OPPORTUNITIES
JOBS
• GS-9 Hydrologist -
US Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center (CERC)
Description:
The US Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center (CERC), is recruiting a term, GS-9 hydrologist to work with an interdisciplinary team of researchers on biophysical interactions in rivers. The position is in the River Studies Branch (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/columbia-environmental-research-center/science/river-studies), an interdisciplinary team engaged in research to inform river management and restoration decisions. CERC is in Columbia, MO, USA, a vibrant city of about 120,000 residents. Columbia is home to the University of Missouri and has abundant music, art, recreation, and restaurant venues.
This position will emphasize field-based studies evaluating habitat requirements of native mussels, environmental eDNA transport in rivers, and biomechanics of larval fish transport. Field areas include streams of the Ozark Plateaus and large rivers of the Midwest (Missouri, Mississippi, Platte, Yellowstone). The position will also be involved with experiments in a new racetrack style flume designed to provide quantifiable hydraulic conditions in a lotic environment (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/columbia-environmental-research-center/science/cerc-eco-flume). Individuals with skills in computational modeling, python, GIS, hydroacoustics, and applied aquatic ecology are encouraged to apply.
The job application window will be open July 17 through July 31 and is available here:
https://www.usajobs.gov/job/736182900
Applicants are highly encouraged to use USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included in your application.
Application questions should be directed to USAJOBS.
Position questions can be directed to:
Robb Jacobson (rjacobson@usgs.gov)
or Carrie Elliott (celliott@usgs.gov).
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• Aquatic Research Technician -
University at Buffalo, NY
Description:
The University at Buffalo, Department of Biological Sciences in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Sustainability is hiring one full-time Aquatic Research Technician.
In this role you will:
• Work alongside a team of faculty and students from the Department of Environment and Sustainability and the Department of Biological Sciences, supervised by Dr. Isabel Porto-Hannes and Dr. Corey Krabbenhoft.
• Participate in mussel (Unionidae) restoration activities involving propagation, stocking, in-situ bioassays, and water quality sampling.
• Some travel is expected for training workshops and/or scientific conferences.
The position is funded for 2.5 years. The intent is to continue the position beyond the 2.5 years if more funding becomes available.
As an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer, the Research Foundation will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin and veteran or disability status.
FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT THIS JOB AND TO APPLY PLEASE USE THIS LINK:
CLICK HERE
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• Biologist/Aquatic Ecologist/Malacologist, Missouri Office
Entry-Level
Description:
EcoAnalysts, Inc. seeks to hire an entry-level Biologist/Aquatic Ecologist/Malacologist to be part of a successful team of aquatic scientists. If you wish to use your knowledge and experience to help people make highly informed decisions regarding the condition and stewardship of our natural resources, then we encourage you to explore the information below and throughout our entire website at www.ecoanalysts.com. In this position, you will be required to assist mussel, fish, and other aquatic projects out of the Missouri office. This position will include fieldwork, equipment maintenance, data entry, permit reporting, and could include proposal preparation and technical reporting depending on experience.
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Biologist/Aquatic Ecologist/Malacologist, Missouri Office
Mid- to Senior-Level
Description:
EcoAnalysts, Inc. seeks to hire a Biologist/Aquatic Ecologist/Malacologist to be part of a successful team of aquatic scientists. If you wish to use your knowledge and experience to help people make highly informed decisions regarding the condition and stewardship of our natural resources, then we encourage you to explore the information below and throughout our entire website at www.ecoanalysts.com. In this position, you will be required to assist and lead mussel, fish, and other aquatic projects out of the Missouri office. This position will be hired at a mid- to senior-level and will include fieldwork, proposal preparation, project management, field crew supervision, equipment maintenance, data analysis, and report preparation.
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Freshwater Mussel Technician
Description:
Come join a team of conservation professionals at the Xerces Society who are dedicated to protecting some of the world’s most important animals. We are seeking a motivated expert who can join our team of Endangered Species conservation biologists to support the freshwater mussel conservation program.
The position will consist mainly (95%) of conducting fieldwork in rivers and streams throughout Oregon and Washington, which will require the employee to drive a vehicle from their location to field sites. The majority of field sites are located in central Oregon. Duties will be primarily focused on surveying for freshwater mussels in central Oregon, with additional duties to support research and conservation efforts elsewhere in Oregon and Washington. Data collection will require snorkeling and wading in order to conduct visual and tactile surveys for freshwater mussels. The position will report to the Xerces Society’s Freshwater Mussel Program Lead (Portland, OR office) and work in collaboration with other Endangered Species team staff and federal, tribal, and state land management and wildlife agencies.
