Temporary Biological Science Research Technician

Overview

Position Details

Position Information

Department:
Fisheries and Wildlife (AFW)

Classification

Title:

Temp Bio Sci Research Tech 1

Job Title:

Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 1

Appointment Type:
Temporary Staff

Job Location:

Corvallis

Benefits Eligible:
Not benefits eligible

Remote or Hybrid option?

Employment Category:
Temporary

Job Summary:

This recruitment will be used to fill two full-time Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 1 positions for the Fisheries & Wildlife program at Oregon State University (OSU).

The position will assist in scientific research in the Columbia River basin (Southwestern Washington, Northern & Eastern Oregon, and Southwestern Idaho). This project is a high-resolution, watershed-level mercury monitoring effort to characterize spatiotemporal trends in mercury levels, using dragonfly larvae (Anisoptera) as biosentinels.

Responsibilities include field work in remote areas, up to 8 days at a time, often involving overnight camping. Field surveys will involve daily sampling trips to multiple sites located on private and public wetlands, including ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers. Sampling includes netting and collecting dragonfly larvae, collecting water and soil samples, and recording in situ water chemistry and habitat observations.

This fieldwork requires navigating difficult terrain and working in various weather conditions. All field gear is provided, except camping gear. The role also includes laboratory work in Corvallis, with tasks including processing soil and dragonfly samples.

Employees must be able to report to work in Corvallis, Oregon for the duration of the 4.5-month employment term. Camping reservations with bathroom/shower access during sampling trips will be provided; housing in or around Corvallis will not be provided.

The work schedule consists of 8 days of 8 hours each in the field with 5 days off. Some days will require significant travel time to field sites. Intermittently, field days will be replaced with laboratory days to assist with processing samples.

There is an emphasis on a culture of safety and collaboration, with a commitment to the CAS CARE Commitment in the College of Agricultural Sciences.

• 80% Fieldwork:
  Collecting dragonfly larvae with dipnets, collecting water and soil samples, and recording water chemistry and habitat observations; driving OSU motorpool vehicles to and from field sites; work collaboratively with team members to ensure a safe and respectful work environment.
• 15% Laboratory work:
  Processing dragonfly and soil samples, calibrating and maintaining equipment.
• 5% Outreach & education:
  Participating in educational events with children and adults.

• Two years of college-level courses in a biological science field or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Two years of college-level courses in Fisheries and Wildlife, Ecology, Biology, Zoology, or related field; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Strong commitment to safety and attention to detail.
• Ability to hike and wade in uneven terrain and to work in challenging weather conditions.
• Ability to use a dipnet to collect aquatic macroinvertebrates for several hours a day.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of an ecological research team and to work independently with guidance.
• Ability to navigate remote areas using a GPS.
• Demonstrated ability to work productively and cooperatively in a team environment.
• Must be able to drive a university or personal vehicle for university duties; requires motor vehicle history check, valid driver’s license, and adherence to University policies.
• Position is designated as critical or security-sensitive and requires criminal history checks and self-reporting of certain matters; additional checks may be required for those in youth programs.

• Fieldwork in wetlands, identification of aquatic macroinvertebrates, laboratory work (chemistry preferred), and environmental education/outreach.
• Interest in aquatic macroinvertebrates, freshwater ecology, and ecotoxicology.
• Ability to drive 4×4 vehicles on rough roads.
• CPR / First Aid…