Coral Propagation and Culture Technician I

About the role

The Coral Propagation and Culture Technician I will work in the NOAA Galveston Deep Sea Coral Laboratory, supporting the Population and Ecosystems Monitoring Division. Reporting to the Program Manager and aquaculture staff, the technician will handle daily animal husbandry, water‑quality monitoring, data management, and public outreach.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain and monitor recirculating coral culture systems, reporting any malfunctions.
• Provide routine care for live coral specimens, including tank setup, cleaning, and health assessments.
• Culture live foods such as Artemia, rotifers, and algae and feed corals.
• Record and report water‑quality and coral health data; enter information using MDBC tools.
• Complete required safety training and adhere to laboratory safety protocols.
• Participate in public outreach events, open houses, and educational workshops.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in marine sciences or related field.
• At least 2 years experience maintaining coral culture systems; saltwater aquarium experience preferred.
• Knowledge of water‑quality parameters, aquaculture practices, basic plumbing, carpentry, and facility maintenance.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions, lift 50 lb, and work in temperatures near 40 °F.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license and strong written/oral communication skills.

Required skills

• Coral culture system maintenance
• Water‑quality monitoring
• Live‑food culturing (Artemia, rotifers, algae)
• Data entry using MDBC applications
• Laboratory safety procedures (MSDS, PPE, fire safety)
• Basic plumbing and carpentry

What we offer

• Negotiable hourly rate (full‑time)
• Health and dental insurance
• Vacation, sick and holiday benefits
• Opportunities for public outreach and professional development