The successful candidate must have prior experience snorkeling and be able to swim, carry 30 pounds using a backpack, walk over uneven terrain, and be comfortable working long hours in the field as part of a team. Prior experience collecting and identifying freshwater mussels, paddling boats such as kayaks, canoes, or rafts, and driving unimproved roads is preferred. Applicants with SCUBA, wilderness first aid, and/or swift-water rescue certifications is also preferred. Successful candidates will be required to pass an in-water safety training upon hiring.
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Endangered Species Conservation Biologist - Freshwater Mussels
Description:
Come join a team of conservation professionals at the Xerces Society who are dedicated to protecting some of the world’s most important animals. We are seeking a motivated expert who can join our team of Endangered Species conservation biologists to support the freshwater mussel conservation program.
Reporting to the Xerces Society’s Endangered Species Program Mussel Lead (Portland, OR office) and working in collaboration with other Xerces Society conservation staff and project partners, the Endangered Species Conservation Biologist will focus on a variety of projects related to freshwater mussel research, conservation and advocacy. The position includes substantial fieldwork in rivers and streams in the Pacific Northwest, which will require the employee to drive a vehicle from their location to field sites as well as conduct snorkel and wading-based surveys for freshwater mussels. The successful candidate will also be adept at GIS analysis and mapping, data analysis, communication, and collaboration in support of the program’s conservation goals.
The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, ideally with mollusk expertise, experience managing data in ArcGIS platforms, have excellent outreach and presentation skills, and experience managing projects, developing and conducting field-based research projects, writing management guidance, and contributing to evidence-based species assessments and conservation plans. The ability to work collaboratively and build lasting conservation partnerships with diverse groups of people will be crucial to the candidate’s success.
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Malacologist
Description:
EnviroScience, Inc. is currently seeking a Malacologist to support our growing marine services division. Responsibilities include conducting and managing field efforts for freshwater mussel surveys, diving, stream assessments, permit preparation, and technical report writing.
This position includes regular travel, weekend work, long hours, and some tasks will require strenuous fieldwork and work during inclement weather. We prefer to base this position out of our Stow, Ohio office; however, alternative locations may be considered for well-qualified candidates.
This position is planned as a full-time position; however, part-time positions may be considered for well-qualified candidates.
Compensation will be based on the applicant and their experience level.
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Entry- Level Biologist/Malacologist in Training
Description:
Responsibilities for the position will include assisting field efforts for freshwater mussel surveys, snorkeling and diving, stream assessments, agency coordination, data entry and analysis, and technical report writing support. Specific requirements are listed below:
Requirements for Entry-Level Biologist or Malacologist in Training:
• Minimum B.S. degree in the Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Ability to read and interpret resource mapping.
• Experience with technical report writing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to work independently.
• Ability to travel up to 80% of the time during field season (through October 31).
• SCUBA Certification and/or ability to swim, and comfortably work in aquatic environments, and low visibility conditions.
• Experience and familiarity with Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Entry- Level Malacologist
Description:
Responsibilities for the position will include assisting field efforts for freshwater mussel surveys, snorkeling and diving, stream assessments, agency coordination, data entry and analysis, and technical report writing support. Specific requirements are listed below:
Requirements for Entry-Level Malacologist
:
All of the above for the Entry Level Biologist plus the additional requirements below:
• SCUBA Open Water Diving Certificate and 2+ years diving experience
Ability to conduct aquatic surveys independently and manage a team of field biologist and diver.
• Experience with Midwestern freshwater mussel species.
• Have in hand or the ability to obtain Ohio, Pennsylvania, and/or West Virginia qualified surveyor status, state collection permits targeting mussels, and/or federal recovery permit to handle federally listed mussel species.
• Additional background in fisheries, endangered species, herpetology, amphibians, or marine macroinvertebrates.
• Experience with GPS data collection, ArcGIS Online platforms.
Link to Job posting: CLICK HERE
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• Seasonal Freshwater Mussel Research Technicians
Description:
Technicians (2) will assist a MU PhD student, Missouri Department of Conservation staff, and National Park Service staff with aquatic freshwater mussel conservation research. Surveys will occur in the Current River and Jacks Fork River within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways located in southeast Missouri.
Overnight travel will be required (hotel accommodations, meal per diem, and transportation will be provided). Motorized and non-motorized watercraft will be used to access survey sites.
Position based in Columbia, Missouri.
$15/hr, 40hrs/week, late May – mid August 2023.
Housing not provided.
Priority review given to applicants that apply by February 24, 2023.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CLICK HERE
AND TO APPLY, CLICK HERE
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• Freshwater Mussel Survey Technician: Oklahoma
Agency: Oklahoma State University,
Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
Location: Stillwater, OK
Job Category: Temporary/Seasonal Positions
Start Date: 05/15/23- 08/11/23 (negotiable)
Last Date to Apply: 03/31/23
https://www1.usgs.gov/coopunits/unit/Oklahoma
Description:
The OK Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Unit at Oklahoma State University is hiring two (2) freshwater mussel field techs to conduct work surveying for freshwater mussels in the Verdigris River and Caney River. This project is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Field techs will assist with freshwater mussel surveys, side-scan sonar surveys, and the collection of habitat data. This position will be based out of Stillwater, OK and does not include housing. However, qualified applicants living near study sites in northeastern Oklahoma will be considered. Some camping may be required in July and August when mussel surveys begin. Hours will not exceed more than 40 hours per week. Weekly work schedules could vary depending on weather and river conditions.
