Research Associate, SCCF Marine Laboratory

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and caring for Southwest Florida’s ecosystems. The SCCF Marine Laboratory, a member of the Southern Association of Marine Laboratories (SAML), has a staff of six resident scientists.

SCCF is seeking a committed early- to mid-career science professional for a Research Associate position. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

• Master’s degree (M.S.) with at least two years of experience in marine, estuarine, environmental science, or environmental engineering (with a focus on water resources)

• Demonstrated experience with fieldwork and vessel operation, including small boats (up to 22’) and trailering/launching
• Certified SCUBA diver (advanced or scientific diving experience preferred)
• Coursework in environmental science, marine science, biology, or related fields
• Experience writing research proposals, technical reports, and presenting scientific results
• Proficiency with PC-based software, including Excel, Access, PowerPoint, ArcGIS, and Sigma Plot
• Experience with ArcGIS, MATLAB, R, or other statistical software preferred
• Ability to develop and follow detailed protocols and established QA/QC procedures
• Valid Florida driver’s license (or ability to obtain)
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, swim, snorkel, and conduct fieldwork under challenging conditions
• Must be able to pass a background check and pre-employment drug test
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

• Direct day-to-day operations of one or more laboratory research projects or programs
• Conduct and support research and monitoring of local estuarine habitats, including seagrass, oyster reefs, and mangrove shorelines
• Develop research related to habitat function, fish and invertebrate life history, and impacts of marine heatwaves and other disturbances
• Investigate water quality dynamics, including relationships among flow, nutrient loading, and habitat function in regional systems such as Charlotte Harbor, the Caloosahatchee River, Pine Island Sound, and San Carlos Bay

• Lead grant proposal development and research projects, including planning, field sampling, data analysis, and reporting
• Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and funding agency deliverables
• Conduct data entry, database management, GIS analysis, and statistical analysis
• Produce figures, summaries, and reports as required
• Identify marine plants, macroalgae, fish, and invertebrates using dichotomous keys
• Communicate scientific findings to both technical and general audiences through presentations and written summaries
• Lead field sampling efforts for seagrass, water quality, and related research
• Support daily operations of the Marine Laboratory under the direction of the Lab Director
• Supervise interns, technicians, or temporary grant‑funded staff as needed
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director

• Salary: $51,500 annually
• Benefits include health insurance, 401(k) match, and generous paid leave

Applications should be submitted via Trinet with the required Google Form also being fill out.

Start Date:

August 1st 2026