Research Technician

W&M Entrepreneurship Hub; Gloucester; On-site; USD 35,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job description

Position Information

• Position Number: 00384V
• Position Title: Research Technician
• Employment Category: Full Time
• Operational Location: VIMS - Gloucester
• Department: 1N2100

Unit Mission Statement

The mission of VIMS is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service. VIMS’ strategic sections are committed to the development of resilient systems through a focus on three grand challenges, ensuring science for stewardship of:

• Ecosystem Health: connecting physical, chemical, biological, and socioeconomic systems to address environmental and community vulnerabilities.
• Natural Resources: providing translational science for sustainable management of coastal socio-ecological systems, especially fisheries and aquaculture.
• Coastal and Ocean Processes: connecting global trends and local drivers to understand and address environmental change.

The Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center’s (ABC) mission is to develop superior shellfish brood stocks and support breeding programs using traditional and molecular approaches. ABC has three main components of operation: the Acuff hatchery, field, and nursery.

Position Summary

Research Technicians perform a variety of routine, technical, and administrative responsibilities in support of research at the institute. They perform duties such as the following: collecting specimens, preparing materials, and operating specialized lab equipment.

Assist in oyster hatchery work including hatchery and nursery work and participate in some field activities. Under supervision, Research Technicians provide administrative research support such as data integrity and collection of data resources. They may work independently or as a member of a team.

They work under general supervision, resolving most standard issues independently and referring complex issues to an upper-level manager. Technicians typically report to a program manager or director or may report to a senior level researcher.

The Research Technician role is most often the entry point to the Research job family or may be utilized for graduate interns or summer workers.

Conditions of Employment

• This is a restricted position, position is based on the continuation of funding.
• This is a non-exempt position eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the fair labor standards act.
• This position requires the flexibility to work over-time, including weekend hours, and holidays as scheduled to meet the business operational needs.
• Reliable transportation to travel between work sites for work as needed.
• Valid driver’s license required (May be required to drive a state vehicle).
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in an outdoor environment, as applicable.
• This position requires the ability to work comfortably and successfully in inclement weather conditions both in the field and on the water.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Some knowledge of basic lab safety.
• Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines under direct supervision.
• Ability to follow written and oral directions.
• Ability to maintain records, record data legibly, and conduct data entry with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in outdoor environments under hot, humid, wet, or cold conditions.
• Ability to travel, sometimes overnight, as needed.
• Ability to have flexible working hours, including occasional early starts or 10+ hour days as needed.
• Availability for occasional weekend work with prior notice.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in marine science, biology, aquaculture, or related field.
• Experience in aquaculture of shellfish.
• Experience working in inclement weather conditions with the proven ability to be comfortable in the field and on the water for extended periods of time.
• Demonstrated knowledge of sanitation techniques and laboratory & field work safety.
• Demonstrated knowledge of research and testing procedures and techniques.
• Ability to prepare samples and perform standard or routine lab testing.
• Demonstrated skills in operating and maintaining tools and equipment.
• Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines or under minimal supervision.
• Attention to detail in collection and entry of data.
• Ability to maintain records and record test results to a high degree of accuracy.
• Proficiency in a variety of software applications to include MS office with the ability to record data.
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in outdoor environments, as applicable.

Advertised Pay Range: up to $42,000

Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program). Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more.

EEO Statement
William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.