HIMB Fish Habitat Lab Technician

Job Summary

CLOSING DATE: June 21, 2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended.

Regular, Full-Time, Limited-Term (not to exceed twelve (12) months in duration from date of hire), RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Johansen Fish Resilience Program at Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB), located in Honolulu, Hawai'i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.

MONTHLY SALARY RANGE: $4,300 - $4,800/Mon.

DUTIES: Uses field intensive techniques, including data and animal collections. Uses laboratory-based techniques. Maintains and upgrades laboratory equipment. Conducts 3D scanning and photogrammetry of coral reef habitats. Assists with artificial, biomimetic and natural fish habitat quantifications and designs. Maintains online data management. Assists PI, postdoctoral, graduate researchers and staff with study design, implementation, data analysis, and/or writing for numerous research projects related to natural, artificial and biomimetic fish habitat designs, conservation and restoration.

Trains researchers including staff, students, volunteers, and fellows on 3D habitat quantification and data analyses. Designs and implements strategies to improve efficiency with these techniques and troubleshoots issues that arise. Assists with maintaining the optimal working condition of the instruments and laboratory facilities. Assists with maintaining the optimal working condition of the entire Johansen Fish Resilience Program equipment, instrumentation and facilities including the land-based aquaria, the seawater supply system, and all surrounding areas are clean, safe, and functional.

Drives to pick up equipment for services and maintenance. Helps ensure the facility adheres to current safety and laboratory standards by complying with the Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) standards (e.g., staff are properly trained and in appropriate attire).

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Genetics, or related science field.
EXPERIENCE: Three to five (3-5) years of work experience in a research laboratory or aquaculture setting as an aquarist or research technician. Includes three to five (3-5) years of experience with photography, particularly as it relates to the photomosaic imaging of benthic aquatic habitats, data collection, 3D model construction, data archiving and analyses. Experience working in a marine-related laboratory. One to three (1-3) years of habitat mapping and photogrammetry.

Experience in a marine lab setting with fish husbandry and field deployment of instruments.
KNOWLEDGE: Proficient knowledge in coral reef ecology and aquarium maintenance. Working knowledge of scientific and operational requirements for various marine underwater survey techniques and field experiments. Knowledge of animal ethics for laboratory purposes (IACUC). Knowledge and understanding of principles and practices for live animal research. Knowledge of statistical procedures to perform data analyses, including interpretation of results pertaining to ecosystem processes or behavioral/physiological ecology.
ABILITIES & SKILLS: Experimental design skills, particularly techniques such as habitat measurements, 3D photogrammetry, and analysis for research purposes. Strong problem-solving skills, and ability to troubleshoot a variety of technical and procedural issues. Ability to communicate with a variety of audiences, including researchers, policy makers, managers, the press, and laypersons. Ability to establish work standards/expectations and clear direction to meet goals and objectives of ongoing work for direct reports.

Ability to establish work rules and acceptable levels of quality and quantity of work. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Ability to prioritize tasks and meet multiple competing deadlines. Strong research and writing skills, as evidenced by public presentations or publication record. Ability to maintain detailed notes and follow protocols, as well as prioritize competing objectives and complete research projects on schedule and on budget.

Ability to show initiative, and to maintain detailed notes, schedules, and data backups to meet the grant requirements for various projects using the Johansen Fish Resilience Program Facilities. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve unexpected issues as they arise in the unpredictable research environment. Must possess a valid driver's license (and if use of personal vehicle on the job is required, must also have valid personal driver's insurance equivalent to Hawai'i's No-Fault Driver's Insurance) and maintain throughout the duration of employment.

Post-Offer/Employment Conditions :
Must be able to complete any required UH Manoa Laboratory, Title IX or Responsible Conduct of Research…