Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category.

Openings

2019-2020 POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS

Mote Marine Laboratory announces two new two-year positions beginning sometime between October 2018 and January 2019, to support independent investigators based in Sarasota, Florida USA. Applications are invited from recent (since December 2015) Ph.D. graduates, including those with firm expectation of graduation by December 2018. However, at time of appointment, a doctoral degree must have been awarded. Proposals for any field of marine research are invited; the following fields are especially encouraged:

Marine Ecotoxicology: Source, fate and effects of toxic chemicals in the coastal marine environment, including analysis of harmful algal toxins, pesticides and other endocrine disrupting compounds, focusing on synergistic effects from exposure to multiple stressors, and identifying biomarkers of sublethal effects manifested in subsequent generations.

Sirenian biology and conservation: Anatomy, morphology and physiology, reproduction and mating strategies, sensory biology, cognition and behavior, behavioral ecology, habitat use, spatial ecology, and genetics of Florida manatees.

Competitive applications will focus on research programs that are relevant to conservation and sustainable uses of marine biodiversity, healthy habitats, and natural resources; will bring or propose new multi-investigator/institutional collaborations to Mote, and will be cognizant of global issues. A salary of $49,000 and funding for research start-up and expenses are provided. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2018 and finalists will be announced in October. Go here for program details and application instructions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote is an E-Verify employer.

Veterinarian

The Veterinarian must have a demonstrated background in aquatic animal veterinary medicine.  The Veterinarian serves as the lead veterinary care provider for all animals within Mote Aquarium and Rehabilitation Hospital.  These animals include but are not limited to elasmobranchs, teleosts, aquatic invertebrates, manatees, river otters, turtles (marine and freshwater), crocodilians, and amphibians.   If the Veterinarian does not currently meet the requirements set forth by NMFS and FWC to provide primary veterinary care for sirenean, cetacean, and/or sea turtles, then the Veterinarian will be mentored in those areas under a qualified regional contract veterinarian until those criteria are met. The Veterinarian will work closely with the Aquarium’s Curatorial team and the Hospitals’ Rehabilitation and Medical Care Coordinator, who oversee the operations of their respective areas.  The Veterinarian’s primary responsibility is to provide exceptional clinical care to Mote’s resident and rehabilitation animals.  Secondary to that, the Veterinarian will be encouraged to engage in conservation and/or research activities. 

General Duties:

On a daily basis, assist in all aspects of clinical veterinary care and rehabilitation within the Aquarium and Rehabilitation Hospital.  Work closely with the husbandry staff to provide and maintain a complete veterinary care program in line with the modern zoological practices outlined by the AZA and AVMA standards.  The Veterinarian will be responsible for the management of all aspects of the health of Mote’s animal collection including, but not limited to, preventative medicine, diagnosis and treatment of disease, surgical care, and nutrition.   Establish effective testing procedures during quarantine for all animal acquisitions to ensure the health of collection and compliance with government regulations.  Monitor and analyze current husbandry practices as they relate to disease prevention and develop collaborative solutions with husbandry staff.  Maintain all necessary medical records (using ZIMS), review nutritional records for collection animals and make dietary recommendations.  Evaluate health and safety implications of proposed or existing behavioral enrichment programs.  The Veterinarian will be responsible for use, disposal, and record keeping of controlled substances related to veterinary care.  Perform necropsies of collection/display animals to establish the causes of death and make recommendations regarding the living collection.  Ensure appropriate and timely pre-shipment testing for animal acquisitions and dispositions.  Other tasks not directly related to veterinary care may include participation in the program development process, keeping work areas clean and equipment organized, consulting and educating animal staff and management in areas of health and husbandry, work with human medical experts in educating staff and volunteers concerning zoonotic diseases, writing and implementing Standard Operating Protocols, and other duties as assigned in collaboration with program managers.  This position will offer the ability to participate in professional development conferences, seminars, workshops, etc. which could involve travel to out-of-town locations.     This position may also have the opportunity to work with animals being maintained at various Mote campuses for aquaculture, stock enhancement, conservation, and scientific research.  However, these duties would fall subsequent to providing clinical care to the animals within the Aquarium and Rehabilitation Hospital.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Licenses and Certifications
  • Valid Florida Driver’s License, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire
  • Rescue SCUBA Diver certification or the ability to obtain in 12 months
  • First Aid and CPR Certified or the ability to obtain them in 30 days
  • Current rabies immunization or ability to obtain within 1 month of hire
  • Florida veterinary license or ability to obtain within 3 months of starting
  • Valid DEA License for controlled drugs

