Agency: University of Alaska Fairbanks, Institute of Arctic Biology
Location: Fairbanks, AK
Job Category: Seasonal, 40 hr/week
Salary: $16-23.67/hr, depending on experience
Start Date: May 2022
Application Closing Date: 14 March 2022
Housing: Not provided
Website: https://www.usgs.gov/staff-profiles/jeffrey-d-muehlbauer
Description: The nascent Alaska Rivers Lab at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Institute of Arctic Biology is seeking one to two seasonal freshwater ecology technicians to assist with field research projects. The technician(s) will work closely with the lab Principal Investigator (Dr. Jeff Muehlbauer), as well as collaborators in the US Geological Survey, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, and UAF personnel on one or two research projects:
- Investigating the export of woody debris into rivers in Interior Alaska (near Fairbanks) after wildfire, and its potential effects on riverine habitat
- Determining the effect of recreational boat wakes on bank erosion, sedimentation, and salmon spawning habitat in Big Lake (near Wasilla, pending funding)
The position is expected to begin in early May and to end in late August. Exact dates are flexible.
Duties: The primary duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Measuring large woody debris in rivers (the Chena River near Fairbanks and nearby streams) using basic measuring tools, drift nets, and potentially sonar techniques
- Installing and maintaining water sensors for depth, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, etc.
- Measuring erosion and sedimentation using bank pins, sediment traps or other methods
- Quantifying salmon spawning habitat usage using visual surveys
- Operating a motor boat, field truck while towing a boat, and ATV (or riding as a passenger)
Qualifications: Applicants should hold a bachelors or be near completion of a BS degree in ecology, fisheries, geography, or a related field. There is potential to turn either of these projects into a masters degree program beginning in the fall in either Fisheries, Biological Sciences, or Wildlife Biology & Conservation, pending funding and mutual interest (please mention in your cover letter if this interests you). Past experience relevant to the studies and techniques described above is preferred.
The ideal candidate will be conscientious, detail-oriented, interested in freshwater ecology, and a reliable self-starter. Applicants must be able to work independently with minimal supervision, work well with others, work in occasional harsh weather conditions, be able to hike in rough terrain, willing to camp on occasion, operate (or be trained to operate) four-wheel drive vehicles, tow trailers, and motorized and non-motorized boats, and to lift 50 lbs.
The Alaska Rivers Lab at UAF is committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in freshwater sciences; applicants from traditionally underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
To Apply: Send cover letter, resume, and three references to Dr. Jeff Muehlbauer, jdmuehlbauer@alaska.edu. Review of applications will begin no later than 14 March and will continue until the positions are filled.