Temporary Biological Science Research Technician

Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 1

Position Information

Department:
Fisheries and Wildlife (AFW)

Appointment Type:
Temporary Staff

Employment Category:
Temporary

Job Summary:

This recruitment will be used to fill two full‑time Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 1 positions for the Fisheries & Wildlife at Oregon State University (OSU). The role will assist in scientific research in the Columbia River basin (Southwestern Washington, Northern & Eastern Oregon, and Southwestern Idaho). This project is a high‑resolution, watershed level mercury monitoring effort to characterize spatiotemporal trends in mercury levels, using dragonfly larvae (Anisoptera) as biosentinels.

• Field work in remote areas, up to 8 days at a time, including camping overnight. Daily sampling trips to multiple sites on private and public wetlands, ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers.
• Netting and collecting dragonfly larvae, collecting water and soil samples, and recording in situ water chemistry and habitat observations.
• Laboratory work in Corvallis: processing soil and dragonfly samples, calibrating and maintaining equipment.
• Driving university motorpool vehicle to and from field sites.
• Work collaboratively with team members to ensure a safe and respectful work environment.
• Assist with educational events for children and adults.

• Two years of college‑level courses in Fisheries and Wildlife, Ecology, Biology, Zoology, or related field; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Strong commitment to safety and attention to detail.
• Ability to hike, wade in uneven terrain, and work in challenging weather conditions; ability to use a dipnet for several hours a day.
• Ability to work independently with guidance and collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Ability to safely navigate in remote areas using a GPS.
• Demonstrated ability to work productively and cooperatively in a team environment.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive a vehicle; motor vehicle history check required.
• Background check compliance with critical or security‑sensitive position requirements.

• Experience doing fieldwork in wetlands.
• Experience identifying aquatic macroinvertebrates.
• Experience doing laboratory work, chemistry preferred.
• Experience in environmental education and outreach.
• Interest in aquatic macroinvertebrates, freshwater ecology, and ecotoxicology.
• CPR / First Aid certification.

OSU offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible positions, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid leave, tuition reduction benefits, and robust work‑life programs. Benefit details can be viewed at the OSU benefits website.

Working conditions include remote fieldwork in difficult terrain and weather; all field gear is provided except for camping gear. The position requires reporting to Corvallis, Oregon for the 4.5‑month term. Hospital proximity details and housing are not provided.

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

OSU is an EEO employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

Contact:
Cailin Sinclair, cailin.sinclair.

Background Checks:
Detailed information can be found on OSU’s Background Checks website. For candidates, visit the for candidates section. For questions, contact employee.relations.

Application Instructions:
Applications reviewed based on employment profile, education, work history, and requested documentation. Resumes are not accepted at application stage. Cover letters optional but not used for evaluation. Equivalent required experience based on full‑time equivalent (40 hrs/week). Volunteer experience should be noted in Employment History.