Research Technician- ChesMMAP

Job Requisition:

JR101963 Research Technician
- ChesMMAP (Open)

Research Technician
- ChesMMAP

CC00497 VIMS1 | RADV | Natural Resources

Staff - Lab & Research Support

Wage-Temporary (requires end date - non-benefited) (Fixed Term) (Fixed Term)

Hall House

Posting Location - VIMS Gloucester

School Mission Statement
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) has a three-part mission of research, education, and advisory service. Our over-arching goals are to:

Unit Mission Statement
The primary focus of the Multispecies Research Group (MRG) at VIMS is the collection, analysis, and generation of fisheries data in support of resource management and ecological conservation activities in the Chesapeake Bay and along the United States Atlantic Coast. As such, this group maintains a robust field, laboratory, and analytical infrastructure designed to support this mission.

The Research Technician’s core responsibilities will be related to the preparation and execution of the NEAMAP survey that is to be conducted by this program, as well as to the laboratory processing of the field-generated biological samples.

Participation in the MRG’s other long-term monitoring surveys will be as needed.

Research Technicians perform a variety of routine, technical, and administrative responsibilities in support of research at the Institute. They perform duties such as collecting specimens, preparing materials, and operating specialized laboratory equipment.

They assist in preparation for field work and participate in field activities. Under supervision, Research Technicians provide administrative research support such as data integrity and collection of data resources.

They may work independently or as a member of a team. They work under general supervision, resolving most standard issues independently and referring complex issues to an upper-level manager. Technicians typically report to a program manager or director or may report to a senior-level researcher.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Inventory necessary supplies and equipment for research cruises.
• Transport, stow, and configure all survey materials on the chartered fishing vessel.
• Assist with implementation of all necessary catch-processing procedures at sea, including proper use of catch-processing equipment and troubleshooting of that equipment.
• Assist with execution of all ancillary data-collection protocols, including net monitoring, tow tracks, site identification, and atmospheric and hydrographic monitoring.
• Conduct laboratory processing of fisheries-related samples, such as hard parts for aging and fish stomachs for diet determination.
• Participate in other MRG field surveys as needed.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Experience performing aquatic field sampling and data collection using standard fishery techniques in the field and laboratory.

• Some knowledge of basic laboratory safety.
• Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines under direct supervision.
• Ability to follow written and oral directions.
• Ability to maintain records, record data legibly, and conduct data entry with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in an outdoor environment.
• Ability to travel as needed.

• Associate degree and/or equivalent experience.

• Experience with electronics and, in particular, automated catch-data equipment, including Scantrol measuring boards, Marel motion-compensated balances, FEED software, and rugged computer equipment.

• Demonstrated knowledge of sanitation techniques and laboratory and field-work safety.
• Demonstrated knowledge of research and testing procedures and techniques.
• Ability to prepare samples and perform standard or routine laboratory testing.
• Demonstrated skills in operating and maintaining tools and equipment.
• Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines under minimal supervision.
• Attention to detail in the collection and entry of data.
• Ability to maintain records and record test results with a high degree of accuracy.
• Proficiency in a variety of software applications, including Microsoft Office, with the ability to record data.
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in an outdoor environment, as applicable.
• Knowledge of the fauna of the Mid-Atlantic Bight, Southern New England, and the Chesapeake Bay, particularly with respect to their identification and biology.

• This is a…