Shellfish Positions Available

Shellfish Hatchery Manager and Extension Specialist (Maryland, USA): The Morgan State University Patuxent Environmental and Aquatic Research Laboratory (MSU PEARL), part of the Division of Research and Economic Development, invites applications for a full-time Shellfish Hatchery Manager and Extension Specialist. Applications due by December 31, 2019. Employment will commence Winter/Early Spring 2020. The MSU PEARL is a 22,000 square foot laboratory located in St. Leonard, Maryland on the Patuxent River – a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The MSU PEARL has a shellfish aquaculture program that incorporates research, education, and outreach/extension activities.  Major responsibilities of the position are twofold: 1) managing a small research hatchery and algal production facility to support MSU PEARL oyster genomics research and other aquaculture research/education/outreach efforts (70%), and 2) serving as Maryland Sea Grant extension personnel to support the growing Maryland aquaculture industry through the transfer of scientific expertise, sharing knowledge of shellfish production and grow-out methods, public and stakeholder education, cultivation of new species, and other types of support (30%).  For more information and to apply for this position, please visit https://morgan.peopleadmin.com/postings/2772 (posted 12/4/19).

Tenure Track Faculty – Shellfish Aquaculture & Extension (Rhode Island, USA): The Department of Biology, Marine Biology and Environmental Science (BMBES) and the Center for Economic and Environmental Development (CEED) seek applications for an open-rank tenure-track position starting in Fall 2020.  We are looking for a dynamic educator to participate in ongoing strategic planning and to bring innovative approaches and subjects to our programs. The successful candidate will hold the position of BMBES Marine Biology Faculty and CEED Aquaculture Extension Specialist. Position responsibilities are divided into 50% teaching and 50% research and extension.  Review of applications will begin on December 15, 2019 and the position will remain open until filled.  Requirements: Ph.D. in a relevant discipline and evidence of undergraduate teaching experience are required. Candidates should have the interest, experience and desire to work with undergraduate students and interact with the regional shellfish community to solve problems and provide technical expertise to enhance shellfish aquaculture in the region. Candidates must possess excellent oral and written English communication skills.  Must include with your application: 1. Cover Letter, 2. Curriculum Vitae, 3. Statement of Research and Extension Philosophy, 4. Statement of Teaching Philosophy, and 5. Contact Information for three professional references. In your letters and statements, in addition to listing how your qualifications meet the requirements of the position, please include information about how you would be able to contribute to RWU's diversity, inclusivity, and equity goals.  For complete job description and how to apply, visit: https://www.was.org/WasEs/job/index/1080 (posted 11/29/19)

Shellfish Assessment Biologist (Oregon, USA):  The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's Marine Resources Program is recruiting for a Shellfish Assessment Biologist in Newport, Oregon.  This is a permanent position responsible for assisting the Shellfish and Estuary Assessment of Coastal Oregon (SEACOR) project which generates quantitative data to describe shellfish communities in selected bays and estuaries throughout Oregon.  The project has a total of 4 permanent staff who conduct research and assessment of Oregon’s marine / estuarine shellfish and estuarine habitat resources. A description of the position responsibilities and preferred experience is listed below.   Applications due by December 16, 2019 at 11:59pm PDT.   Salary Range: $2,561 - $3,117 per month.   To view the announcement and apply for the position, please follow the link to the Shellfish Biologist position on the ODFW website: https://oregon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/SOR_External_Career_Site/job/Newport-Southbeach-Annex---ODFW/Experimental-Biology-Aide--Shellfish-Assessment-Sampler-_REQ-26373 (posted 11/26/19).

Puget Sound Shellfish Manager (Washington, USA): The Department of Fish and Wildlife is recruiting to fill one full time, permanent, Puget Sound Shellfish Manager (WMS3) position. The position is located in the Fish Program and the duty station is either the Natural Resource Building located in Olympia, WA or the Port Townsend, WA district office.   Applications will be reviewed and interviews will be held as qualified applicants are identified, the position may be filled and the recruitment closed. Therefore, you are encouraged to submit your application materials as soon as possible.  The first review of applicants will begin on 12/02/19.  Full job description and how to apply. (posted 11/20/19)

Research Associate, Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (Florida, USA): This is a full time OPS Research Associate position with the Oyster Monitoring Program at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida.  The selected candidate will primarily assist with an oyster restoration project in Apalachicola Bay.  Duties include, but are not limited to: assisting with planning and preparations for the acoustic mapping, cultching, and sampling components of the project; implementing field and laboratory protocols; management of project data; compiling historic data from cooperating agencies to analyze historical trends in oyster populations; preparing tables and figures for reports and presentations; summarizing data for inclusion in quarterly progress reports to the granting agency; assisting with preparation of layman summaries of findings for management use, the final project report for the granting agency, and publications for peer review; interacting with multiple project partners on a frequent basis and maintaining professional working relationships; and assisting with field sampling and laboratory sample processing.  Minimum Qualifications are a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the physical or natural sciences and two years of experience.  Candidates with the following experience may be given preference: advanced degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in fisheries or marine science; previous professional (paid) experience leading marine research or monitoring projects; proficiency in analysis of fisheries data using SAS, R or other advanced statistical software; and proven ability to author layman summaries, technical reports, and/or peer-reviewed publications.  Closing date is 12/2/2019.  For more information and to apply go to: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/SAINT-PETERSBURG-OPS-RESEARCH-ASSOCIATE-FWC-77907477-1-1-FL-33701/608813400/ (posted 11/19/19)

