Operational Manager

The Operational Manager (OM) will oversee the overall operation of the Institute for Socio- Ecological Research’s (ISER Caribe’s) Center for Research and Restoration of Marine Organism (CIROM in Spanish) facility in La Parguera, Puerto Rico. The OM will manage the daily operations of CIROM La Parguera to ensure that all goals and deliverables are being met, and CIROM is running smoothly and efficiently. This will include managing all staff, setting discreate goals and deliverables, and ensuring aquaculture systems and programs are running smoothly. The OM will work closely with the Executive Director, Project Manager, Herbivore, Coral and Life Support Managers and Staff Biologists to ensure CIROM is running smoothly, and all goals and deliverables are met.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE

• Oversee all operations at CIROM La Parguera, this includes the herbivore, algae, and coral cultivation programs, and the life support systems

• Set intermediate and long-term goals to accomplish project deliverables

• Organize all daily operations, this includes scheduling staff, and organizing staff and

  priorities to ensure project deliverables are being met

• Develop and implement maintenance protocols, schedules, and procedures for all

  programs

• Perform regular inspections, testing, and troubleshooting of equipment and supplies at

  CIROM La Parguera

• Coordinate with established external partners, including scheduling meetings and

  assisting with travel for external partners

• Act as a liaison to the University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez and Department of Marine

  Science

• Coordinate with program managers for repairs, upgrades, and equipment installations

• Manage procurement and purchasing, including requesting quotes and ensuring internal

  and external protocols are being implemented

• Monitor and maintain the cleanliness and integrity of all nurseries, including the larval

  rearing systems and microalgal cultivation

• Provide training and guidance to program managers and staff on all programs and

  systems

• Ensure all data is being properly recorded and are in compliance with internal and

  external good data practices

• Ensure all operation follow safe practices and are in compliance with internal and

  external protocols

• Manage health and safety compliance at CIROM La Parguera

• Manage emergency plans and operations at CIROM La Parguera

• Assist in developing and managing the budget

• Ensure all inventory is maintained and programs have supplies and resourced needed to

  succeed

• Assist with creating and maintaining collaborations with external partners

• Assist with fundraising and grants

We are seeking a highly organized and motivated individual who can maintain a positive, enthusiastic attitude to join our team. Key competencies include managerial and intrapersonal skills, and a basic understanding of aquaculture and marine science and/or conservation. The successful candidate must be able to work flexible hours and participate in an on-call and evening and weekend schedule. This position includes working outside in wet/humid and hot environments during all seasons and environmental conditions. Some travel throughout Puerto Rico and heavy lifting (over 50 lbs) will also be required.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's or master’s degree in biological sciences or a related

field, basic aquaculture experience, managerial experience, and the ability to work independently.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, marine science, or environmental science

• Proven experience managing teams

• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills

• Strong organizational and time management abilities

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively

  with a diverse team

• Ability to effectively follow and give directions

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities

• Willing to work weekends and odd hours

• Willing to be outdoors, work in inclement weather and rough terrain

• Be physically able to push, pull, and lift to 50 pounds

• Valid driver’s license and reliable means of transportation

ADDITIONAL PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A relevant certification (e.g., Certified Aquatic Facility Operator)

• Knowledge of the biology, physiology and aquaculture of corals, sea urchins, and crabs

• Knowledge of aquaculture life support systems

• At least 6 months of experience working with land-based nurseries or closed systems

• At least 6 month of experience managing teams

• Excellent written and verbal communication in English and Spanish

• Knowledge of applicable environmental regulations and standards

• Knowledge of Caribbean coral reef ecology and/or biology