Fisheries/Aquatic Ecology Research Technician
Kaskaskia Biological Station
Illinois Natural History Survey
Job Description
Conduct field and laboratory work in support of research projects on sportfish management and invasion biology in lakes and rivers. Current research projects include spatial ecology and food web effects of habitat enhancements in reservoirs, experimental harvest regulations, and the ecology and management of invasive carp in the Illinois River. Field work responsibilities include measuring limnological parameters, sampling fish, zooplankton, and macroinvertebrate communities, and conducting creel surveys in rivers and lakes throughout Illinois. Primary laboratory responsibilities include the identification and quantification of larval fish, zooplankton, and macroinvertebrates using standard microscopy techniques. Must be able to maintain focus for extended periods working at a microscope with high standards for accuracy and data quality. Must be knowledgeable or willing to learn field and laboratory techniques associated with fisheries and aquatic ecology research. Experience operating boats, outboard motors, and trailers is preferred. Other duties include data entry, and maintenance of sampling gears, boats, outboard motors, boat trailers, and laboratory equipment. Experience with field gears, microscopy, and the use of dichotomous keys is preferred. Work will be conducted in conjunction with faculty, graduate students, and other research assistants. Job offers come with an expected commitment of 12-24 months.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, aquatic ecology, biology, or closely related field. Good judgement and interpersonal skills are essential. Requires significant physical exertion (including carrying 40 or more pounds of gear), commitment to safety, and meticulous data recording. Familiarity with boat operation and safety desirable, as is experience with microscopy and data management. Candidate must be willing to work in adverse weather conditions, occasional evenings, weekends, and overnights, and work from a boat on large water bodies. Laboratory work includes extended periods working at a microscope and requires visual acuity, focus, and attention to detail. A valid driver’s license and ability to swim is required.
Salary: $15 per hour.
Available: Immediately; 40 hours per week, 12-months position per year; occasional evenings, weekends, and overnights; expected commitment of 12-24 months; position renewable after 2 years contingent on performance and funding availability
To Apply: For full consideration, applications should be received by November 30, 2022, but position will remain open until filled. Electronic applications required. To apply, please send cover letter, resume, copy of unofficial college transcripts, and names and contact information of three references to Anthony Porreca at porreca@illinois.edu. (Reference “Fish-Aquatic Eco Tech 2022” in subject line of email).
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