Research Specialist (National Park Service)
This is a grant funded, limited term position with the possibility of extension if funding continues. Current funding is available for 12 months. Extension is contingent upon funding availability.
The successful candidate will participate in collecting field data using standardized and peer-reviewed protocols and contribute to the aquatic resource monitoring of national parks to assess status and trends of resource conditions. This includes:
1) Identification of fish species, aquatic invertebrates, and aquatic plants
2) Measuring abundance or condition of these taxa
3) Collection of physical habitat or water quality data
4) Use of specialized equipment such as flow meters, water quality meters, electrofishing equipment, etc.
5) Equipment calibration, maintenance and repair
6) Travel throughout the Midwest for several consecutive days.
Data entry using Access database software and performing data quality assurance is an important function of this position in order to maintain long-term datasets that provide trend assessments. Successful candidates may also be asked to summarize data using basic statistical functions (such as means and standard errors), create graphs and tables for reports, and contribute to report writing. The Research Specialist may also supervise student workers in the field. The Research Specialist will receive additional on-the-job training as needed for required activities (e.g., safe boat operation, electrofishing techniques, plant, invertebrate and fish identification and sampling)
This position will include extensive travel to multiple national parks for several consecutive days, conduct fieldwork in all weather conditions, and wade in streams, drive canoe and/or drive a boat. The selected candidate should possess a demonstrated ability to accurately and efficiently collect aquatic field data (fish/invertebrates/water quality) both independently and in a team setting and a good understanding of the scientific process and knowledge of freshwater aquatic systems.
Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense.
Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity employer.