Careers @ MSU

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.

Unit Position Summary

Technician will assist in ongoing field and experimental lake sturgeon evolutionary ecology research. Field work will include collection of adult biological and behavioral data and annual census information on the Upper Black River. Technician will collect physical stream data, conduct larval lake sturgeon and macroinvertebrate drift collections, juvenile lake sturgeon census, and assist with experimental assessment of factors affecting larval mortality and adult reproductive success. Hatchery work will include rearing lake sturgeon from egg, larval, and juvenile life stages using standard aquaculture methodology.

Technician will be responsible for maintaining adult and larval biological data, hatchery, and water quality data. Technician may work during daylight and night hours and in inclement weather. Opportunities exist to conduct individual research projects and assist with projects of graduate students and faculty.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should have a background and interest in aquatic ecology and fisheries science and be enrolled in a biological degree program such as fisheries, zoology, natural resources, biology or allied fields. A valid driver’s license is required.  Successful applicants will demonstrate the ability to perform the essential functions of the job (required to be in the water for long periods of time) with or without accommodations. Applicants should have field experience working in aquatic habitats and be familiar with fisheries sampling methodology and equipment.  Applicant should be able to demonstrate abilities to work independently and as part of a team.

Salary

Minimum $15/hr depending on level of experience. Position will begin in early-April and continue through August 2026 with the possibility of extension through October. Selected applicant will be provided housing near the field site in Cheboygan County, MI for the duration of the field season. Necessary field equipment will be provided. Further information regarding the position can be obtained by contacting Douglas Larson at larso147@msu.edu.

Desired Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidate who have experience in field and experimental collection of fish biological data during different life history stages. Additional preference will be given to applicants with fish culture experience and experience using a microscope and with aquatic insect identification. Experience in database management and data analyses software is desirable. Experience in construction and maintenance of equipment is desirable.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Cover letter, CV, and names and contact information for references

Work Hours

Weather pending*

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/fw/