Puget Sound Restoration Fund is seeking a full time Microalgae Specialist at the Kenneth K Chew center for Shellfish Research and Restoration in Port Orchard, WA. Compensation is $16.00 per hour with health benefits. This is a one-year position with potential for extension if funding is available.
Puget Sound Restoration Fund
Puget Sound Restoration Fund is a non- profit organization dedicated to restoring marine habitat, water quality and native species in Puget Sound through tangible, on-the-ground projects. PSRF operates the Kenneth K Chew Center for Shellfish Research and Restoration in collaboration with NOAA at the Manchester Research Station. The Chew Center is focused on the production of Olympia oysters, Pinto abalone, and Kelp for restoration purposes. Additionally the Chew Center works with scientists in the region to conduct research advancing restoration and sustainable aquaculture.
Microalgae Specialist
The microalgae specialist will be responsible for growing and maintaining algae cultures to support restoration goals at the Kenneth K Chew Center for shellfish research and restoration. The Chew Center produces over 1,200 liters of dense microalgae per day in a 800 ft2 greenhouse year-round to feed Olympia oyster larvae and seed in support of our ongoing work restoring this species. Additionally, microalgae is utilized for research projects on geoduck, sea cucumbers, cockles and other marine organisms. The Chew Center also produces benthic diatoms for juvenile Pinto abalone. The microalgae specialist will spend approximately 75% of time on the primary duties outlined below. Approximately 25% of time will be spent participating in and assisting with all other projects and activities at the Chew Center. The Microalgae Specialist will work with a small team at the Chew Center and report to the Hatchery Manager.
Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:
● Maintaining stock cultures
● Preparing sterile media
● Maintaining carboy culture
● Producing harvest scale quantities of algae through both bag and tube systems
● Distributing algae for feeding
● Maintaining equipment and areas dedicated to algae culture
The microalgae specialist will also assist with other hatchery tasks approximately 25% of the time, when demand for algae is reduced. These tasks include but are not limited to:
● Cleaning filters and maintaining the seawater systems
● Caring for Olympia oyster Broodstock, larvae, and seed
● Caring for Pinto abalone Broodstock, larvae and setters
● Assisting with research projects at the Chew Center
● Assisting with plumbing and construction projects that support animal husbandry and the Chew Center
● Assisting with all other projects at the Chew Center
Required knowledge, skills and abilities:
● A bachelor’s degree in marine science, biology or other related field
● Experience with sterile technique
● Laboratory experience
● Experience culturing microalgae is prefered
● Experience with shellfish aquaculture is prefered
● Ability to work in a fast paced dynamic environment
● Excellent communication skills
● Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
● Ability to operate in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment that is often wet and cold, serving outdoors in all weather conditions.
● Comfort with basic tools
● Ability to work occasional night and weekend shifts
● Must have a demonstrated commitment to the mission of PSRF