Job Announcement

Administrative/Program Assistant

Organization: Oregon Kelp Alliance (ORKA)

Project Focus: Oregon Restorative Kelp Mariculture Project

Location: Port Orford, Oregon and nearby ocean waters

About the Organization

The Oregon Kelp Alliance is a collaborative initiative dedicated to the conservation and restoration of Oregon’s vital kelp forest ecosystems. We work with scientists, researchers, stakeholders, and communities to understand the threats to our kelp forests and to develop and implement effective strategies to ensure their long-term health.

About the Oregon Restorative Kelp Mariculture Project

The Oregon Restorative Kelp Mariculture Project is a partnership between commercial fishermen and marine scientists to pilot the responsible cultivation of bull kelp (Nereocystis luetkeana) in the nearshore waters around Port Orford, Oregon as a commercially viable fisheries diversification opportunity. We will apply collaborative science and technology to the development of best practices in open ocean restorative mariculture of bull kelp in an area experiencing a decline in bull kelp forests. 

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Administrative/Program Assistant to provide essential support to our dynamic team. This is a full time position with opportunities for long term employment. The ideal candidate will be passionate about ocean conservation and fisheries diversification, and possess a combination of administrative, logistical, and field support skills.

Responsibilities

  • Fiscal Support: Assist with invoicing, tracking expenditures, and managing contracts.
  • Scheduling: Coordinate meetings, travel arrangements, and internal/external calendars.
  • Communications: Prepare reports, maintain records, and support clear communication channels within the organization.
  • Social Media Support: Contribute to the organization’s social media presence.
  • Project Coordination: Provide logistical and administrative support for ongoing research and conservation projects, with a focus on the Oregon Restorative Kelp Mariculture Project .
  • Grant Writing: Assist in researching and writing grant proposals.
  • Field Support: Participate in field activities as needed, including data collection, deployment of kelp moorings and instruments, and kelp forest surveys.
  • Other Duties: Perform other administrative and logistical tasks as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) or equivalent word processing, spreadsheet, and email software.
  • Experience using web-based interfaces.
  • Ability to lift and move up to 40 lbs.
  • Valid Oregon driver’s license.
  • Willing to live and work in Port Orford to support field work on Restorative Kelp Mariculture Project.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience at sea
  • SCUBA certification.
  • Experience operating small vessels.
  • Commercial fishing license.

How to Apply

Use the form below, or send a cover letter outlining your interest in marine conservation, mariculture, and relevant experience, along with your resume to tom.calvanese@oregonstate.edu. The subject line should read: “ORKA Administrative/Program Assistant Application – [Your Name]”.

Hours/Compensation

The position is full time (40 hours/week) 

Starting at $20/hour, with opportunity for advancement, based on experience and available funding.

The Oregon Kelp Alliance is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment for all.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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Max. file size: 512 MB.