Research Associate, SCCF Marine Laboratory

Sanibel - Captiva Conservati•Sanibel, FL

18d•$51,500•Onsite

About The Position

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and caring for Southwest Florida’s ecosystems. The SCCF Marine Laboratory, a member of the Southern Association of Marine Laboratories (SAML), has a staff of six resident scientists. SCCF is seeking a committed early- to mid-career science professional for a Research Associate position. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Requirements

Master’s degree (M.S.) with at least two years of experience in marine, estuarine, environmental science, or environmental engineering (with a focus on water resources)
Demonstrated experience with fieldwork and vessel operation, including small boats (up to 22’) and trailering/launching
Certified SCUBA diver (advanced or scientific diving experience preferred)
Coursework in environmental science, marine science, biology, or related fields
Experience writing research proposals, technical reports, and presenting scientific results
Proficiency with PC-based software, including Excel, Access, PowerPoint, ArcGIS, and SigmaPlot
Ability to develop and follow detailed protocols and established QA/QC procedures
Valid Florida driver’s license (or ability to obtain)
Ability to lift 50 lbs, swim, snorkel, and conduct fieldwork under challenging conditions
Must be able to pass a background check and pre-employement drug test
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Nice To Haves

Experience with ArcGIS, MATLAB, R, or other statistical software preferred

Responsibilities

Direct day-to-day operations of one or more laboratory research projects or programs
Conduct and support research and monitoring of local estuarine habitats, including seagrass, oyster reefs, and mangrove shorelines
Develop research related to habitat function, fish and invertebrate life history, and impacts of marine heatwaves and other disturbances
Investigate water quality dynamics, including relationships among flow, nutrient loading, and habitat function in regional systems such as Charlotte Harbor, the Caloosahatchee River, Pine Island Sound, and San Carlos Bay
Lead grant proposal development and research projects, including planning, field sampling, data analysis, and reporting
Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and funding agency deliverables
Conduct data entry, database management, GIS analysis, and statistical analysis
Produce figures, summaries, and reports as required
Identify marine plants, macroalgae, fish, and invertebrates using dichotomous keys
Communicate scientific findings to both technical and general audiences through presentations and written summaries
Lead field sampling efforts for seagrass, water quality, and related research
Support daily operations of the Marine Laboratory under the direction of the Lab Director
Supervise interns, technicians, or temporary grant-funded staff as needed
Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director