Open Rank Faculty Tenure Track for Marine Biology/CEED Aquaculture Extension Specialist (Rhode Island, USA) - The Department of Biology, Marine Biology and Environmental Science (BMBES) and the Center for Economic and Environmental Development (CEED) seek applications for an open-rank tenure-track position starting in Fall 2020.  We are looking for a dynamic educator to participate in ongoing strategic planning and to bring innovative approaches and subjects to our programs. The successful candidate will hold the position of BMBES Marine Biology Faculty and CEED Aquaculture Extension Specialist. Position responsibilities are divided into 50% teaching and 50% research and extension.  To apply: https://rwu.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=118263 (posted 11/19/19)

Fish and Wildlife Biologist (Washington, USA):  The Department of Fish and Wildlife is recruiting to fill one (1) full-time, permanent F&W Biologist 3 within the Fish Program. This position is located in Port Townsend, WA.  The primary duty of this position is the management of public intertidal shellfish resources in Puget Sound (Regions 4 and 6) to provide recreational harvest opportunities to the citizens of the State of Washington and to meet the agency's co-management obligations. This position is responsible for overseeing and directing a team of biologists and technicians to assess the status of intertidal clam and oyster stocks on public beaches; to establish annual bivalve harvest quotas; to monitor and account for the recreational harvest of intertidal bivalves; to participate in harvest management planning processes with the treaty tribes; and to develop and implement seasons designed to target the state's share of shellfish resources in order to maximize recreational opportunity and economic benefit. This position also develops data management systems and analyzes data to inform harvest management decisions.   For the complete job posting, including the list of required qualifications and how to apply, visit: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/2585260/fw-biologist-3 (posted 10/7/19)

Coastal Aquaculture Specialist (North Carolina, USA): North Carolina Sea Grant is looking for a coastal aquaculture specialist to be stationed in Morehead City at NC State University’s Center for Marine Sciences and Technology.  Job description, requirements and other details, and how to apply are available in the online posting: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/122466.  If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workat[email protected]. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process, please call 919-515-3148.  Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. If highest degree is from an institution outside of the U.S., final candidates are required to have their degree equivalency verified at www.wes.org or equivalent service. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. (posted 9/24/19)

Hatchery Manager (Hawaii, USA): Pacific Hybreed seeks an experienced Hatchery Manager to manage the operation of this facility. Ideally, the applicant will be available in time to oversee the developmental phase, coordinating fabrication and packing of hatchery contents in Kingston, then setting up the hatchery facilities in Kona.  The Hatchery Manager position is a full-time position. The Hatchery Manager executes direction from the Pacific Hybreed leadership to establish an operating hatchery the National Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA) campus near Kona. The facility will incorporate existing infrastructure at NELHA (electricity, freshwater, seawater, dry lab) to culminate into a working hatchery network (up to three buildings & an outdoor space) to foster algae & shellfish aquaculture.  The Hatchery Manager will be responsible for the following: (1) allocate hatchery resources to expedite the Company’s breeding and production goals; (2) maintain all records relating to hatchery operations, including development and updating of proprietary operating procedures and inventories and absolute integrity of the Chief Science Officer’s protocol for maintaining stocks; (3) directly supervise and coordinate the activities of the hatchery technician(s); (4) carry out funded research on husbandry of shellfish produced in focused breeding programs; (5) maintain the hatchery consistent with the company’s hygiene and biosecurity standards; (6) ensure adequate initial supply of algae through management of the company’s algae production facility; and (7) obtain all permits and otherwise meet regulatory requirements for operation. We expect the Manager continually to improve understanding of scientific and technical information relevant to the position through attendance of scientific meetings, participation in publications of relevant research, and active collaboration with peers in the field.  The Hatchery Manager will meet with team members to finalize a work-flow plan for the project, through the completion of testing of the hatchery in Kona. The Hatchery Manager is expected to structure and manage the work to best source materials, execute construction & installation; hire contractors, if necessary, as well as to schedule the transport of certain equipment to Kona, including specifically the following: Interpret blueprints & vision of planned work to create a schedule of work-flow; Manage/work-alongside-of involved parties to adhere to developed work plan; Carry out construction with, or without, the aid of contractors – TBD by Pacific Hybreed leadership & skillset; Work closely with finance team to build, structure & abide by budget; Source & procure equipment in both Washington and Hawaii consistent with plan and budget; Ensure quality control on all aspects of build-out; Oversee transportation arrangements for the safe and timely arrival of equipment in Kona; Communicate effectively with NELHA staff; Develop and execute protocol for testing of the facility in HI; Consult with personal professional network when necessary; Act as overall project manager through commencement of operations.  Minimum education: BS degree in biological or marine sciences.  Minimum experience: Five years of experience in an aquaculture research or production facility and/or University research setting with focus on marine invertebrate culture; combine education/experience as substitute for minimum experience.  Preferred education: MS or higher in a natural science, preferably in marine sciences, genetics, aquaculture, aquatic or marine sciences, or environmental biology.  Preferred experience: Experience in a shellfish aquaculture research or production facility with experience in maintaining breeding stocks of shellfish.  Skills, Laboratory: Larval bivalve rearing through early seed stage of bivalves; Shellfish nutrition for all life stages of bivalves; General laboratory techniques including microscopy and maintenance of instrumentation; Maintenance of lab records; Skills, Other: Personal computer; software (Word, Excel, database, statistical); Plumbing, electrical, and general construction related to aquatic culture systems; Supervises: Leads one or more employees performing similar, technical work
Salary and Benefits: Annual salary will be commensurate with education and experience, but within the range of annual salaries reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for a first-line supervisor of aquaculture workers. The position comes with paid vacation and sick leave and healthcare benefits. Additionally, the company will provide an allowance for lodging for work done in Washington State and airfare from and to Kona as necessary for the development phase.  Application:  Send informal inquiries or a complete application to Jon Kroman ([email protected]). A complete application comprises a résumé, the names and address of three references, and a cover letter describing your particular qualifications and interest in this position. The applicant must be a US citizen or have legal authorization to work in the US. Position will remain open until filled. (posted 9/13/19)

