Maite Gato Fuentes
South Lake Tahoe
Summary
Friendly, outgoing, and dependable bartender, server, and marine science professional with over three years of experience delivering exceptional guest service in fast-paced restaurants and bars. Skilled at crafting cocktails, providing exceptional customer service, managing high-volume environments, and creating memorable guest experiences. Currently employed as a part-time Research Technician with Marine Taxonomic Services, bringing strong teamwork, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills developed through both scientific fieldwork and hospitality. Adaptable, hardworking, and passionate about creating positive experiences for guests while thriving in collaborative environments.
Overview
1
1
Certification
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Technician (Part-Time)
Marine Taxonomic Services (MTS)
South Lake Tahoe, CA
05.2026 - Current
- Conduct underwater ecological monitoring and scientific diving operations in Lake Tahoe.
- Collect biological and environmental field data using standardized scientific protocols.
- Assist with aquatic habitat assessments, species identification, and environmental monitoring projects.
- Maintain scientific equipment and prepare field gear for research operations.
- Record, organize, and quality-check field data.
- Collaborate with scientists and field crews while following strict safety standards.
Server & Bartender
Local Public Eatery
Seattle, WA
08.2024 - 04.2026
- Delivered exceptional customer service in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant and bar.
- Prepared cocktails, beer, wine, and mixed drinks efficiently while maintaining quality and consistency.
- Maintained extensive knowledge of spirits, wine, beer, and menu items to provide personalized recommendations.
- Managed multiple tables and bar guests while maintaining excellent service standards.
- Processed POS transactions, handled cash and credit card payments, and balanced tabs accurately.
- Verified guest identification and ensured responsible alcohol service.
- Assisted with opening and closing duties, stocking, inventory management, and maintaining a clean, organized bar.
- Built strong relationships with guests through friendly and attentive service.
Ecologist Assistant
Conservation Legacy – Biscayne National Park
Homestead, FL
06.2023 - 05.2024
- Worked as a Scientist in the Parks (SIP) intern supporting coral reef restoration and marine conservation initiatives.
- Conducted coral outplanting, coral disease treatment, coral nursery maintenance, and marine debris removal.
- Assisted with vessel grounding assessments, seagrass surveys, water quality monitoring, abandoned trap removal, and invasive lionfish removal.
- Operated vessels up to 36 feet and conducted scientific diving operations.
Server
Tap 42
Miami, FL
01.2023 - 07.2023
- Delivered attentive, friendly service in a fast-paced restaurant.
- Maintained extensive knowledge of food and beverage menus.
- Took accurate food and beverage orders while ensuring guest satisfaction.
- Responded professionally to guest requests and concerns.
- Worked collaboratively with kitchen staff to provide efficient service.
Research Aide
Lirman Lab – University of Miami
Miami, FL
09.2022 - 04.2023
- Maintained offshore coral nurseries and monitored restoration sites.
- Conducted coral outplanting, coral tree construction, seagrass sampling, and coral rubble bag dissections.
- Assisted with marine outreach and scientific diving operations.
Host
Eclectico
Coconut Grove, FL
08.2022 - 12.2022
- Greeted guests and managed reservations and waitlists.
- Coordinated seating arrangements and maintained organized front-of-house operations.
External Advisor
Vashon Kelp Project
Vashon, WA
05.2022 - 07.2022
- Led kayak surveys and ecological assessments.
- Conducted public outreach and volunteer education.
- Presented restoration findings to community organizations.
Retail Specialist
REI
Marina, CA
10.2021 - 05.2022
- Assisted customers in selecting outdoor equipment and apparel.
- Maintained inventory and merchandising displays.
- Processed transactions accurately while providing exceptional customer service.
Lab Technician
CSUMB Ecology Lab
Marina, CA
05.2020 - 05.2022
- Completed honors thesis research on coral ecology.
- Performed statistical analyses using R software.
- Wrote scientific reports and presented research findings.
Research Intern
Oregon Institute of Marine Biology
Charleston, OR
04.2021 - 07.2021
- Conducted underwater ecological surveys using photo and video analysis.
- Collected purple sea urchins for ecological research.
- Performed statistical analyses and literature reviews.
Lab Technician
CSUMB Coastal Ecology Lab
Marina, CA
10.2019 - 04.2020
- Processed marine samples to monitor sea urchin recruitment.
- Organized and maintained ecological datasets.
Lab Technician
CSUMB Video & Image Analysis Lab
Marina, CA
04.2019 - 08.2019
- Conducted underwater fish surveys using roving diver transects.
- Identified fish species and analyzed underwater imagery.
- Processed ecological video and photo datasets.
Education
Master of Science - Marine Conservation
University of Miami – Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric & Earth Science
Miami, FL05-2023
Bachelor of Science - Marine Science
California State University, Monterey Bay
Monterey, CA05-2022
Skills
- Customer Service & Guest Relations
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Team Collaboration
- Multitasking in Fast-Paced Environments
- Time Management
- Problem Solving & Adaptability
- Attention to Detail
- Inventory Management & Equipment Maintenance
- Cash Handling & POS Systems
- Data Collection & Record Keeping
- Safety Compliance & Risk Management
Certification
- American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) Scientific Diver
- National Park Service (NPS) Blue Card Diver
- MOCC Certified
- PADI Master Diver
- PADI Rescue Diver
- Reef Check Certified
Timeline
Research Technician (Part-Time)
Marine Taxonomic Services (MTS)
05.2026 - Current
Server & Bartender
Local Public Eatery
08.2024 - 04.2026
Ecologist Assistant
Conservation Legacy – Biscayne National Park
06.2023 - 05.2024
Server
Tap 42
01.2023 - 07.2023
Research Aide
Lirman Lab – University of Miami
09.2022 - 04.2023
Host
Eclectico
08.2022 - 12.2022
External Advisor
Vashon Kelp Project
05.2022 - 07.2022
Retail Specialist
REI
10.2021 - 05.2022
Research Intern
Oregon Institute of Marine Biology
04.2021 - 07.2021
Lab Technician
CSUMB Ecology Lab
05.2020 - 05.2022
Lab Technician
CSUMB Coastal Ecology Lab
10.2019 - 04.2020
Lab Technician
CSUMB Video & Image Analysis Lab
04.2019 - 08.2019
Master of Science - Marine Conservation
University of Miami – Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric & Earth Science
Bachelor of Science - Marine Science
California State University, Monterey Bay