Individual Placement - Edwards Aquifer Research

Student Conservation Association•San Marcos, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This individual placement is based at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife San Marcos Aquatic Resources Center and primarily supports the Edwards Aquifer Refugia Program. The program maintains endangered and threatened organisms from the Edwards Aquifer and its associated springs and rivers so that species can be reintroduced if their habitats are compromised by conditions such as drying springs, chemical spills, or other environmental disturbances. Current work also includes research on population genetics, organism biology and ecology, and improved husbandry methods. The placement focuses on thermal tolerance testing of species covered by the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan, care of covered and surrogate species, operation of a Thermal Biological Assessment Devise, and documenting testing results. The member may also assist USFWS staff with general station upkeep and other projects. The position is located in San Marcos, Texas, runs from November 2, 2026, through May 8, 2027, and is scheduled for 40 hours per week. Housing is not provided. Driving a motor vehicle for the partner agency or organization is required. The position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority, with eligibility requirements described in the posting.

Requirements

Experience with Thermal Biological Assessment Devises.
Participants must be between 16 and 30 years old, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger.
Participants must be a U.S. citizen or national, or a lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
Participants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, agree to obtain one, or be enrolled in an institution of higher education.
Must be able to complete or fulfill all partner driving requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience using laboratory equipment such as microscopes, scales, pipets, and forceps.
Experience with husbandry and maintaining aquatic species.
Experience building and maintaining aquaculture systems, such as fish tanks.
Education in aquatic sciences.

Responsibilities

Carry out thermal tolerance testing to determine minimum and maximum temperatures for Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan covered species.
Carry out thermal tolerance testing to determine preferred temperatures for Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan covered species.
Maintain the Thermal Biological Assessment Devise on station.
Provide husbandry and care for Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan covered species and any surrogate species.
Collect data and write summary reports on thermal tolerance testing outcomes.
Assist USFWS staff with general station upkeep, such as mowing, power washing, and picking up trash.
Assist with other projects on station as opportunities arise.
Drive a motor vehicle for the partner agency or organization.