Position summary
In 2014, Puget Sound Restoration Fund (PSRF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) established the “Kenneth K. Chew Center for Shellfish Research and Restoration,” a facility dedicated to research and restoration of native and other marine species. The facility is housed at NOAA’s Manchester Research Station on the Kitsap Peninsula and operated by PSRF. Our near-term collaborative research goals are to:
• Culture genetically-diverse native oysters and preserve local populations.
• Expand the ability to restore native shellfish habitat in the Pacific Northwest.
• Advance the technology and practices of the shellfish aquaculture industry.
• Understand the impacts of ocean acidification on shellfish and other marine life.
• Improve monitoring to better predict changes in seawater chemistry that may affect shellfish hatchery operations.
The Shellfish Restoration Hatchery Technician will assist with all aspects of hatchery production and research on a diversity of species including Olympia oysters (Ostrea lurida), pinto abalone (Haliotis kamtschatkana), kelp (various species), giant red sea cucumbers (Parastichopus californicus), and cockles (Clinocardium nuttallii) including animal husbandry, microalgae culture, fieldwork, data collection and management, and facilities maintenance. The technician reports to the Hatchery Director.
Position responsibilities
> Provide support for animal husbandry and kelp propagation
• Provide daily maintenance of Olympia oyster and pinto abalone broodstock, larval, post-set and seed culture systems
• Assist with induced spawns of multiple species
• Assist with bull kelp propagation for use in enhancement trials
• Keep accurate records of larval, post-set and seed growth, survival, and culture conditions
• Assist with all aspects of microalgae culture including monitoring cultures, sterile transfers and media preparation.
> Maintain facilities and operational systems
• Regularly clean/repair/replace all components of water treatment system (filters, pumps, heaters, heat exchangers) and plumbing
• Assist in construction of components of animal, microalgae and macroalgal culture systems
– Maintain all equipment in good working condition
• Assist researchers with data collection and management
• Participate in and support field projects
Qualifications
• Applicants must be between the age of 18-25 on their first day of service (age restrictions are based on legislative mandate, and do not apply to Gulf War Era II Veterans, dependents, or active duty reservists, or those with a mental or sensory disability).
• Per legislative mandate, priority will be given to Washington state residents.
• Applicants must be eligible for AmeriCorps, and able to submit documentation of one of the following citizenship statuses: U.S. Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident Alien. Learn more about AmeriCorps eligibility on the WCC website.
• A bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science or related field is desired. Applicants should have a strong interest in local marine ecosystems, environmental restoration and conservation, shellfish biology, sustainable aquaculture, and natural resources.
• Applicants must be comfortable operating basic carpentry and plumbing tools.
• This position requires occasional weekend and late-night shifts.
Schedule
This is an 11-month AmeriCorps position starting October 5, 2020, and ending September 11, 2021. Members are expected to serve 40 hours over four or five days each week.
WCC AmeriCorps member benefits
Members serving 11 months will receive a $1,100 biweekly living stipend, in addition to the AmeriCorps Education Award ($6,195) upon successful completion of term. Basic health insurance and qualified loan forbearance is available. As AmeriCorps members, IPs participate in WCC’s high quality training program featuring professionally taught, career-transferable courses. Read more about training opportunities and a full list of benefits on the WCC website.
Application process
Please complete both required steps:
1. Submit WCC online application accessible from the WCC website (select this IP position on application).
a. Note: The WCC online application includes space to enter references; please enter three references when prompted. The reference section will also prompt returning WCC members to enter their prior WCC Supervisor and Coordinator as references.
2. Email a resume (or CV) and cover letter to Ryan Crim at ryan@restorationfund.org by July 26, 2020, for priority review.
About WCC and AmeriCorps
Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) is an AmeriCorps program that creates future leaders through community involvement and mentorship. The program supports more than 350 members and experienced staff statewide who restore critical habitat, build trails, lead volunteers, educate youth, and respond to local and national disasters.
AmeriCorps is a network of local, state, and national service programs that connects over 70,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet community needs in education, the environment, public safety, health, and homeland security. Learn more on the WCC website.