USGS Corvallis Research Group will be seeking a biological science technician located in Corvallis, OR to assist in studies of food web ecology and contaminant bioaccumulation in aquatic ecosystems. We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated individual with strong laboratory and field skills that has experience participating in ecological research.
Duties: This position will entail a combination of lab work, field work, and data entry. The incumbent will assist a team of researchers in varied research projects investigating contaminant bioaccumulation and impacts to key species and ecosystem services. Specific duties may include processing biological samples in the lab for contaminant and biomarker analyses, entering and managing large datasets, maintenance of equipment, sampling and quantitatively enumerating zooplankton and aquatic invertebrates, as well as fishes, and collecting biological and water quality data in the field under varied and sometimes extreme conditions, operating motor boats and kayaks, safely driving 4-wheel drive vehicles in adverse conditions. Candidates must be comfortable on boats, in and around water bodies, and in remote settings, and must be able to travel for extended periods (up to 10 days per month) during the field season. The incumbent will be required to work both independently and as a team member to execute field research.
Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, ecotoxicology, or a related discipline and professional research experience. Familiarity and experience with lab analyses of water chemistry, fish physiology methods, and experience with general lab practices is preferred. Preferred candidates will also have documented experience with numerous zooplankton, aquatic invertebrate and fish sampling techniques, and the ability to identify invertebrates to high taxonomic resolution and identify freshwater fish species in the field Other skills of interest possessed by candidates may include: experience with zooplankton and benthic invertebrate field sampling and general limnology experience. A current driver's license and a good driving record are required. Applicants must be able to lift 40 lbs. Experience with the operation of 4WD vehicles, standard software packages including ArcGIS, is desirable.
We are seeking an organized, enthusiastic and versatile person with strong science and work ethics and a desire to gain experience in a variety of disciplines. Must be willing to work some long hours, including early morning or evening hours and some weekends as needed. Housing is not provided.
This will be a temporary 6-9 month position with a possible extension dependent upon funding. Start date is expected to be in Winter 2019/2020.
Send cover letter, resume, and 3 references to Collin Eagles-Smith (ceagles-smith@usgs.gov) with “Biology Technician” as the subject line. THIS IS A PRE-ANNOUNCEMENT ONLY. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE REQUIRED APPLICATION PROCESS. The USGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, fitness, and qualifications without regard to race, sex, color, religion, age, marital status, national origin, non-disqualifying handicap conditions, sexual orientation, or any other non-merit factors. This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities.