Coral Propagation and Culture Technician I

AIS•Galveston, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulations as well as collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is looking for a Coral Propagation and Culture Technician I to support NOAA SEFSC Population and Ecosystems Monitoring Division (PEMD). Primary Function: The Coral Propagation and Culture Technician I works in the NOAA Galveston Deep Sea Coral Laboratory under the guidance of the Program Manager and aquaculture staff. The incumbent supports operations of the coral culture facility including routine animal husbandry, water quality monitoring, data entry, and public outreach. Animal husbandry duties are required 365 days per year including holidays and weekends.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in marine sciences or related biology field with at least 2 years of experience maintaining coral culture systems
Knowledge of water quality, aquaculture/mariculture, and animal husbandry concepts; capable of independently performing scientific tasks using established methods
Knowledge of basic plumbing, carpentry, and facility maintenance
Capable of following oral and written instructions; able to learn sea turtle husbandry and recognize animal behaviors
Capable of writing college-level reports and making oral and written presentations
Must possess a valid U.S. driver's license
Must be able to lift 50 lb sacks of salt and work in environments maintained at or near 40°F
Must be able to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

previous saltwater aquaria experience desired

Responsibilities

Assist in maintaining recirculating coral culture systems; monitor water quality and report facility malfunctions to senior staff
Assist in routine care of live coral specimens for health and growth including tank setup and cleaning for ESA coral species
Culture live foods and feed corals (Artemia sp., Rotifers, algae, etc.)
Record and report data on water quality and coral animal health; confer with staff and veterinarians regarding animal care
Perform computer data entry and review using MDBC applications and tools; update tracking sheets and project management tools
Complete required safety training: laboratory safety, chemical hygiene, defensive driving, MSDS, PPE, fire extinguisher, acid handling, battery handling, NOAA IT security, and AED
Participate in public outreach and education activities including open houses, career fairs, and teacher education workshops