Fisheries Technician (Hourly)
Lake Michigan Biological Station
Illinois Natural History Survey
University of Illinois
Job Description
The Lake Michigan Biological Station is looking for a fisheries Technician to participate in daily research activities related to monitoring yellow perch population dynamics, nearshore and tributary fish assemblages, benthic invertebrate and zooplankton resources, biological community assessment of nearshore artificial reefs, and sport fish harvest dynamics along the Illinois shoreline of Lake Michigan. Interview shoreline and boat anglers on their fishing effort, expenditures, harvest, and biological characteristics of fish in their possession. Responsible for assisting with field sampling of fishes, benthic invertebrates, and zooplankton as well as with monthly SCUBA surveys of nearshore artificial reefs and laboratory sample processing and gear maintenance. Field work will be done from small boats on a large body of water, and in tributaries, using a variety of gears (e.g., gill nets, backpack electrofishing). Laboratory work entails frequent time spent at microscopes identifying organisms, as well as fish dissections and processing structures for aging. Responsible for detailed record keeping and interacting with the public in a professional manner. Work may occur in a hatchery setting. This position will be located at the Lake Michigan Biological Station in Zion, IL. Fieldwork will also occur in various locations throughout Cook County and Lake County, IL.
Qualifications
Must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in fisheries, aquatic ecology, zoology, or related field. The candidate must be physically able to lift up to 50 pounds (including from a depth of up to 60 feet), walk up to two miles, and work outside under adverse field conditions including, but not limited to, biting insects, cold and hot temperatures, humidity, no shade and rain. Candidate must be able to work on a large body of water and be aware of possibility of motion sickness. Candidate must be able to work with chemical preservatives. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license, be SCUBA certified and able to swim, and be willing to work early mornings and weekends. Additional experience with underwater surveys of biota and sample collection, marine craft operation, and interacting with the public is a plus.
Salary: $14.50 – 16.50 per hour, depending on experience.
Available: October 2022; multiple year position, 40 hours per week. Includes weekend and holiday work.
To Apply: For full consideration, applications should be received by October 31, 2022, but position will remain open until filled. Electronic applications required. To apply, please send cover letter, resume/CV, copy of academic transcript, and names and contact information of three references to Charlie Roswell at croswell@illinois.edu (Reference “LMBS Tech 2022” in subject line of email). Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
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