Education:

Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (aquatic animal focus prefered)

Experience:

Minimum of 3 years’ working as an aquatic animal veterinarian at an AZA-certified facility or a full-time residency as an aquatic animal veterinarian at an AZA-certified facility plus a year working independently in such a position. Preference given to those that have at least 2 years experience at authorized education, rehabilitation, or research facility caring for sick and injured sea turtles and manatees.

Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume or c.v, and 3) the names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org.  Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. 

Aquarium Biologist (Part-time)- Florida Keys

An Aquarium Biologist at the Florida Keys History Discovery Center (part-time) should have an interest in pursuing a career in animal husbandry.  An Aquarium Biologist serves as an animal care taker responsible for the health, appearance, maintenance and cleanliness of aquariums and their animals. Working under current husbandry staff, an Aquarium Biologist helps in maintaining the living collections of the Florida Keys History Discovery Center located in Islamorada, FL.  This classification requires a practical knowledge of animal behavior through education or commensurate experience.  An Aquarium Biologist at the Florida Keys History Discovery Center is expected to be able to maintain all animals under his or her care, noting unusual behavior and health, and reporting these observations to their supervisor. In addition to animal care an Aquarium Biologist will possess the ability to trouble-shoot life support system problems. An Aquarium Biologist at the Florida Keys History Discovery Center may be required to interact with the public while performing aquarium maintenance. This position also requires excellent time management skills, and the ability to work and make decisions independently without direct supervision.

General Duties: 

Animal maintenance tasks may include, but are not limited to, preparation of food (including medicated and special diets), performing water quality tests, collection of specimens, conducting regular SCUBA assisted diving for exhibit cleaning, preparation of chemicals, mixing synthetic seawater, cleaning of filters and aquarium viewing surfaces, cleaning of food preparation room, performing water changes, and gravel vacuuming.  This position will be responsible for the husbandry of a variety of animals including but not limited to include fish, invertebrates, and reptiles.  Other tasks not directly related to animal care may include but are not limited to daily record keeping, maintenance of life support equipment, set up and breakdown of exhibit aquariums, participation in the exhibit development process, and keeping work areas clean and equipment organized.  This position may require participation in continuing education which would involve travel to out of town locations.

Working Hours: 

Normal working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with one hour for lunch and will include weekend and holiday shifts. Expected schedule for this position includes 4 – 3 hour days a week (12 hours total). Occasional longer daily hours or evening hours may be required to complete specific tasks. 

Minimum Requirements:

Licenses and Certifications- Valid Florida Driver’s License or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire

Education- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience – Employment, internship, or a substantial amount of volunteer hours in a public aquarium, zoo or related institution is required. 

Skills –

  • Perform routine tasks accurately and efficiently
  • Able to work well with others and be a team player
  • Communicate clearly both verbally and in writing
  • Ability to administer CPR, First Aid and DAN O2
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Access
  • Basic knowledge of aquarium biological processes          
  • Basic knowledge of aquarium fish husbandry and health
  • Ability to navigate and utilize ZIMS for record keeping
  • Possess time management and organizational skills
  • Ability to recognize basic life support system issues
  • Capable of working with PVC pipe, fittings, solvent cement, epoxy and resins

Physical –

  • Precise hand-eye coordination is required for the gentle capture and handling of animals from aquatic environments
  • Ability to climb and work on ladders
  • Ability to work outside in hot and humid Florida weather conditions
  • Ability to spend the majority of the workday walking, standing, bending and lifting.
  • Capable of climbing and working from ladders
  • Tolerance to work around noisy machinery & equipment
  • Ability to work in confined spaces
  • Tolerance for the smell of fish and animal feces
  • Ability to lift and carry 60 lbs
  • Ability to lift 25lbs overhead
  • Capable of working around bleach and other sanitizing chemicals
  • Strength to lift a net holding 10 lbs. with one hand
  • Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes regularly
  • Visual acuity is required including the ability to distinguish color variations

Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org.  Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. 

