Aquaculture Biologist II - Oysters
Aquaculture Biologist II - Oysters
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Aquaculture Biologist II - Oysters.
Position Details
Location
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
703 East Beach Drive
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564
United States
Division
Thad Cochran Marine Aquacultural Center
Position Type
Staff
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
Yes
Salary Range
39,816.00 - 53,869.00
Pay Grade
E08
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to ApplicantsApplicants must be currentlyauthorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the needfor visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas(e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
This is a mid-level professional andtechnical scientific position focused on advanced marine aquaculture operationsand applied research. The incumbent independently performs hatchery, nursery,and grow-out activities with a focus on oyster production and supports ongoingresearch initiatives. Primary duties involve performing advanced aquacultureoperations, supporting applied research, and supervises lower-level staff inoyster hatchery, nursery, and grow-out systems. Responsibilities includeoverseeing daily operations, troubleshooting system performance, supervisinglower-level staff and interns, guiding experimental design and implementation,and contributing to data analysis and reporting. This position operates withlimited supervision and contributes scientific input for operationalimprovements and project planning. This position is affiliated with the ThadCochran Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs, MS, which is part of theGulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) at the Cedar Point campus of theUniversity of Southern Mississippi.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform and assist in planning advanced aquaculture tasks related to oyster hatchery, nursery, and grow-out systems to support production and research goals.
- Oversee daily aquaculture operations, ensuring proper system function, animal health, and culture conditions.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to system performance, water quality, and equipment functionality.
- Supervise and train lower-level staff, interns, and students in aquaculture procedures and safety protocols.
- Contribute to experimental design, implementation, data collection, and analysis in support of applied research projects.
- Coordinate with faculty, partners, and program staff to support project planning, scheduling, and logistics for aquaculture operations and research activities.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor's degreefrom an accredited college or university in Aquaculture, Marine Science,Biology, or a related field with at least four (4) years of professionalexperience in aquaculture is required. Alternatively, a master's degreein a related field with a minimum of three (3) years of experience isacceptable. Demonstrated experience in planning and performing advancedaquaculture tasks, troubleshooting systems, and supervising staff. Experiencewith experimental design, data collection, and analysis is also necessary tofulfill the job's research responsibilities. Valid Driver's License required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong understanding of aquaculture systems, animal husbandry, and water quality management, with the ability to troubleshoot system issues and identify corrective measures to maintain optimal culture conditions.
- Experience in research support, including data collection, documentation, and reporting.
- Demonstrated leadership and training skills with the ability to supervise and mentor junior staff.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and collaboration.
- Effective organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple production objectives and research projects.
- Physical ability to repeatedly lift and carry loads over 30 pounds and perform field and hatchery work in variable conditions.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of SouthernMississippi has remained dedicated to preparingstudents for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 studentsin Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across theMississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Weare a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one ofthe nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work inpolymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringinglanguage to children with communication disorders. We are also a nationalleader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enterfields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs suchas computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation ofbusiness leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages byproducing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition ofexcellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nationaccredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, ourstudent-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion andpersistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit [click to reveal website link].
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.