CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM
POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant
REPORTS TO: Senior Research Scientist
SUPERVISES: Volunteers
EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Exempt
PERCENTAGE OF FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT: 100%; Annual Salary $29,224
POSITION LOCATION: Northeast Florida
APPLICATION LINK:
https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=23137&clientkey=ACEBE78A76290C9FE9C1DC934A5E82A6
CLOSING DATE: December 27, 2021
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
– Deploy, safely maneuver in open-water, and reload small vessels independently
– Trailer vessels under intense traffic conditions
– Basic mechanical skills and ability to troubleshoot simple mechanical and electrical vehicle/vessel problems
– Proficient snorkeler with ability to swim in dark or turbid water
– Ability to kayak and perform reentry
– Ability to lift approximately 50 pounds of equipment
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:
The position will be geographically located in the northeast Florida area with the focused study area along the northeast and central waterbodies of Florida and eastern Georgia. Travel to other areas of the state will be required based on animal movements or project needs. The primary responsibilities of this position are to radio track, monitor, assess and document the behavior of tagged manatees and to photo identify and document individual manatees. Duties include but are not limited to boat trailering, operating vessels, swimming, equipment maintenance, data entry and timely communication with staff and other project partners. The position will require travel extensively within Florida and Georgia using a fleet or a personal vehicle. Private vehicle mileage will be reimbursed at the IRS standard rate out of designated living area. The position will require supervision of volunteers involved with tracking manatees. The position will also provide updates to various partners through verbal and written reports, updating website and social media.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Conduct project manatee monitoring observations using radio tracking equipment via boat and land access at designated locations
• Collect manatee behavior and obtain adequate photo-documentation of manatees for individual identification and preliminary body condition using a polarized digital camera or GoPro
• Assess manatee overall condition and conduct in-water manatee body condition assessments as needed
• Collect data to include environmental conditions (specific site location water temperatures, sea state, weather conditions, etc.)
• Submit data and photos by the close of each observation day; submit datasheets weekly
• Process data via Microsoft Excel, Word and ArcGIS
• Provide processed data files and produce written reports as needed
• Update project website and provide photos/story tags for other social media outlets
• Participate in health assessment captures and rescues
• Responsible for routine maintenance and repair of field equipment
• Responsible for assigned truck and vessel record keeping and maintenance
• Communicate professionally with other project partners and assist with additional tasks as required and/or assigned by the supervisor
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
– Bachelor Degree in Biology or related field (e.g. ecology, environmental science) and three years working in a research focused position OR Master Degree in Biology or related field (e.g. ecology, environmental science)
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required.