Aquaculture Biologist II - Oysters

Location: Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, 703 East Beach Drive, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564, United States

Employment Status: Full Time

Salary Range: $39,815.68 - $53,869.00

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship.

About the Role

This is a mid-level professional and technical scientific position focused on advanced marine aquaculture operations and applied research. The incumbent independently performs hatchery, nursery, and grow-out activities with a focus on oyster production and supports ongoing research initiatives. This position operates with limited supervision and contributes scientific input for operational improvements and project planning. The role is affiliated with the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs, MS, part of the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) at the Cedar Point campus of the University of Southern Mississippi.

Responsibilities

• Perform and assist in planning advanced aquaculture tasks related to oyster hatchery, nursery, and grow-out systems to support production and research goals.
• Oversee daily aquaculture operations, ensuring proper system function, animal health, and culture conditions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to system performance, water quality, and equipment functionality.
• Supervise and train lower-level staff, interns, and students in aquaculture procedures and safety protocols.
• Contribute to experimental design, implementation, data collection, and analysis in support of applied research projects.
• Coordinate with faculty, partners, and program staff to support project planning, scheduling, and logistics for aquaculture operations and research activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Aquaculture, Marine Science, Biology, or a related field with at least four (4) years of professional experience in aquaculture is required. Alternatively, a master's degree in a related field with a minimum of three (3) years of experience is acceptable.
• Demonstrated experience in planning and performing advanced aquaculture tasks, troubleshooting systems, and supervising staff.
• Experience with experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
• Valid Driver’s License required.

Skills

• Strong understanding of aquaculture systems, animal husbandry, and water quality management, with the ability to troubleshoot system issues and identify corrective measures to maintain optimal culture conditions.
• Experience in research support, including data collection, documentation, and reporting.
• Demonstrated leadership and training skills with the ability to supervise and mentor junior staff.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and collaboration.
• Effective organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple production objectives and research projects.
• Physical ability to repeatedly lift and carry loads over 30 pounds and perform field and hatchery work in variable conditions.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.