Timothy Elfers
I coordinate technical staff, vessels, warehouse, vehicles, and data-gathering equipment for the USGS Pacific Coastal Marine Science Center field activities. I coordinate with technical and scientific staff to plan near- and long-term, multi-faceted field operations and identify, procure, fabricate, install, repair, modify and test all new and existing data collection equipment.
I'm a northern California native, growing up in the small coastal/college town of Arcata, CA in the heart of Humboldt County. I studied oceanography and geology and started my career volunteering for a number of research cruises collecting sediment from the shelf and slope of the Eel River littoral zone. After graduation, I held various scientific support positions and have now been with the USGS for 18 years, starting as a marine technician and machinist before landing in my current role.
Professional Experience
Marine Operations Manager - U.S. Geological Survey
Engineering Technician - U.S. Geological Survey
Marine Technician - University of Washington, School of Oceanography
Field Technician - Pacific International Engineering
Field Technician - Phillip Williams and Associates
Marine Technician - U.S. Geological Survey
Sediment Lab and Field Technician - Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, Savannah GA
Student Volunteer - Humboldt State University, School of Oceanography
Education and Certifications
B.S. Oceanography - Humboldt State University - 1997
Certified personal watercraft operator
Certified small boat operator
CDL truck driver