Office and Housing Administrative Coordinator (Florida Keys)

The Office and Housing Administrative Coordinator for the Mote Marine Laboratory’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration (IC2R3) is located in Summerland Key, FL. This position is primarily operational.

Responsibilities include supporting the Florida Keys Community Relations and Administrative Manager (Administrative Manager) in the day to day administrative duties necessary to keep the IC2R3 organized and meeting deadlines. As Office and Housing Coordinator, the position will be responsible for the efficient running of the dormitory section of the facility in conjunction with the IC2R3 Administrative Manager.

This position requires initiative, flexibility, and the ability to juggle a variety of projects at once.    This position reports directly to the Administrative Manager.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

  • Business management of an office and housing facilities including guest housing and lab reservations, guest check-in and out procedures, and billing.
  • Handle all office paperwork including purchase orders, petty cash, store receipts, budget reports, and purchasing receipts.
  • Day to day administrative duties, including answering and returning phone calls, departmental record keeping as well as written/email communications, copying, ordering of supplies, etc.
  • Help organize and setup meetings, conferences, workshops and special events, occasionally traveling to assist in meetings and events.
  • Conduct tours of the facility.
  • Coordination of local/onsite events, as well as help organize and setup meetings, conferences, and workshops occasionally traveling to assist in meetings and events.
  • Oversee the cleaning staff with regards to housing.

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements:

  • Computer competency and experience using Word, Excel, and other accounting software as required. Comfortable with downloading, networking, scanning, copying, faxing, etc.
  • Ability to interact with many different staff and clients.
  • Good skills dealing with the public and comfortable being the receptionist voice of the main phone line and the first hand personable office reception to the public.
  • BS or BA or equivalent experience

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Capable of working independently without supervision, prioritizing workload and multi-tasking
Capable of working well under remote field-station conditions
Capable of scheduling and managing housing, research and educational usages

Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references to HumanResources@mote.org.  Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.  

Staff Chemist- Ocean Acidification

The Ocean Acidification Program at Mote Marine Laboratory seeks a staff chemist with a minimum 2 years experience with experimental seawater ocean acidification facilities including carbonate chemistry experience. This position will be located in Summerland Key, Florida at the Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Restoration and Research (IC2R3). General duties to be performed include working with research-focused outdoor raceways and the OAFTERU (Ocean Acidification Flow Thru Experimental Raceway Units) at IC2R3. This includes maintaining the water system, sample collection, measuring total alkalinity, dissolved inorganic carbon, spectrophotometric pH, and other water quality parameters. Tasks also include maintaining the dry ocean acidification (OA) laboratory, maintaining the dry chemistry laboratory, keeping track of and ordering all supplies and materials, keeping all OA-related work organized, data entry, and some field work.  This position has the possibility for proposal and publication writing.  The staff chemist will also be responsible for managing and mentoring student interns year round. This position might require longer days and weekend work.  Travel to the main lab in Sarasota, Florida is possible.  Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. and must be able to work in a hot/outdoor environment. Open water SCUBA required, AAUS SCUBA preferred. Expected start date is November 1, 2018

Requirements:

  • B.S required, M.S preferred. Preferably with a chemistry or ocean acidification background.
  • Knowledge of coral reef ecosystems
  • Familiar with organism life support for ocean acidification testing
  • Familiar with standard computer software, data handling applications such as R and database management
  • U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work is required

