Technician Harmful Algal Bloom/Seagrass
(Posted 06/14/2024)

Target Audience: Technician/Staff


Institution: Mote Marine Laboratory, Inc.

Institutional Web Link: https://www.mote.org

Description of Internship or Research Opportunity: Mote Marine Laboratory seeks a Technician to operate and manage a harmful algal bloom (HAB) culture lab as part of the Florida Red Tide Mitigation and Technology Development Initiative and US HAB Control Technologies Incubator programs. The incumbent shall prepare/maintain cultures of Karenia brevis and conduct/assist laboratory and field experiments as well as facilities operations on novel mitigation products, expand culture lab capabilities including conducting/developing innovative culturing of other HABs for mitigation testing. The position will also assist the Seagrass Ecosystem Research & Restoration Program when applicable.

A qualified candidate should have a related science background, knowledge of experimental lab equipment and facilities, water quality sampling/monitoring experience, be willing and able to prepare for and clean up after tabletop lab and large tank testing, and have an understanding of HAB mitigation and control techniques. This individual should be able to work independently to meet culture and experimental design goals, must have strong organization skills, and be a good communicator. This position will report to the Research Laboratory Manager and the primary place of employment is located at the Mote Aquaculture Park at 12300 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34240.


Requirements:
1. Valid Driver’s License.
2. Degree in a related field is required.
3. Knowledge of experimental lab and tank systems.
4. Familiar with standard computer software.
5. The ability to work productively individually or in a group setting with scientists.
Special Qualifications:
1. Knowledge of Karenia brevis and/or other HAB culturing is preferred.
2. Knowledge of Florida marine ecosystems, including seagrass.
3. Previous laboratory and experimental tank systems experience.
4. Microscopy/Flow Imaging Microscopy skills.
5. Familiar with marine organism experimental testing equipment (monitoring probes, temperature probes, tanks, pumps, filters, heaters, etc.).
6. Strong troubleshooting skills.
7. Ability to work independently and stay organized.
8. Good teamwork and communication skills.
9. Physically able to lift 50 pounds and remain standing/walking for multiple hours a day.

Duties:
1. Grow cultures in quantities ranging from 1-1,000 liters of various HAB species. (50%)
2. Maintain a clean and operational lab. (10%)
3. Assist Red Tide Initiative staff and partners with project preparation, experimental design, and facility operations as needed. (25%)
4. Assist the Seagrass Ecosystem Research & Restoration Program with greenhouse facility operations. (15%)


Funding Source: Other


How to Apply: This is a full-time position with an immediate start date, includes an annual salary of $38,000-$46,000 commensurate with experience. The position includes partially-subsidized health insurance, with family options available. Benefits include an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Technician, HAB and Seagrass” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter addressed to Kevin Claridge, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 26, 2024.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.


Application Closing Date: 07/19/2024

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