Fisheries Technician

Summary

Under the supervision of a Fisheries Biologist or Senior Fisheries Biologist, the Fisheries Technician supplies technical assistance in accurately gathering, recording, programming and statistically analyzing data pertaining to fisheries research, culture and/or management. Operate, maintain, repair, and construct various types of sampling data analysis equipment and fish culture equipment. Below is a short summary of each type of Technician position:

POSITION: Fisheries Technician - Research

LOCATION: OFRL, Norman, OK

Research Technician – Assists the biologist with scientific research through the collection, entry, and analysis of data. Uses the scientific method as it relates to research and shows a basic understanding of the common aspects of fisheries science (e.g., population dynamics such as age/growth, mortality, abundance measurements, and size distribution). Develop new skills as needed for research (e.g., tagging, sex ID, processing aging structures, diet ID). Prior research experience, experience with the dissemination of research through the peer review process and/or technical presentations, and familiarity with data analysis programs (e.g., R or Python) is preferred.

Job Duties May Include

Conduct fish population surveys for research or management purposes using various sampling gear.

Perform hatchery maintenance work which includes equipment maintenance and minor repair, maintenance of grounds, pond repair, painting, minor road repair, the operation of simple farm machinery.

Perform general fish culture duties which include feeding fish, fertilizing ponds, pond preparation and seeding, harvesting and moving fish.

Use routine laboratory procedures to analyze field and hatchery collections.

Apply fish culture techniques in transporting and stocking fish.

Maintain all field, laboratory, and office equipment in good operating condition.

Maintain and constructs various types of equipment.

Assist supervisor in analysis and interpretation of data.

Assist in planning projects, budgets, schedules, etc. Prepare weekly, monthly, or annual reports as required.

Disseminate technical information on a variety of topics through newspapers, radio, television, speaking engagements, instructional clinics, etc. as assigned.

Requires reasonable expertise in using various machinery, tools, and equipment including fisheries sampling equipment, fish hauling equipment, water quality sampling equipment, laboratory equipment, hand and power tools, farm equipment and personal computers.

May Be Required To Perform Additional Duties As Assigned.

Must have the ability to:

• Operate boats, motor vehicles, lawn mowers, tractors, and ATVs with various attachments.
• Operate and use firearms, cutting torch, and welding equipment.
• Lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds for a distance of 100 yards.
• Ability to push / pull a minimum of 50 pounds to hook up trailers, load boats, and various other equipment.
• Walk and jog over rough terrain for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to swim.
• Work alone in remote areas.
• Endure various extremes of outdoor weather conditions.
• Work extended hours, weekends, and stay overnight out of town.
• Handle wild animals in live and dead condition, including field dressing wild game.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships, work independently, and be professional and courteous with the public and other agencies.
• Communicate clearly and effectively in public speaking situations and be able to express oneself clearly and concisely in writing.
• Operate and use small and handheld equipment and supplies.
• Use personal computer and various office equipment.
• Operate and use field traps, survey gear, and lab equipment.
• Conduct day / night audio and visual surveys.
  
  

Requirements

Education: Associate degree or a minimum 2 years college to include course work in Aquatic Resource Management or closely related field. Four years’ experience in a Fisheries Conservation Technician position may substitute for education requirements.

• To be considered for this position, you must attach a copy of your transcript to this application. Applications without an attached transcript will not be considered. **
  
  

Experience: One-year related experience is required. A total of five years’ experience is required in lieu of education requirement. A completed bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management with an emphasis in Aquatic Resource Management or related field may substitute for the experience requirement.

Knowledge and Skills: Training or experience in mechanical skills and technical writing is preferred. May be required to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Must be skilled in interpersonal relations and maintain good working relationships with fellow employees and the public.