Coral Propagation and Culture Technician – Level II (MDBC / Deep Sea Coral Laboratory)

Think Tank•Galveston, TX

5d•Onsite

About The Position

This position supports the NOAA Galveston Deep Sea Coral Laboratory, involving independent operation of coral culture systems and participation in at-sea surveys. Responsibilities include supporting laboratory studies on coral disease, assisting with data management, and contributing to research reporting. Animal care duties require availability 365 days a year.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in marine sciences or related biology field.
At least 2 years of experience maintaining coral culture systems.
Saltwater aquaria experience desired.
Knowledge of water quality, aquaculture/mariculture, and animal husbandry concepts.
Ability to independently perform scientific tasks.
Knowledge of basic plumbing, carpentry, and facility maintenance.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Capacity to learn sea turtle husbandry and recognize animal behaviors.
College-level writing and oral/written presentation skills.
Valid U.S. driver's license.
Ability to lift 50 lb sacks of salt.
Ability to work in environments maintained at or near 40°F.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of marine life, preferably corals.
Knowledge of water quality and animal husbandry.

Responsibilities

Maintain recirculating coral culture systems, including safety inspections, water quality monitoring, and malfunction reporting.
Conduct routine care of live coral specimens, including tank setup, cleaning, and handling ESA coral species in consultation with veterinarians.
Participate in at-sea surveys for broodstock collection and out-planting of laboratory-reared specimens.
Manage coral and water quality databases and assist with experiment execution as directed by Program leads.
Respond to coral disease and bleaching outbreaks, including field operations and specimen transport.
Conduct work aboard federal government and contract vessels for coral collection or re-stocking activities.
Perform required safety training (lab safety, chemical hygiene, PPE, NOAA IT security, AED, and others).
Assist in drafting standard operating procedures and manuals for cold-water coral husbandry.
Perform data entry (water quality and coral health), QA/QC, and update tracking/project management tools.
Collect and archive scientific literature on coral biology, culture, and husbandry.
Assist Program Manager with graphs, graphics, and PowerPoint presentations.
Participate in public outreach and education events.