Fisheries Research Technician
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign
Job Description
The Sport Fish Ecology Lab at the Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking 1 qualified Fisheries Research Technician to assist graduate student Justin Lombardo in a research project studying the effects of angling on spawning largemouth and smallmouth bass in southern Ontario, Canada. The candidate may also assist in adjacent projects focused on largemouth and smallmouth bass movement inside and outside of spawning sanctuary zones. The scope of this position includes angling, operation, and maintenance of outboard motor boats, operation and maintenance of ATVs, extensive snorkeling, scale sample collection, and potentially assisting with surgical implementation of electronic transmitters. Duties will include extensive fieldwork, often in cold and wet conditions. The Queen’s University Biology Station is located in a remote area, meaning that poor cell service and wifi should be expected outside of the research station.
Qualifications
Required:
- A positive attitude with a strong work ethic and desire for advancement in the fisheries field
- Must be able to regularly lift 50 lbs.
- Must be willing to work from remote locations with little to no cellular service for extended periods.
- Must be willing to work odd hours and weekends if necessary.
- Must be able to consistently work in outdoor weather conditions and endure physical activity.
- Must be able to swim.
- Must have a clean driving/criminal record (no DUI citations, suspended license, felonies, etc)
Preferred:
- Enrolled in a biology/natural resources degree program.
- Experienced in operating and maintaining boats, motors, and field equipment.
- Experienced angler.
- Experienced in maneuvering trailers.
Application: Applications must be received by April 5, 2024. To Apply: Please send a cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for 3 references to Justin Lombardo at justin9@illinois.edu. (Reference “Summer Fisheries Tech” in the subject line).
Start date: ~ May 1, 2024 (with some flexibility to start later)
Salary: $14 per hour – 40 hours per week + opportunities for overtime.
Duration: 2 - 4 Months (Transportation/Housing provided)
For more information:
Justin Lombardo
NRES Research Assistant, University of Illinois
Email: justin9@illinois.edu
Phone: (309) 885-2382
