"RF Fisheries Technicians (2)"

RF Fisheries Technicians (2)

Description of Department:

These full-time Field Technician positions are based at our aquatic conservation laboratory at SUNY Oswego, located on the shores of Lake Ontario. Our lab operates in close partnership with a network of key state and federal agencies, including the Lake Ontario Biological Station, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and The Nature Conservancy. This collaborative environment provides unique opportunities for impactful research and professional growth. The roles will primarily involve supporting aquatic biologists in field operations across diverse and critical ecosystems, including Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and tributaries to the St. Lawrence River.

The Research Foundation (RF) at the State University of New York at Oswego invites applications for a full-time RF Fisheries Technicians (2) to join our team. This is a critical role for our rapidly developing lab, offering an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful conservation efforts.

While this position is affiliated with the SUNY Oswego campus, it is a Research Foundation position, not a New York State position.

Posting Date: October 9, 2025

Review Date: Review of applications will begin two weeks after posting the job and will continue until the position is filled.

Compensation: $19-$22 per hour, full-time 37.5 hours per week, $37,050 - $42,900.

Benefit Information: The Research Foundation for SUNY provides an excellent benefit package. Click here for more information.

Date of Appointment: As soon as possible

Description of Responsibilities:

The Field Technicians (2) will be essential members of our research team, responsible for performing and assisting with a wide range of tasks to ensure the successful execution of time-sensitive field research operations. Key responsibilities include supporting the planning and execution of field sampling campaigns, primarily focused on native fish reproduction during early spring and late fall. This involves deploying and retrieving specialized equipment, such as egg and larval traps, as well as conducting efficient sample collection and initial processing to maintain sample integrity. The technician will also support field-based experiments, assist with the maintenance and organization of all field equipment, and work collaboratively with aquatic biologists and partners from state and federal agencies, adhering strictly to all safety protocols.

SUNY Oswego works continuously to create an inclusive environment which respects, embraces, and promotes cultural safety, belonging, civil discourse, cultural humility, and other values and goals outlined in SUNY Oswego's Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Plan. As such, the incumbent is expected to contribute to these efforts and possess communication and interpersonal skills necessary to engage effectively with an increasingly diverse community of students and colleagues.

Job Requirements:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Fisheries Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience in aquatic field research.
• Demonstrated experience with common aquatic sampling techniques, such as electrofishing, netting (gill nets, trap nets, seines), or deployment of specialized gear.
• Experience with boat operation (up to 26 ft) and trailering.
• Understanding and practical experience with field safety protocols.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and follow instructions.
• Strong attention to detail in data collection and sample handling.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in challenging outdoor conditions (e.g., lifting equipment, working in adverse weather).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working on Great Lakes aquatic ecosystems.
• Basic proficiency in data entry and organization.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., first aid, boat safety).
• Familiarity with fish identification, particularly native species.