Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist

ACRT-posted 2 days ago
Full-time • Entry Level
Hybrid • Stow, OH
251-500 employees
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The Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist is responsible for completion of macroinvertebrate services and project work at the headquarters office. The Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist will be responsible for laboratory sample processing, identification of aquatic macroinvertebrates, and completion of aquatic macroinvertebrate field survey project work. Requirements of this position include but are not limited to laboratory work, field work, and data management while also offering the opportunity to assist with other project efforts such as proposal preparation, technical report writing, and other aquatic survey or natural resources services.

  • Laboratory Sample Processing, Identification, and Analysis
  • Process collected samples in preparation for identification. This may include, but is not limited to, sorting and/or subsampling following standard protocols.
  • Identify aquatic macroinvertebrates to the family, genus, or species level using taxonomic keys and microscopy.
  • Maintain and organize a reference collection of specimens to ensure taxonomic accuracy.
  • Perform quality control and validation of identification data to ensure consistency and reliability in results and analysis.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment or supply inventory and ensure proper storage.
  • Field Work and Surveys
  • Collect aquatic macroinvertebrates from streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands using various sampling techniques (e.g., kick nets, artificial habitats, and drift nets).
  • Collect in-situ measurements of water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen) during sampling events.
  • Ensure proper handling, preservation, and labeling of collected specimens for laboratory analysis.
  • Evaluate and document aquatic habitats, assessing instream features such as substrate composition, flow regime, and water depth.
  • Maintain field equipment inventory and ensure proper storage and transportation.
  • Data Management and Reporting
  • Tabulate and analyze data related to macroinvertebrate assemblages and community structure using computer software.
  • Calculate standard macroinvertebrate community metrics or indices such as the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) or Hilsenhoff Biotic Index (HBI).
  • Assist in the preparation of detailed technical reports.
  • Project Assistance
  • Communicate with field technicians, team and field crew leads, and project managers, providing updates on project progress and addressing technical questions related to macroinvertebrate sampling and identification.
  • Support business development by assisting with proposal efforts.
  • Mentorship and Technical Expertise
  • Advise less experienced personnel in laboratory duties or field survey techniques.
  • Provide comprehensive review of data calculations, reports, and draft documents as needed.
  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Education: B.S./B.A. degree in natural science field of study
  • Experience: 2+ years of experience in macroinvertebrate sampling and genus or species level identification in freshwater ecosystems.
  • Proficiency in the use of taxonomic keys for macroinvertebrate identification to at least the family or genus level.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in laboratory settings, especially during specimen identification and data management.
  • Experience with data management software and ability to interpret ecological indices.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office computer programs (i.e. Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
  • Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience: Master's degree in Aquatic Ecology, Entomology, or Environmental Science.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in macroinvertebrate taxonomy and field sampling.
  • Certification as a Taxonomist by a recognized body (e.g., Society for Freshwater Science).
  • Proficiency in identifying macroinvertebrates to the species level.
  • Familiarity with environmental regulations such as the Clean Water Act and experience in conducting impact assessments.
  • Strong skills in conducting detailed field research using various survey methods.
  • Ability to operate and trailer boats of various sizes on different types of waterbodies.
  • Physical ability to work in outdoor field conditions, including wading in streams and rivers and carrying equipment.
  • Ability to lead field crews and multi-task regularly in a fast-paced, changing work environment
  • Project and/or client management.
  • Demonstrated ability to write or assist with technical reports.
  • High attention to detail in data collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure accuracy and reliability.
  • Organizational skills to manage workload and the ability to assist with multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for coordinating with project team and supervisors, preparing reports, and interacting with clients.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in team environment
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to address issues encountered in the field.
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