The Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center’s (ABC) mission is to develop superior shellfish brood stocks and support breeding programs using traditional and molecular approaches. ABC has four main components of operation: hatchery, nursery, field and laboratory.
Position Summary
Oyster Aquaculture Training Program participants will assist in all oyster aquaculture operations of ABC. Specific rotations will be ABC hatchery operations performed within the Acuff Center for Aquaculture, at ABC’s land-based nursery, at four field sites and in the ABC flow cytometry laboratory.
Participants will have opportunities to work with additional VIMS (Virginia Institute of Marine Science) researchers and will also have the opportunity and are encouraged to participate in externships/work experiences with other bivalve hatcheries and commercial aquaculture farms.
Duties will also include:
- Broodstock maintenance within the Acuff Center will include oyster spawning and larval rearing, setting of oyster larvae and algal culture
- Husbandry of oyster seed will occur at the VIMS land-based nursery
- Field work on all ABC biological material will be performed at field sites (local and up to 4 hours away)
- Basket/bag deployment, density reduction, monitoring of grow out conditions, sampling etc.
- Maintenance of hatchery and field equipment, building hatchery and field equipment
- Assistance with laboratory activities including flow cytometry, sampling for programmatic work and externally funded projects
Required Qualifications
EDUCATION:
- High School graduate/equivalent, with experience in biology and biological processes not limited to course work (may include prior work experiences)
COMPETENCIES/EXPERIENCE:
- Basic understanding of biology as it pertains to animals living in freshwater or marine systems
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, follow written and oral instructions with strict attention to detail and show initiative, self-starter
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Ability to work in inclement weather conditions and perform comfortably in the field and on the water
- Experience in aquaculture or marine biology
Preferred Qualifications
EDUCATION:
- Associate degree or the equivalent combination of education and / or experience.
EXPERIENCE:
- Hands-on experience in marine biology, fish or shellfish aquaculture not limited to course work
- Experience working in a laboratory setting
- Experience maintaining aquarium systems (fresh water or salt water)
- Experience working in inclement weather conditions with proven ability to be comfortable in the field and on the water
Conditions of Employment
- This is a non-exempt position eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the fair labor standards act. Occasional long hours and regular weekend hours, including during holidays, is expected and required throughout the program.
- This position is a temporary (hourly) position not to exceed 6 months. End date may be flexible if program participant obtains employment just prior to program finishing.
- All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed on average 29 hours per week, over the course of a twelve-month period beginning May 1 each year
- Valid driver’s license needs to be maintained during employment (May be required to drive a state vehicle)
- Ability to successfully perform duties in the field and on the water and perform duties in all weather conditions
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs
Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none
Advertised Pay Range: $16.50 per hour
Location: VIMS, Gloucester
Job Close Date: 01/10/2024
