Freshwater Ecology Field Technician/Intern in Clear Lake

TITLE: Freshwater Ecology Field Technician/Intern

CLASSIFICATION: Temporary/Seasonal Position

AGENCY: Environmental Institute of Houston

WEBSITE: http://www.eih.uhcl.edu

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Environmental Protection Agency is conducting a National Rivers and Streams Assessment to assess the condition of the nation’s flowing waters.  The Environmental Institute of Houston at the University of Houston-Clear Lake has been contracted to sample 64 sites across Texas.

We are currently recruiting two to four positions to assist with field sampling from May 1, 2014 to August 31, 2014; flexible dates depending upon school schedule.  All work is conducted in wadeable and boatable rivers and streams across the state.  Applicants will assist in all forms of data collection including physical habitat surveys, water quality assessment and biological collections.

Ideal candidates will have previous field experience and be willing to work in a variety of challenging physical conditions.  This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable field experience in all aspects of physical and biological stream assessment.  At each site, we assess physical habitat, measure stream flow, collect water samples, sample aquatic invertebrates and periphyton, quantify fish assemblage and collect fish tissue samples.

LOCATION:

Houston, TX – Statewide travel

SALARY:

$1,260/month (full-time)

QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants should be pursuing or possess a Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management, fisheries ecology, biology, environmental science or closely related field.  A strong interest in stream ecology and aquatic resource management is desired.  Previous field work experience is a plus but not required.  Applicants must be willing to travel sites located statewide.

Required

·       Travel up to 10 days at a time

·       Work long hours (10+) in the field in adverse conditions

·       Be in good physical condition and able to lift 50 lbs

·       Ability to traverse steep and rough terrain

·       Ability to learn new skills and techniques quickly and apply those skills efficiently

·       Comfortable working from a boat, canoe or kayak

·       Must possess a positive attitude, be self-motivated and willing to work independently and as a member of a team

Preferred

·       Previous scientific data collection

·       Experience conducting physical habitat surveys, water quality collection and measuring flow in stream systems

·       Aquatic invertebrate collection and preservation

·       Fish sampling techniques including boat and backpack electrofishing and seining

·       Texas freshwater fish ID skills

***Housing not provided***

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume with three references to Jenny Oakley

START DATE:

May 1, 2014

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

April 1, 2014

CONTACT PERSON:

Jenny Oakley

PHONE:

281-283-3950

EMAIL:

oakley@uhcl.edu