Sr Biological Scientist

Dept: Florida Institute of Oceanography – Keys Marine Laboratory, Layton, FL

About the role

The Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO), an institute of the University of South Florida, connects Florida’s academic, public, and private partners to the marine environment through oceanographic research, education, workforce development, and applied maritime operations. As a regional marine science and technology resource, FIO provides access to research vessels, specialized marine equipment, field operations expertise, and the Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) to support discovery, student learning, environmental stewardship, and solutions to complex coastal and ocean challenges.

This position serves as the Manager of the Florida Institute of Oceanography – Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) seawater systems, operating and managing the KML seawater infrastructure while also captaining vessels and acting as lead science diver. The role requires in-depth knowledge of scientific sampling in the coastal marine environment and is based at the KML in Layton, FL.

Responsibilities

• Seawater Systems Management (50%)
  • Ensure KML user needs for seawater systems are met and water quality is adequate, including pH, salinity, oxygen, nutrients, and non-nutrient chemicals.
  • Manage multiple large-scale aquaria and animal care facilities to meet IACUC standards.
  • Oversee scheduling, maintenance, repairs, and calibration of all KML seawater systems; order supplies and track inventories.
  • Demonstrate mechanical and practical knowledge of pumps, UV sterilizers, filtration, plumbing, electrical, water flow, and basic construction.
  • Provide vision and plans for future seawater system development to KML and FIO leadership.
  • Build or modify tank layouts, equipment, and running seawater systems for science support.
  • Manage supply budgets, purchasing card spending, and associated paperwork.
  • Oversee multiple, concurrent grant reports and execute deliverables.
  • Be on call after hours and over weekends to respond to seawater system emergencies, user questions, and troubleshooting.
  • Manage all water quality data for four independent seawater systems.
• Laboratory and Field Support (15%)
  • Use and maintain instruments appropriate to research, requiring extensive training and both theoretical and practical knowledge.
  • Prepare and assist with field techniques to collect, analyze, and maintain logs and records of laboratory techniques, observations, findings, and results.
  • Serve as part of a data-gathering team, including navigating shallow near-shore waters to remote sites for data collection.
  • Recommend and select sampling sites in consultation with PIs and faculty to optimize research and education experiences.
  • Utilize appropriate scientific sampling protocols to ensure sample integrity.
  • Oversee maintenance and programming of laboratory equipment, arrange repairs, and manage laboratory supply inventories.
• Vessel Operations and Diving (30%)
  • Pilot and navigate KML vessels, sometimes as sole operator, through coastal waters of the Florida Keys.
  • Inspect vessels for readiness, prepare gear, plan routes, and submit float plans prior to departure.
  • Ensure proper maintenance and use of survival equipment.
  • Supervise the work of scientists, undergraduates, and graduate students to ensure safety during field work.
  • Make decisions regarding mission aborts, cancellations, or postponements due to weather or other safety reasons.
  • Serve as lead science diver; SCUBA certification required with a minimum of 50 open water dives (Advanced and Rescue Diver certifications, AAUS status preferred). Must attain AAU scientific diver status within 2 months.
• Additional Duties (5%)
  • Train laboratory staff and researchers on seawater system use and maintenance.
  • Tow small trailers (under 30’ length) and assist with maintenance of KML facility infrastructure, vessels, and diving equipment.
  • Perform specimen collections and shipping for researchers upon request.
  • Develop and assist with outreach programs (e.g., Science Night, Open House).
  • Represent FIO and KML at conferences and workshops.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a natural or medical science and 2 years of research experience and field work; or a Master’s degree in a natural science. Progressively responsible experience may substitute for the Bachelor’s degree.
• Valid Florida driver’s license.
• SCUBA certification (Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, or AAUS preferred).
• Sufficient boat handling skills to safely operate small vessels up to 30’ length in marine coastal waters.
• Ability to attain AAUS scientific diver status within 2 months.
• Must pass a Level 1 criminal background check and drug screen.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with collecting oceanographic specimens and interpreting data.

Pay

$58,250 to $68,000 per year, commensurate with experience.

Application Materials

Please provide the following when applying:

• Curriculum vitae / resume
• A copy of academic transcripts
• Contact information for three professional references (one must be your current/most recent supervisor)

The selected candidate must have current work authorization in the United States. This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.