This is mid-level technical work in recirculating aquaculture systems with field work required. Characteristic duties include operation and maintenance of recirculating aquaculture systems. Additional duties include the collection, preparation, and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment, specimens, and data. The incumbent works with shellfish, finfish, algae and other marine species to rear larvae and seed for stock enhancement and commercial scale grow out. Operations include broodstock management, larval husbandry, health management and operation of recirculating aquaculture systems. Work is performed under the general supervision of a biologist, scientist or an administrative or technical superior. Interaction with faculty, staff and students on various projects will be required. This is a full-time position that includes a full benefits package. The position will be located at the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs, MS. The Center is part of the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL), a unit of the University of Southern Mississippi. The Center is located on the Cedar Point campus of GCRL, a 225-acre site devoted primarily to marine aquaculture. The Center currently includes approximately 100,000 square feet of culture space devoted to live feeds, broodstock, hatchery, nursery/growout, laboratory, experimental, and analytical facilities.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

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  Performs custodial and maintenance activities of physical facilities, structures, grounds, aquaculture tanks, mechanical and water systems, water control structures and equipment.
• Assists in the propagation and rearing of aquatic species. Performs various sampling activities including counting, sorting, measuring, weighing, and grading of samples.
• Provides detailed records and data entry for monitoring parameters and production data to support specific research or management projects.
• Participates in informational and educational outreach programs.
• Follows standard operating procedures and performs other duties as assigned.

• Proficient use of personal computers and software for word processing, presentation development, databases, and statistical applications.
• Ability to take detailed directions and work independently or as a team member.
• Ability to be proactive, resourceful and self-motivated.
• Demonstrate excellent organization and time management skills.
• Proficient interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal form.
• Ability to repeatedly lift and carry weights more than 30 lbs.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a comprehensive public research institution delivering transformative programs on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Founded in 1910, USM is one of only 131 universities in the nation to earn the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education's "R1: Doctoral Universities - Very high research activity" designation, and its robust research enterprise includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and large event venue safety and security, among others. USM is also one of only 37 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music. As an economic driver, USM generates an annual economic impact of more than $600 million across the state. USM welcomes a diverse student body of more than 14,000, representing 71 countries, all 50 states, and every county in Mississippi. USM students have collected four Truman Scholarships and 37 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, while also leading Mississippi with 27 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists. Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 Division I sports sponsored by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.