Marine Wildlife Stranding Coordinator

Role Overview

Lynker Corporation provides science-based solutions in weather and climate services, and is expanding its team with a Marine Wildlife Stranding Coordinator in Hawaii. This position is a key part of the state’s marine wildlife emergency response and public outreach network.

The role combines hotline triage, field response, data handling, coordination with partners, equipment oversight, and community education focused on protected marine species.

Key Duties

• Answer, record, and evaluate marine wildlife incident reports received by phone, email, or partner agencies, including strandings, haul-outs, entanglements, injuries, and deaths.
• Coordinate and support field operations by securing scenes, setting safety boundaries, assisting with live animal extraction or deployment, providing animal care before veterinary arrival, and arranging transport of carcasses for necropsy.
• Carry out response work in line with the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
• Gather field notes, images, and biological samples, then enter complete records into NOAA systems such as Level A forms and monk seal databases.
• Help organize post-mortem examinations, sample handling, and carcass storage or disposal when needed.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and coordination activities with NOAA, the University of Hawaii, volunteers, and partner organizations.
• Monitor, maintain, and inventory response tools and supplies so the team is always ready for deployment.
• Support education and outreach efforts at booths, schools, and community events, sharing NOAA-approved materials and answering questions from the public, fishers, beachgoers, and tour operators.
• Set up temporary signs or barriers around Hawaiian monk seals during haul-outs to protect both the animals and the public.
• Prepare regular activity summaries, issue logs, and progress reports for NOAA, often on a monthly basis.
• Follow NOAA/NMFS policies, confidentiality rules, data security requirements, and response/reporting deadlines.
• Remain available for on-call work across the islands, including weekends, evenings, and other hours outside a standard office schedule.

Required Background

• High school diploma or an equivalent qualification.
• Hands-on fieldwork or field logistics experience in Hawaii, preferably in wildlife, marine, or natural resource settings.
• Previous data-entry experience and comfort using Microsoft Office and Google Workspace tools.
• Strong written and spoken communication skills for both technical documentation and public-facing interactions.
• Ability to collect, organize, and document detailed information accurately while working under pressure.
• Experience coordinating, organizing, or assisting volunteer teams.
• Background in wildlife management or environmental response, especially in Hawaii or comparable field settings.
• Experience in conservation education or public outreach.
• A valid driver’s license, along with willingness to complete Government Defensive Driving training if required.

Preferred Qualifications

• An associate degree or bachelor’s degree in biology, marine science, conservation, environmental science, or a related discipline.
• Prior involvement in stranding response, rescue, or necropsy work for marine mammals or sea turtles.
• Familiarity with federal natural resource programs and endangered species regulations, including ESA and MMPA.
• Experience in federal contract or grant settings, including financial tracking or administrative assistance.
• Comfort with on-call schedules, changing hours, and physically demanding field conditions in Hawai'i.
• Proven ability to protect confidential information and follow data security procedures.
• Knowledge of NMFS policies and programs, along with planning and federal financial management operations.

About Lynker

Lynker is an employee-owned small business focused on professional, scientific, and technical services. Its work spans hydrology and water science, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and business process improvement.

The company promotes a collaborative environment where skilled professionals are supported with the tools and flexibility needed to deliver effective, science-driven solutions.

Benefits

• No-cost medical coverage for employees.
• Health benefits that include medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Competitive compensation reviewed against market and location benchmarks.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Employee assistance program.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Life and accident insurance.
• Training and tuition assistance reimbursement each year.
• Spot bonuses for standout performance.
• Annual recognition awards with bonuses.
• Employee referral program.
• Self-directed learning management system.
• Individual career growth planning.

Additional Information

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and makes decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. Employment is not influenced by race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics under applicable law.

Fraud alert: There have been reports of scammers impersonating Lynker recruiters. Genuine opportunities are posted through the company’s official careers channel, and legitimate recruiter emails come from an official @lynker.com address.