MORE INFORMATION, HERE.
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• Freshwater Mussel and Barton Springs Salamander Intern
Student Conservation Association Intern with the US Fish and Wildlife Service
San Marcos Aquatic Resource Cente
San Marcos, Texas
Expected Dates:
February 13, 2023 to August 13, 2023 - applications open until position is filled.
Position Detail:
This position will be expected to aid in the center’s mussel propagation and Barton Springs salamander care efforts primarily dealing with care and maintenance of adult and juvenile freshwater mussels held on station. You will be working with a team of biologists and expected to aid other programs and train others to aid with the mussel and salamander programs when needed. Work is performed in accordance with established procedures or special instructions, most often on personal initiative and observation. Must follow established safety rules and required practices for a safe work environment.
More information available: HERE
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• PhD Graduate Assistantship in Freshwater Mussel Ecology
Agency/location:
Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Conservation, University of Maine, Orono.
For more information, CLICK HERE
Ideal start date: Summer or fall 2023
Background: The Yellow Lampmussel (YLM), Lampsilis cariosa, is a medium-sized freshwater mussel occurring in freshwater rivers and lakes from Georgia, USA to Nova Scotia, Canada. The species is declining throughout its range and is a Northeast Regional Species of Greatest Conservation Need. The overall goal of this project is to conduct research to inform and guide conservation and restoration planning for YLM by
1) Assessing landscape-scale threats and potential restoration sites for YLM across its range and
2) Assessing habitat for YLM and potential locations for YLM surveys and restoration.
This is a highly collaborative project including state and federal partners. A key part of this position will be engaging with stakeholders, in addition to data collection and analyses.
For more information and to apply, fill out this Google form
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• PhD Student Opportunity:
Investigation of statewide multi-scale mussel habitat relationships and development of flexible mussel sampling protocols
Agency/location: Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri; Columbia, Missouri
https://snr.missouri.edu/graduate-studies/
Ideal start date: January 2023 (May 2023 possible)
Background: This project, funded by the National Park Service and Missouri Department of Conservation, seeks to conduct surveys on multiple streams throughout Missouri to increase our understanding of mussel-habitat predictive relationships, update distributional information, and develop a flexible sampling protocol that can be regionally adopted by managers. The successful applicant will gain experience working with multiple state and federal agencies on mussel conservation and ecology issues and have access to simultaneously acquired high-resolution habitat data from a companion project.
For more information and to apply, click HERE .
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• AmeriCorps West Virginia -
Conservation Positions, 22/23 Service year.
Click the link below for several AmeriCorps positions to join our habitat restoration team in WV to assist with AOP / fish passage assessments and to assist with a new forest restoration partnership with DNR and NRCs for forest songbirds.
For more information and to apply, click HERE.
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MOLLUSK CLASSES
"Freshwater Mussels of West Virginia: Life History and Identification"
(February 24-28, 2020) - WVU Natural History Museum
During the week of February 24-28, 2020, the WVU Natural History Museum will be offering a professional development course titled “Freshwater Mussels of West Virginia: Life History and Identification” to be taught by mussel biologist Janet Clayton of the WVDNR.
The course consists of one week of intensive work on all aspects of freshwater mussels. Topics include species identification, life history, ecology, conservation status, and management. The class will feature both lectures and hands-on identification of the freshwater mussels found in West Virginia’s waters.
The class fills a need for many natural resource professionals from a variety of state and private agencies to be taught the skills they need to assess streams and rivers for this sensitive taxa and its habitat.
While a test will be offered at the end of the course, the course is not designed to provide the novice the knowledge and experience to immediately become certified to conduct mussel surveys in WV. It is designed to give the novice a starting point in learning techniques for identification of mussels in WV. You would then take that knowledge and hopefully work with more experienced surveyors to continue to develop your experience.
For those experienced individuals working in other parts of North America, this class will give you a chance to study shell forms found within WV and the upper Ohio River Basin. If upon passing the identification test and if you meet the experience criteria, you may be certified to work in WV streams.
The course will be taught at the North Bend State Park (http://www.northbendsp.com ) located in Harrisville, WV. The resort offers food and lodging to accommodate needs of class participants traveling from a distance. Click HERE for a pdf of the flyer for a course outline and registration information..
FOR MORE INFORMATION - call 304.293.3687
Or email donna.hartman@mail.wvu.edu
Click here for more information and sign-up instructions.
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