists, participating researchers, and industry representatives to implement the project to meet project milestones and deliverables;
• Conduct quantitative and/or qualitative industry/stakeholder surveys, conduct data analysis and compile feedback/input/metrics related to NCRN activities and objectives;
• Generate written and web-based materials, summary documents/reports and other project deliverables in coordination with Sea Grant and/or NCRN project personnel;
• Maintain and update the project website;
• Other duties as assigned and relevant to the project.

Qualifications:
Required–

• Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Marine Sciences or related field.
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with recirculating aquaculture tank systems. Project management experience due to the significant level of leadership needed in this position.
• Must have the ability to work independently as well as with members of the project team. In addition, the selected candidate must have good time management, planning and writing skills.
• This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.

Preferred–

• Private or public sector finfish aquaculture experience, preferably in salmonid culture.
• Demonstrated knowledge of recirculating aquaculture tank system design, construction and/or market production.
• Project management/organization and outreach/extension skills.
• Strong communication skills and a working knowledge of web-based media platforms and project management software.

Physical Demands:

• Required to stand, walk and sit; talk or hear, both in person and by telephone; use hands to finger, handle and feel objects or controls; reach with hands and arms. Regularly required to stoop, kneel, bend, crouch and lift up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision and the ability to adjust focus.

APPLICATIONS:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu

A complete application packet includes a letter of application, a current (signed) resume or Curriculum Vitae, copies of transcripts (official transcripts will be required if offered the position), and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Closing Date: For best consideration apply by 11/4/2019 or until acceptable candidate is selected.