CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM
POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant
REPORTS TO: Senior Research Scientist
EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Non-exempt
POSITION LOCATION: Northeast of Orlando, Florida
CLOSING DATE: December 6, 2024
RATE OF PAY: Annual $35,440; 40 hours/week; Benefits
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:
The primary responsibilities of this position are to radio track, monitor, assess and document the behavior of tagged manatees that are involved in the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership/Post-Release Monitoring Project (MRP). 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 also provide updates to the MRP through verbal and written reports, updating website and social media.
The position will be geographically located northeast of Orlando, Florida with the focused study area within the upper St. Johns River near Orange City, Volusia County and along the southeast coast of Florida. Travel to other areas of the state will be required based on animal movements or project needs. Weekend or holiday work maybe required based on animal emergency needs. The position will require travel extensively within Florida using a fleet or a personal vehicle. Private vehicle mileage will be reimbursed at the IRS standard rate out of designated living area.
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
- Use independent judgement and discretion in tracking/monitoring manatees that exhibit signs of distress for next steps
- 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
- Use independent judgment and discretion to determine what and when to communicate with other project partners
- Assist with additional tasks as required and/or assigned by the supervisor
EDUCATION /EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor Degree in Biology or related field (e.g. ecology, environmental science) and one year working in a research focused position OR Master Degree in Biology or related field (e.g. ecology, environmental science) required.
- Experience in launching boats, safely maneuvering in open-water conditions, as well as, reloading small vessels independently
- Ability to trailer vessels under intense traffic conditions
- Basic mechanical skills and ability to troubleshoot simple mechanical and electrical vehicle/vessel problems
- Proficient snorkeler with experience swimming in dark or turbid water
- Experienced kayaker with an ability to perform kayak re-entry in open water setting
- Proficient with Microsoft office suite and other computer data tracking software systems
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to lift approximately 50 pounds of equipment frequently
- Ability to work in intense environmental conditions heat, humidity, and rain frequently
- Ability to pass a swim test occasionally
- Ability to perform moderate impact physical activities such as kayaking and swimming frequently
- Ability to maintain a visual focus and scan the visual environment often
- Strong tolerance to working on a continuous motion-based water platform such as a boat frequently
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required. All job requirements are subject to change to reflect the evolving position requirements or to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to which will be required in this position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor/manager (within guidelines and compliance with Federal and State Laws). Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Company is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. Clearwater Marine Aquarium participates in E-Verify, please view the Notice of E-Verify Participation and the Notice of Right to Work.