Quantitative Genetics and Genomics of Shellfish (Hawaii, USA):  Pacific Hybreed, Inc. has an opening for a PhD-level Geneticist, who would work closely with company founders Drs. Dennis Hedgecock and Joth Davis to develop Pacific Hybreed’s business model, products, and intellectual property, which incorporate advances in crossbreeding and polyploidy.  Pacific Hybreed, Inc. (www.pacifichybreed.com) aims to transform the shellfish aquaculture industry by producing and domesticating genetically diverse, high-yielding, robust and resilient stocks, which are incapable of interbreeding with natural populations.  We are focusing on commercial opportunities associated with high value broodstock and seed for Pacific oysters, Manila clams, Kumamoto oysters, rock scallops, and other species.  The Geneticist will apply modern breeding and quantitative methods, including genome-based tools and technologies, to crossbreeding programs for diploid and polyploid populations of several bivalve mollusc species. In addition, the Geneticist will apply or develop efficient genotyping methods and platforms for confirming pedigrees and researching the genetic bases of complex traits, such as yield (survivorship and growth), disease resistance, resilience to ocean acidification and extreme temperatures, sex determination, and reproductive maturation, using QTL mapping and other methods.  The successful applicant will hold a PhD in Quantitative Genetics, Population Genetics, Plant/Animal Breeding, Statistical Genetics, Bioinformatics, or a related field and have aptitude for and interest in developing new methods, analyzing data, and synthesizing and communicating results. The Geneticist must be highly organized, with good database and analytical skills, be able to work independently, and be flexible and adaptable to the challenges presented by shellfish breeding and aquaculture. The applicant's willingness and enthusiasm for collaborative work in both research and production arenas, in a private sector setting, is critical. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to present their work at scientific meetings, to publish results, and to mentor effectively.  Send informal inquiries or a complete application to Dennis Hedgecock ([email protected]). A complete application comprises a curriculum vitae, examples of recent publications, the names and address of three references, and a cover letter describing your particular qualifications and interest in this position. The applicant must be a US citizen or have legal authorization to work in the US. Position will remain open until filled.  (posted 9/13/19)

Research Biologist - Molluscan Shellfish Aquaculture (Florida, USA): The University of Florida is currently seeking a Research Biologist investigating on molluscan shellfish genetics and germplasm preservation. The successful applicant will work majorly on hard clams and eastern oysters for their breeding programs, germplasm preservation, and related genetic analysis and aquaculture techniques.  Qualifications: M.S. degree in shellfish aquaculture or related disciplines, or B.S. plus two-year working experience;Hands-on experience with oyster or clam spawning, hatchery, and growout; Capability of biological assays and molecular techniques in laboratory; Capability of drafting reports and manuscripts. Salary/Benefits: Full time payment (40 hr/week) at pay rate of $15-18/hr depending on experiences, plus GatorGradCare health insurance. Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single pdf or word file via email to Dr. Huiping Yang, ([email protected]): Cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, Names and contact information of three professional references (posted 9/8/19)