Coral Propagation and Culture Technician - Level I (MDBC / Deep Sea Coral Laboratory)

Job Description

Job Description

*US Citizenship Required

*Position is Subject to Contract Award

Location: NOAA Galveston Laboratory, Galveston, TX

Client Organization: NOAA Fisheries – SEFSC, Population & Ecosystems Monitoring Division

Overview

Support daily operations of the NOAA Galveston Deep Sea Coral Laboratory, assisting with coral culture system maintenance, animal husbandry, and basic data management. Animal care responsibilities require availability 365 days per year. Facility hours are 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; work shall not exceed 40 hours per week.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in maintaining recirculating coral culture systems; monitor water quality and report facility malfunctions to senior staff.
• Assist with routine care of live coral specimens (tank setup, cleaning, ESA coral species recovery).
• Culture live foods (Artemia, rotifers, algae) and feed corals.
• Record and report water quality and coral health data; coordinate with staff and veterinarians regarding animal care.
• Perform required safety training (lab safety, chemical hygiene, PPE, NOAA IT security, AED, and others).
• Perform computer data entry and review using MDBC applications; update tracking sheets and project management tools.
• Participate in public outreach and education events (open houses, career fairs, teacher workshops).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in marine sciences or related biology field with at least 2 years of experience maintaining coral culture systems; saltwater aquaria experience desired.
• Knowledge of water quality, aquaculture/mariculture, and animal husbandry concepts; ability to independently perform scientific tasks using established methods.
• Knowledge of basic plumbing, carpentry, and facility maintenance.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions; capacity to learn sea turtle husbandry and recognize animal behaviors.
• College-level writing and oral/written presentation skills.
• Valid U.S. driver's license.
• Ability to lift 50 lb sacks of salt and work in environments maintained at or near 40&degree;F.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of marine life, preferably corals.
• Knowledge of water quality and animal husbandry.