Fisheries/Aquatic Ecology Research Technician
Sam Parr Biological Station
Illinois Natural History Survey
Job Description
The Sam Parr Biological Station is seeking field technicians to conduct field and experimental work as well as laboratory tasks in support of research projects on sportfish management and invasion biology in lakes and ponds. Current research projects include spatial ecology and food web effects of habitat enhancements in reservoirs, experimental harvest regulations, and behavioral ecology of sportfish. Field and experimental work responsibilities include sampling fish, conducting creel surveys, measuring limnological parameters in Illinois lakes and in experimental ponds, collecting data from manipulative experiments, and care of fish. Laboratory tasks include identification and quantification of larval fish, zooplankton and benthic invertebrates, fish age and growth measurements, and other tasks as needed. Work will be conducted in conjunction with faculty, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, other research technicians, and undergraduate interns. Other duties include data processing, and maintenance and repair of station facilities, sampling gears, boats, boat trailers, and laboratory equipment as needed. This position will be based out of the Sam Parr Biological Station in Kinmundy, IL.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, aquatic ecology, or closely related field. Must be knowledgeable or willing to learn field and laboratory techniques associated with fisheries and aquatic ecology research. Good judgement, interpersonal skills and problem solving/critical thinking are essential. Requires significant physical exertion (including carrying 40 or more pounds of gear), commitment to safety, and meticulous data recording. Experience using boats, outboard motors, and trailers, along with some fisheries field and laboratory techniques is preferred. Candidate must be willing to work in challenging weather conditions, possible nights, or weekends, operate and work from a boat, and in experimental ponds. Candidate must be able to work independently. Experience and knowledge with maintenance and repair of mechanical equipment preferred but not required. A valid driver’s license and ability to swim is required.
Salary: $15 per hour
Available: September 2022; renewable 12-month position contingent on performance and funding availability, 40 hours per week
To Apply: For full consideration, applications should be received by September 1, 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 Michael Nannini at mnannini@illinois.edu. (Reference “Fish-Aquatic Eco Tech 2022” in subject line of email).
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