Special Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of ocean acidification, CO2Sys or CO2Calc, and monitoring equipment 
  • Previous laboratory and experimental systems experience, especially with carbonate chemistry instruments
  • Familiar with marine organism experimental testing equipment (pH monitoring probes, temperature probes, tanks, pumps, filters, heaters, etc.)
  • Strong troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to work autonomously
  • Very organized with great attention to detail
  • Willing to work with groups from other institutions
  • Ability to move, live and work in a remote location (Florida Keys)
  • Open water SCUBA required, AAUS Scuba preferred
  • Boat handling skills, US Coast Guard OUPV/Six-pack Captain's License preferred

To Apply:
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm October 5, 2018 to HumanResources@mote.org.  Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.  

 

Marine Science Educator II

Note: Mote Marine Laboratory’s Education Division is currently seeking highly motivated and enthusiastic candidates to fill two Marine Science Educator II positions in our School and Public Programs. Mote's School Programs focus on visiting school group tours and programs, homeschool days, school outreaches, local school events and teacher professional development programs. Mote's Public Programs focus on special tours, guided nature & kayak tours, birthday parties, scout programs, overnight programs, camps, early childhood programs and community outreach events.  Each position will have different focus areas with overlapping responsibilities. Educators will collaborate within the Division and work together to support Mote's mission.  

Description

Assist with coordination and teach both on-site and outreach programs at Mote Marine Laboratory or within the community. The Marine Science Educator II works closely with staff, volunteers, and interns in the Education Department and throughout the Lab and Aquarium to ensure that our mission and the needs of the audiences are being met.   

Expectations

  • Implement high energy, developmentally appropriate and non-discriminatory experiences, aligned with Mote’s mission (and standards as applicable).
  • Provide an enhanced participant experience through positive interactions and engaging activities
  • Create a safe, inclusive, and rewarding program for every participant
  • Implement an effective educational experience that is based on Mote’s research and local marine environments, enhances ocean literacy and incorporates consistent conservation messages.
  • Possess knowledge of Mote’s policies, safety procedures and animal safety protocols  
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of Mote’s research, local marine habitats, and best practices in informal science education.
  • Consistently demonstrate a positive and welcoming demeanor in interactions with guests, participants, staff, interns and volunteers.

General Duties

  • Assist with program logistic arrangements, scheduling, materials procurement, curriculum development and updates, and any other duties to ensure successful programs
  • Implement engaging hands-on educational activities
  • Prepare and teach on-site classroom/lab/field programs, outreach programs, programs based at Mote field stations around Florida, evening events, and other education programs
  • Provide high quality group management to groups of participants of varying ages
  • Provide direction to Marine Science Educatory I staff, interns and volunteers
  • Prepare, organize and maintain educational resources
  • Provide outstanding customer service to our guests
  • Other duties as assigned by a Senior Coordinator or the Assistant Vice President of Education

Working Hours

Full time MSE IIs will typically operate normal hours up to 40 hours per week. Part time MSE IIs will operate based on their schedule availability. Schedules will vary and may include evening, weekend, and holiday hours.

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or related field or equivalent experience
  • At least two years teaching experience in either a formal or informal education facility preferred
  • Reliable transportation and the ability to arrive at (off-site) locations at designated times
  • U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
  • Certifications required: CPR/First Aid, Lifeguarding, Insect Sting Emergency Treatment Certification
  • Certifications preferred: SCUBA open water/beginner level
  • Excellent verbal/written communication skills
  • Stamina for working occasional long hours at outdoor locations in hot/cold weather, high humidity, intense sunlight, and wet weather while responsible for youth and adult participants
  • Not excessively prone to motion/sea sickness
  • Ability to carry/move heavy objects up to 40 lbs.

Hiring Conditions

The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check.

Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information for three references, before 5pm October 15, 2018 to HumanResources@mote.org.  Alternatively, a single package of all requested elements may be submitted to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. 

Sea Turtle Nesting

Mote Marine Laboratory, recently began its 35th year monitoring sea turtle nesting along 35 miles of local beaches.

The Humans of Mote

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