Position: Fisheries TechnicianReports to: Kevin Fraley, Fisheries EcologistLocation: Fairbanks, AlaskaPosition Type: Full-time, June 3-August 31, 2024Expected travel: To and from fieldwork locations in Northwest Alaska (2 main 10+ day trips) and several multi-day float trips, from the Coldfoot, Alaska areaJob Summary: During the months of June, July and August of 2024, the technician will assist with field research supporting the study of fish ecology in lagoon ecosystems of Northwest Alaska (near Kotzebue) and freshwater rivers of the south side of the Brooks Range. Arctic lagoons represent important habitat for a diversity of fish species and sustain a vital subsistence fishery for coastal villages. Despite their ecological and cultural importance, very little research has been conducted on the fish communities in western Arctic lagoons. The technician will contribute to research which investigates key ecological features of fish communities in Arctic lagoons including: 1) seasonal fish community composition, 2) abundance and ecology of basal prey taxa, and possibly 3) fish movements and life history. Additionally, the technician will assist with fieldwork assessing heavy metal contaminant loads in subsistence and sport fishes in south-side rivers of the Brooks Range.The crew (crew leader, one technician, and possibly one other WCS or NPS employee) will stay in tents when conducting two ~12-day fieldwork stints in Northwest Alaska and several 3-6-day float trips in the Brooks Range. Major Responsibilities:- Organize, prepare, test, and help move gear in advance of field deployment.
- Perform field data collection including water quality parameters, fish ecology, benthic tow samples.
- Fish community sampling methods will include fyke nets, gill nets, beach seines, minnow trapping, kick netting, angling, and possibly electrofishing.
- Operate field equipment including small motor vessels, all-terrain vehicles, sonde multiparameter probe, zooplankton sampling equipment.
- Various office, lab, field, and outreach tasks in Fairbanks outside of remote fieldwork deployments.
- Organize, conduct maintenance, repair, and help move gear after fieldwork deployment.
- Applicants must be able to consistently exercise discretion and judgment and make decisions while working independently. Applicants must be enthusiastic, in excellent physical condition and willing to work for long hours in difficult field conditions. Applicants must be comfortable working in bear country. The ability to work independently and follow all safety protocols is vital.
Internal Qualification RequirementsDesired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Knowledge in marine and diadromous fish identification
• Ability to work in remote field setting with small crew for 5-12 days at a time.
• Ability to lift heavy objects and put in long, physical days of work.
• Knowledge and skills for implementing various fisheries techniques.
• Data management skills
• Ability to fly in small aircraft and travel by all-terrain vehicle and light motor vessel.
• Experience working with Alaska Native or other Indigenous communities.
Minimum Requirements:
• 2 years of post-secondary education in fisheries, ecology, or natural resources
• Familiarity with the aquatic fauna of Arctic Alaska
Application Process:
Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications should apply via the link below by February 29, 2024.
WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a person’s membership in one of these protected categories in areas such as recruitment, selection, job assignment, supervision, training, promotions, job grading, transfers, termination, compensation, benefits, educational opportunities, WCS sponsored recreational activities and facilities.
Note that the salary offer will reflect the selected candidate’s individual experiences, skills and qualifications, internal equity, work location and country of work.