OPPORTUNITY: Marine Phytoplankton Specialist

This position is a key role in a grant-supported multi-state project focused on forecasting Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) along the Pacific Northwest Coast. The incumbent will be responsible for scientific sampling, laboratory processing, data analysis, and reporting to support the project's objectives. Some of the duties will include:

• Assist project leader in identifying research priorities, developing adaptive sampling strategies, and designing sample collection work.
• Develop a statistical sampling plan and manage logistical issues associated with sample collection, lab work, and data sharing.
• Collect water and phytoplankton samples from multiple locations along the northern Oregon coast.
• Process water and phytoplankton samples using multi-parameter meters and analytical equipment.
• Analyze phytoplankton samples under a compound microscope, identifying species and quantifying communities associated with HAB events.
• Compile necessary metadata to document sample collection and processing activities.
• Tabulate data records, generate maps, graphs, and tables summarizing sampling activities and collected data.
• Assist project leader in evaluating sample variability, selecting appropriate statistical tests, and conducting analyses.
• Write periodic project updates, memos, and electronic messages to share technical information and data with the project team.
• Prepare a final technical report summarizing sampling activities, results, statistical tests, and analytical findings.
• Disseminate results to resource managers, academic investigators, project partners, and coastal stakeholders.
• Present study results orally to staff, academic, school, or professional groups.
• Assist in coordinating and participating in internal and external meetings with stakeholders and project partners.

Working Conditions:

• Indoor and outdoor work, including information collation, computer work, meetings, and sample preparation.
• Frequent visits to sampling locations at irregular hours in all weather conditions.
• Primary sampling in intertidal areas on open coast or in bays; occasional work at sea on small boats in adverse weather.
• Must be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions; daily use of a vehicle required.
• Flexible work schedule with varying daily hours; work exceeding 40 hours/week requires prior approval.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree in Marine Fisheries, Oceanography, Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely-related Bachelor's degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of biological/ecological coursework; OR
• Three years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program.

Requested Skills:

We are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:

• Proficiency in developing and implementing field sampling techniques in marine environments.
• Training in classification and enumeration of harmful algae species in the Pacific Northwest.
• Experience in collecting scientific water samples and analyzing marine PNW HAB species.
• Knowledge of marine biotoxin analysis using ELISA or HPLC.
• Strong skills in data entry, management, and quality assurance.
• Ability to conduct statistical and geospatial analyses.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work independently.