Coral Propagation and Culture Technician II (MDBC)

AIS•Galveston, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is seeking a Coral Propagation and Culture Technician II to support NOAA SEFSC Population and Ecosystems Monitoring Division (PEMD) at the NOAA Galveston Deep Sea Coral Laboratory. This role involves independently conducting coral culture operations, participating in at-sea surveys for broodstock collection and outplanting, managing coral and water quality databases, responding to disease and bleaching outbreaks, and supporting the preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and research publications.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in marine sciences or related biology field.
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.
Knowledge of basic plumbing, carpentry, and facility maintenance.
Capable of following oral and written instructions and recognizing animal behaviors on the job.
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.
Must be able to work in environments maintained at or near 40°F.
Must be able to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of marine life, preferably corals.
Saltwater aquaria experience desired.

Responsibilities

Maintain recirculating coral culture systems, conduct safety inspections, monitor water quality, and report malfunctions.
Conduct routine care of live coral specimens including tank setup and cleaning for ESA coral species, and confer with veterinarians regarding animal care.
Participate in at-sea surveys for broodstock collection and outplanting of laboratory-reared specimens.
Manage databases for corals and water quality; execute experiments with Program leads as directed.
Respond to unusual coral disease and bleaching outbreaks; transport specimens to Galveston facility for treatment.
Conduct work aboard Federal government and contract vessels; meet vessels to transfer live coral fragments or colonies.
Assist in preparing written SOPs and manuals for cold-water coral husbandry.
Perform data entry (water quality and coral health), QA/QC, and update tracking sheets and project management tools.
Collect and archive journal articles on coral biology, culture, and husbandry; assist in preparing graphs and presentations.
Complete required safety training; participate in outreach and education activities.