Job Title
Sportfish Operations and Angler Engagement Coordinator
Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Department
Harte Research Institute
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Type
Staff
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.
TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.
PURPOSE
The Sportfish Operations and Angler Engagement Coordinator supports inshore and offshore fisheries research, public outreach, and operational field activities for the Center for Sportfish Science and Conservation. This position serves as a liaison between the recreational angling community and research programs by coordinating field-based fisheries-related projects, fostering relationships with anglers and captains, and promoting science-based fisheries conservation initiatives. The position also includes responsibilities associated with vessel operations, offshore safety, field support, and marine logistics in support of research and outreach activities and will include additional duties as assigned in support of Center operations.
Functional Area 1: Offshore Operations and Vessel Coordination
Percent Effort: 40%
Coordinate inshore and offshore field operations in support of fisheries research and outreach programs.
As a licensed captain, this position will help lead vessel operations to ensure safe and productive research, including in offshore environments under varying sea and weather conditions.
Maintain compliance with applicable boating and safety regulations.
Coordinate trip logistics, fuel management, vessel readiness, equipment, and offshore operational planning.
Operates university vehicles to support field logistics, including transportation of personnel and equipment to sites.
Assist with deployment and retrieval of research equipment and sampling gear.
Maintain vessel cleanliness, maintenance schedules, and operational preparedness.
Functional Area 2: Angler Engagement and Outreach
Percent Effort: 40%
Build and maintain relationships with recreational anglers, captains, marinas, charter operators, tournament organizations, and similar individual/organizations.
Represent the Center at a variety of public and private events such as fishing tournaments, community outreach events, industry meetings, and educational programs.
Promote responsible fishing practices and science-based conservation initiatives.
Support recruitment and engagement of anglers for cooperative research programs such as our Sportfish Tagging Initiative
Functional Area 3: Research and Field Support
Percent Effort: 15%
Assist research staff with field sampling and offshore data collection.
Support fisheries research projects through field logistics and operational coordination.
Assist with collection, organization, and transport of biological samples and field equipment.
Train seasonal staff, volunteers, or students on offshore safety and vessel operations as appropriate
This position will serve in a trainer role, responsible for training other labs; no trainees will report directly to this position.
Functional Area 4: Communications and Program Support
Percent Effort: 5%
Assist with development of outreach materials including photographs, videos, social media content, and educational materials.
Support public-facing communication efforts that highlight Center activities and conservation initiatives.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree
Three (3) years of experience in offshore operations, recreational fisheries, marine operations, or related field.
Valid Driver’s license.
Valid USCG Captain’s License
Extensive offshore sportfishing and vessel operations experience for a variety of vessel sizes from small outboards to larger live-abord research vessels
Experience operating vessels in offshore environments.
Strong understanding of recreational fisheries and offshore sportfishing operations.
Ability to work flexible hours including weekends, early mornings, evenings, and extended offshore trips.
Experience working internationally.
Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
This position will serve in a trainer role, responsible for training other labs; no trainees will report directly to this position.
A captain’s certification and offshore experience with sport fishes is a major requirement for this position, as demonstrated experience or specialization in training.
Ability to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer networks and systems, cybersecurity systems, electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment system or water treatment system.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience coordinating offshore logistics and field operations.
Knowledge of Gulf, Atlantic, and Pacific recreational fisheries and sportfish species.
Experience with outreach, public engagement, or donor relations.
Experience creating media content including photography, video, and social media communications.
Experience working alongside fisheries researchers or marine science programs.
CPR/First Aid certification.
SALARY: Up to $5,000 monthly (Up to $60,000 Annual, Approximately)
Note: Employment may be impacted by the Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.
BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
From our generousbenefits packageand professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.
Medical
$0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
Employee and Spouse
Employee and Children
Employee and Family coverage
Dental & Vision
Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES
Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Public Loan Forgiveness
Book scholarships
100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
12-15 paid holidays each year.
All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.
Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.
