Position Description and Application Information
Senior Scientific Specialist, Fisheries Ecology
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) investigates and documents the biological resources of Illinois and other areas and acquires and provides natural history information that can be used to promote the common understanding, conservation, and management of these resources. INHS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. To learn more visit https://go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs
The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking a Fisheries Ecologist to administer research activities of the Survey by developing, planning, directing, and conducting basic and applied research with an emphasis on the coordination and participation in sport fish community assessments and monitoring. This position will be in person and based out of Champaign, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct field, hatchery, and laboratory work in support of sportfish management projects in reservoirs in Illinois.
- Measure limnological parameters and sample fish using boat electrofishing and fyke nets in reservoirs.
- Monitor and maintain water quality in medium sized research ponds.
- Collect and re-stock fish in research ponds.
- Participate in fish dissection and the preparation of fish structures and evaluation of structures for age determination.
- Enter collected data into database.
- Conduct general site maintenance including draining research ponds.
- Ensure facilities and equipment are properly maintained, grant and contract obligations are fulfilled, and data quality assurance standards are met.
- Ensure proper maintenance of boats, trailers, outboard motors, hatchery, and laboratory equipment.
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
Additional Physical Demands
Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights; lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Will require working in a lab environment. Lab safety equipment use is required. May require standing and stationary positions. Occasional evenings, weekends, and overnights may be required as well as work from boats on large bodies of water.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, aquatic ecology, biology, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience at it relates to this position. A minimum of 2 years of experience with fish husbandry and age determination. Experience with field gears, microscopy, and freshwater fish identification. Valid Driver’s License
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with data management.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Familiarity with boat operation and safety is preferred. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases. Ability to swim is required.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis, renewable annually based upon satisfactory progress in the position and continuation of funding. The start date is negotiable, and the starting salary is $50,000, commensurate with education, experience, and skill.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on August 29, 2023. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jeffrey Stein at jastein@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1019674
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
