Research Technician I–II

About the role

The Research Technician I or II will support the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Group at the Harte Research Institute, contributing to field and laboratory studies on oyster reefs and coastal habitats.

Key responsibilities

• Process samples in the laboratory, including sorting benthic fauna, analyzing oyster tissue, filtering water, and preparing sediments for stable isotope analysis.
• Participate in field research 1‑2 days per week, collecting water and biological samples from boats or shoreline and operating university vehicles.
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment, track inventory, and coordinate ordering of consumables.
• Support educational outreach events, prepare outreach materials, and assist with laboratory tours and internal reporting.

Required profile

• High school diploma or GED.
• For Technician I: 2 years of related field experience; for Technician II: 3 years.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel and work non‑standard hours.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lb and work in variable outdoor conditions.

Required skills

• Sample processing and laboratory techniques (sorting fauna, tissue analysis, water filtration).
• Identification of invertebrates using dichotomous keys.
• Operation of small vessels and university vehicles.
• Use of Microsoft Excel for data entry and quality control.
• Current SCUBA diving certification (preferred).