Seasonal Water Quality and Habitat Research Technician

Overview

Seasonal Water Quality and Habitat Research Technician at Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery – Nantucket. The Natural Resources Department is seeking a motivated Water Quality and Habitat Research Technician to join our hatchery team at the Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery. This internship is an educational opportunity to gain hands-on experience in water quality sampling and analysis, habitat monitoring, phytoplankton identification, assist with related research projects, and participate in educational outreach.

Starting Hourly Rate: $23.00 per hour

Hours per Week: 40

Start Date:

May 2026 - TBD

(Please note that the advertised hourly pay rate may increase by $2 per hour, pending approval at the Annual Town Meeting.)

The Natural Resources Department’s hatchery facility is located on Brant Point, Nantucket where hundreds of millions of shellfish are produced seasonally for various restoration projects. Apart from producing shellfish like bay scallops, quahogs, and oysters, the Hatchery team is also involved in field operations and research projects on Island.

This internship is educational and pertains to the field of marine science with a focus on water quality and habitat monitoring. The candidate will work primarily with the Water Resources Specialist and will be exposed to tasks related to water quality in the field, on special projects, and around the facility.

• Position prioritizes assisting with the coordination, preparation, and shipping logistics surrounding routine sampling events.
• Conduct water sampling and monitoring of harbors, ponds, and streams
• Assist with NRD’s Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring Program and outreach.
• Use and maintenance of water quality technical equipment
• Pond boat post-use cleaning and refueling
• Assist with habitat related monitoring, research, or projects
• Assist with administrative tasks, public relations (regarding water quality), social media, and preparing informational and educational material
• Assistance may be requested with water quality adjacent tasks involving hatchery, field work or assisting scientific dive surveys.
• Assist the shell technician with shell recycling, processing and container cleaning
• Includes early morning field work, occasional rotational night feedings, and alternating weekend work
• Data entry and basic analysis
• Help with public hatchery tours and various community outreach activities

• A degree or background in marine science, environmental science, and/or aquaculture
• Must be able to handle a flexible schedule that includes some early morning start times (5 - 6 AM), occasional weekend hours, and harsh environments
• Familiar with microscopes, basic laboratory techniques, and sampling equipment
• SCUBA Certification is highly preferred
• Comfortable and confident swimming/snorkeling for work in marine environments
• Excellent record keeping skills and organization
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and phone/email
• Positive attitude and willingness to work in all weather conditions
• Team player mentality with ability to work independently

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and comfortable driving pick-up trucks on small roads
• Must obtain an MA Boating certificate before starting date

Apply Here