Fisheries/Aquatic Ecology Research Technician (Hourly)
Kaskaskia Biological Station
Illinois Natural History Survey
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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 at least 12 months.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, fisheries, aquatic ecology, or a closely related field. Good judgment 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 is 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 the ability to swim are required.
Salary: $16.00 - $17.00 per hour based on experience
Available: Immediately; 40 hours per week, 12 months per year; occasional evenings, weekends, and overnights; expected commitment of 12 months; position renewable contingent on performance and funding availability.
To Apply: Applications will be considered as they are received, with an expected close date of 1/30/2026, but the position will remain open until filled. Electronic applications required. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, copy of unofficial college transcripts, and names and contact information of three professional references to Dr. Anthony Porreca, 217-728-4851, porreca@illinois.edu.
The U of I is an EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled http://go.illinois.edu/EEO that participates in the federal e-Verify program and participates in a background check program focused on prior criminal or sexual misconduct history.