Research Technician

William & Mary is seeking a full-time Research Technician to support marine and coastal science research at VIMS in Gloucester, VA. Responsibilities include specimen collection, lab equipment operation, fieldwork preparation, and data management. Technicians will work independently or in teams, often under adverse conditions at sea. The position requires physical stamina for long hours and the ability to lift heavy loads. Overtime may be required during field operations.
Position Information

Position Number

00058V

Position Title

Research Technician

Employment Category

Full Time Operational

Location

VIMS – Gloucester

Department

1N1100 Natural Resources

Unit Mission Statement

The mission of VIMS is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service. VIMS’ strategic sections are committed to the development of resilient systems through a focus on three grand challenges, ensuring science for stewardship of Natural Resources providing translational science for sustainable management of coastal socio-ecological systems, especially fisheries and aquaculture.

Position Summary

Research Technicians perform a variety of routine, technical, and administrative responsibilities in support of research at the institute. They perform duties such as the following: collecting specimens, preparing materials, and operate specialized lab equipment.

Assist in preparation for field work and participate in field activities. Under supervision, Research Technicians provide administrative research support such as data integrity and collection of data resources.

They may work independently or as a member of a team. They work under general supervision, resolving most standard issues independently and referring complex issues to an upper-level manager. Technicians typically report to a program manager or director or may report to a senior level researcher.

Responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):
• Inventories necessary supplies and equipment for research cruises. Transports, stowage, and configures all survey materials to the chartered fishing vessel.
• Assists with the implementation of all necessary catch processing procedures at sea, including proper use of all the catch processing equipment and troubleshooting of that equipment.
• Assists with the execution of all ancillary data collection protocols (net monitoring, tow tracks, site identification, and atmospheric and hydrographic monitoring).
• Conducts laboratory processing of fisheries-related samples, such as hard parts for aging and fish stomachs for diet determination.
• Participates in the other MRG field surveys as needed.

Conditions of Employment
• This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. and University policy.
• This position is subject to overtime during fieldwork operations including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required. A typical work day at sea lasts 12 to 16 hours, beginning just before sunrise and extending after dusk.
• Ability to successfully perform duties, often under adverse conditions (heavy seas, high winds, precipitation), for multiple weeks at a time, with the ability to resist motion sickness or at the minimum “work-through” bouts of motion sickness.
• Ability to lift 40-60lb baskets of fish repeatedly over a 12 to 16-hour work day on a moving vessel.
• Ability to work on a commercial trawling vessel chartered for scientific research and stay on board the vessel (overnight) for multiple weeks at a time.
• Ability to pass the VIMS at-sea survival training exercise upon employment.
• Restricted position subject to availability of funding.

Essential Designation

No

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Position Restricted?

Yes, the appointment is limited due to funding availability

Position Term

12 month – Restricted

Position Months

Faculty or Staff: 12 month

Required Qualifications
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Some knowledge of basic lab safety
• Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines under direct supervision
• Ability to follow written and oral directions.
• Ability to maintain records, record data legibly, and conduct data entry with a high degree of accuracy
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in outdoor environment.
• Ability to travel, as needed
• Experience performing aquatic field sampling and data collection using standard fishery techniques in the field as well as the laboratory.

Preferred Qualifications
• Demonstrated knowledge of sanitation techniques and laboratory & field work safety.
• Demonstrated knowledge of research and testing procedures and techniques.
• Ability to prepare samples and perform standard or routine lab testing.
• Demonstrated skills in operating and maintaining tools and equipment.
• Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines or under minimal supervision
• Attention to detail in collection and entry of data
• Ability to maintain records and record test results to a high degree of accuracy
• Proficiency in a variety of software applications to include MS office with the ability to record data.
• Ability to successfully complete tasks in outdoor environment, as applicable
• Knowledge of the fauna of the Mid-Atlantic Bight, Southern New England, and the Chesapeake Bay, particularly with respect to their identification and biology.
• Experience with electronics and in particular automated catch data equipment including Scantrol measuring boards, Marel motion-compensated balances, FEED software, and rugged computer equipment.

Is the position remote work eligible?

Not eligible

Remote Work Disclaimer

Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

Advertised Pay Range

Up to $34,500

Advertised Pay Range Statement

All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.

University Salary Range

U04

Benefits Summary Statement

William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none

Job Open Date

03/19/2025

Review Begin Date

Job Close Date

04/03/2025

Open Until Filled

No

Special Application Instructions

Background Check Statement

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.