Now hiring: Seasonal Aquatic Ecology Field Technician

The Larkin Lab at the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) is seeking a seasonal, part-time field technician (20−40 hrs/week) to assist with research projects on the aquatic invasive species Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, and starry stonewort. Work will be based out of the University of Minnesota (St. Paul campus) and will involve travel to field sites within the metro-area as well as occasional overnight travel in greater Minnesota. Work will be primarily field-based and involve sampling aquatic vegetation, recording and entering field data, and operating watercraft.

Preferred start date: May 2020
Duration: 4–6 months
Salary: $12–$15/hr
Hours: 20–40 hrs/week 

Responsibilities 

The technician will assist with aquatic plant ecology experiments using several methods, including SCUBA diving, surface and underwater observations, and underwater video. The technician will be required to safely operate SCUBA and plant survey equipment, collect aquatic vegetation, identify aquatic plants, and accurately record field data. The technician will be required to SCUBA dive under conditions of low light and dense plant growth. Fieldwork will also involve operation of a handheld GPS, water quality probe, and a light-meter. The technician will help with driving to field sites while towing a boat trailer and will operate a tiller boat to access sampling locations. The technician will assist with entering data collected in the field into MS Excel spreadsheets. Lastly, the technician will assist with other projects as needed. Maintaining clean, operational equipment and a safe work environment will be expected in all areas of work.

View the full position description and learn how to apply here »