OPS Research Associate

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute – Harmful Algal Blooms

OPS Research Associate (Two Positions)

Saint Petersburg, Florida - $26 per hour

The Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) group of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)-Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) in St. Petersburg, FL, invites applications for two full-time Other Personnel Service (OPS) Research Associate positions to provide technical support to ongoing HAB monitoring, research, and event response within the Microscopy Program. 

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

Both positions will involve phytoplankton identification, microscopy, laboratory support, and data management. One position expects already acquired expertise in the identification of HAB taxa; the other position expects already acquired expertise in the identification of phytoplankton taxa more broadly. Each role involves independent and collaborative work across multiple program areas, with emphasis on accuracy, consistency, and adherence to established protocols. Responsibilities of the positions include the following:

Support the HAB monitoring program by working independently to identify HAB species and with other lab members of the taxonomy laboratory to prioritize daily tasks and ensure that sample analysis is conducted by specified deadlines; tasks include receiving and logging samples into databases; identifying and enumerating marine and estuarine phytoplankton species collected in live and preserved samples; entering data into databases; learning new taxa and taxonomic methodologies; and communicating data results internally and externally.

Support HAB monitoring and research by conducting in depth taxonomic identification as part of targeted research efforts; this includes assisting and/or leading method development and refinement for light and/or electron microscopy (EM) microalgae studies, fostering the learning and teaching of phytoplankton taxonomic advancements, and supporting EM efforts, including sample preparation and analysis.

Assist HAB monitoring and research by participating in research and event response efforts by analyzing and sharing scientific data internally and externally. This includes receiving/providing training on phytoplankton identification, including methods of sampling and analysis, as well as database use, technical report writing, proofing data and reports, and sharing reports with target audiences.

Assist HAB monitoring and research by collaborating on database-related tasks, assisting with directed assignments as needed, and contributing to advancing internal and external reporting strategies. Also, provide support to the volunteer program by assisting with communications in aiding strategic recruitment and retention, sharing relevant information, as well as maintaining accurate records of microscopy, training, database, and volunteer-related activities.

Update supervisor regularly on work progress and any issues. The employee will be open to the possibility of supervising assigned staff within the microscopy program, establishing and coordinating job duties.

Collaboration with other researchers and participation in other Harmful Algal Bloom Program activities, such as field work and outreach, is expected as requested.