Volunteer Scuba Diver

Summary:

This position provides an opportunity for certified SCUBA divers with requisite experience to participate in scientific diving and other duties related to the Alaska SeaLife Center Dive Team. ASLC is an Organizational Member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS). Due to the nature of the position, there is significant oversight and requirements for volunteers in accordance with the Alaska SeaLife Center Standards for Diving Safety Manual, including, but not limited to medical evaluations, annual training & certification, and skills evaluations, and fitness.

Education/Training Requirements:

Advanced Open Water SCUBA certification with nationally recognized SCUBA certification agency or equivalent

Dry Suit Certification with nationally recognized SCUBA certification agency or equivalent

Rescue Diver Certification with nationally recognized SCUBA certification agency or equivalent (Preferred)

AAUS Scientific Diver Certification (Preferred

Must have current certification in CPR, First Aid, and O2 Administration. Bi-annual training through DAN DFA PRO provided.

Must be at least 18 years of age.

Must attend and complete requisite qualifications and documentation prior to joining the Dive Team, including all requirements of the approved-ASLC Standards for Diving Safety Manual.

Must be able to understand and follow written, oral instruction, and non-verbal (underwater) instruction; must have effective communication skills

Must be capable of demonstrating excellent SCUBA diving skills, buoyancy, trim, dexterity and agility to maneuver around the exhibits.

Must be able to safely perform and endure physically challenging work in a variety of weather conditions.

Must pass the AAUS dive physical. The parameters of this physical are dictated by the ASLC Standards for Diving Safety Manual. The cost of the physical to be paid for by the volunteer.

Must be able to pass an annual swim and scuba skills evaluation as described in the ASLC Standards for Diving Safety Manual and demonstrate excellent fitness for diving.

Must agree to follow the procedures and guidelines of the ASLC Standards For Diving Safety Manual.

Must promptly log all dives with ASLC.

Must supply all personal dive equipment including a mask, and appropriate insulation to wear under a dry suit.

Dry suit, hood, boots and gloves, buoyancy compensator device, regulators, air cylinder, weights and weight belt, and fins can be provided by ASLC. However, ASLC gear is of limited availability for volunteer use and may require a fee for use and is subject to the discretion of the DSO.

If the Volunteer is providing their own equipment required maintenance is as follows:

Provide written documentation of equipment servicing from a qualified technician including at minimum:

o yearly regulator servicing

o yearly gauge or computer testing

o yearly BCD and dry suit valve inspection/servicing

Essential Duties:

1. Perform a minimum of 12 scientific dives, scientific training dives, scientific skills proficiency dives in a 12-month period to remain active.

2. Assist in routine cleaning and organization of the dive locker and equipment immediately following the dive.

3. Commit to training and capacity building as a diver and dive tender through online and in-person training.

4. Dive in a buddy team with minimal supervision and handle objects, tools, and controls, while wearing up to 70lbs. of scuba gear.

5. Maintain a valid driver’s license and stay current on required certifications and trainings.

6. Arrive promptly and on-time to dive locker before scheduled dive; provide significant prenotice if unable to attend scheduled dive.

7. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good will, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.

8. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.

9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Skills and Abilities:

Skill in written and verbal communication, experience giving public presentations and/or working with various age groups in an educational setting, ability to understand and interpret research in progress and marine science topics, follow instructions, and work independently. Experience with dive logging software and email.

Ability to perform underwater tasks with control and protect sensitive aquarium environments.

Ability to manage multiple tasks underwater under pressure.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to

successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made

to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Unpaid Volunteer Position

Please submit a resume, letter of recommendation, and a cover letter, including qualifications and availability.

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