Overview

Azura is seeking a full-time, remote Fishery Management Specialist (Subject Matter Expert) to support the NOAA Fisheries Office of Sustainable Fisheries (OSF). This position will support national fisheries policy and regulatory initiatives, including implementation of Executive Order 14276, through development of fishery management actions, regulatory analyses, and environmental compliance documentation. The position requires deep expertise in federal fisheries management, including development of Fishery Management Plans (FMPs), regulatory amendments, and supporting analyses under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA) and other applicable statutes. This is a prospective position supporting a federal contract effort and offers the opportunity to contribute to high-visibility national fisheries policy and management initiatives.

Background

Azura is seeking a Fishery Management Specialist to support the NOAA Fisheries OSF. OSF supports consideration and resolution of national domestic policy issues, provides support to the regional fishery management councils (councils), manages fisheries for Atlantic highly migratory species, and works with federal partners to ensure the safety of seafood sold in the United States. OSF works closely with NOAA Fisheries regional offices, science centers, councils, interstate marine fishery commissions, and states to ensure U.S. fisheries are sustainably managed. OSF also engages the fishing industry (commercial and recreational), seafood dealers, environmental organizations, federal partners, and academia.

In response to Executive Order 14276, NOAA Fisheries is evaluating public input and council recommendations and advancing actions to improve fisheries management, reduce regulatory burden, and strengthen domestic seafood production. The Fishery Management Specialist will support the development and implementation of these actions.

This position requires strong attention to detail, the ability to manage complex regulatory processes under tight timelines, and excellent communication skills. Candidates must be able to work independently, synthesize complex scientific and policy information, and coordinate across multiple stakeholders.

Place of Performance and Work Schedule

Work is expected to be performed remotely within the United States. Work is full-time (40 hours per week, Monday through Friday). Core availability during standard business hours (Eastern Time) is required, with flexibility outside of core hours. Some travel (e.g., 1–3 trips per year) to support Fishery Management Council meetings or NOAA coordination meetings may be required.

Anticipated Start Date

This position is being recruited prospectively and is contingent upon contract award. The anticipated start date is July 1, 2026, and the period of performance is expected to be three (3) years, pending contract award, funding availability, and successful completion of required security processing.

Duties

The employee will perform a variety of tasks related to the position. Specific tasks may include the following:

• Develop and draft fishery management actions, amendments, and supporting documentation
• Draft and contribute to FMPs and regulatory action packages
• Conduct scientific, policy, and regulatory analyses to support fisheries management decisions
• Support implementation of management measures under the MSA and Executive Order 14276
• Evaluate and contribute to environmental analyses in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
• Develop management alternatives, recommendations, and briefing materials
• Analyze public comments, council recommendations, and stakeholder input
• Coordinate with NOAA Fisheries Regional Offices and Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Division
• Support regulatory review, clearance processes, and administrative record development
• Prepare technical documents, reports, and presentations
• Assist with permitting actions and regulatory documentation as needed
• Track and process fisheries management actions in accordance with established procedures
• Attend or monitor Fishery Management Council meetings, advisory panels, and technical committees

Required Qualifications

• PhD in fisheries science, marine policy, natural resources, or related field; OR Master’s degree with 7+ years of experience in fisheries related technical management
• Demonstrated experience with federal fisheries management actions
• Strong working knowledge of the MSA, including FMPs and amendments
• Experience supporting or conducting NEPA analyses
• Demonstrated experience authoring technical documents (e.g., regulatory actions, environmental analyses, scientific publications, white papers)
• Proven ability to translate complex scientific and regulatory information into actionable strategies
• Strong communication skills, including ability to engage with technical and non-technical audiences
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced regulatory environment
• Authorization to work in the United States and ability to obtain a Public Trust Clearance
• Ability to begin work immediately upon receipt of Public Trust Clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience supporting National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS/NOAA Fisheries)
• Experience working in a highly scrutinized or litigious regulatory environment
• Familiarity with Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 7 consultations
• Experience working with Fishery Management Councils or Atlantic Highly Migratory Species programs
• Background in federal rulemaking, seafood policy, or regulatory development

About Azura

Azura is a woman-owned small business headquartered in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We offer 'big city' resources with 'small town' customer service. Our primary consulting services are focused on natural resources, professional writing and editing, and educational outreach and communication. Please see our website above for more information.