Fisheries and Aquatic Ecology Field & Lab Technician (Hourly)
Lake Michigan Biological Station 
Illinois Natural History Survey 
University of Illinois 

The Lake Michigan Biological Station, which is part of the Illinois Natural History Survey, is seeking technicians to participate in daily research activities related to monitoring yellow perch population dynamics, nearshore 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 fish, benthic invertebrates, and zooplankton as well as with SCUBA surveys of nearshore artificial reefs and laboratory sample processing and gear maintenance. Fieldwork will be done from small boats on a large body of water, using a variety of gear (e.g., gill nets, plankton nets). Extensive laboratory work entails time frequently spent at microscopes sorting and 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.

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 at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in fisheries, aquatic ecology, zoology, or a closely related field. The candidate must be physically able to lift up to 50 pounds (including from a depth of over 30 feet), walk up to two miles over uneven terrain, and work outside under adverse field conditions including, but not limited to, biting insects, cold and hot temperatures, humidity, no shade, and rain. Candidates must be able to work on a large body of water and be aware of the possibility of motion sickness. Candidates must be able to work with chemical preservatives. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license, be able to swim, and be willing to work early mornings and weekends. SCUBA certification is preferred. Additional experience with underwater surveys of biota and sample collection, marine craft operation, and interacting with the public is a plus.

Salary: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour, depending on experience.                                   

Available: Start date flexible (November 2026-January 2027); multi-year position, 40 hours per week (includes weekend/ holiday work) 

To Apply: For full consideration, applications should be received by November 15, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled.  Electronic applications are required.  To apply, please send a cover letter, resume/CV, copy of academic transcript, and names and contact information (with emails) of three references to Charlie Roswell at croswell@illinois.edu (Reference “LMBS Tech 2027” in the subject line of email). Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and positions may be filled before closing. 

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.