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, age, protected veteran status or other protected category.
Openings
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Assistant Aquarium Biologist Temporary, Part Time– Mammals and Reptiles
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Senior Research Scientist in either Shark or Manatee Biology, Behavior and Conservation
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Education Specialist II - Keys Camp Programs Summerland Key, FL
Staff Scientist/Program Manager, Ocean Technology Program
The Ocean Technology Program of Mote Marine Laboratory has an opening for a full-time, Staff Scientist/Program Manager. The successful candidate should have a PhD, DSc, or equivalent in oceanography, marine science or engineering with experience in instrumentation for the marine environment. Experience in interdisciplinary research, biogeochemical measurements and instrumentation, optics, autonomous instrument platforms, and/or ocean observing systems will be advantageous. The successful candidate must have a demonstrated capability to conceive, design and implement instrumentation or device intended for an application in their field of study. Hands-on experience with mechanical, electrical, optical or computer technology will be a rated metric in the selection process.
The successful candidate will manage an existing small engineering and ocean technology team and will be responsible for identifying additional personnel needs. The new program manager will interact with optical instrument developers, apply existing instrumentation on autonomous platforms (Webb gliders) and fixed stations, to research questions involving Harmful Algal Blooms under existing projects, lead the migration of existing instruments to additional generations and novel platforms, participate in regional and national activities supporting the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System, manage and enhance Mote’s existing Sarasota Operations – Coastal Ocean Observing System (SO-COOL) develop new instrumentation, and procure grants in support of his/her specific areas of interest.
The position also affords the opportunity for hosting of visiting scientists, interactions with scientists from multiple disciplines at Mote, oversight of student interns and volunteers, and to serve as Courtesy Faculty, teaching courses in the University of South Florida-Sarasota Manatee undergraduate degree program in partnership with Mote.
Mote is an independent, not-for-profit, 501 C(3) research and education institution. The hire will be at the Staff Scientist level with the opportunity to advance to Senior Scientist. As a Staff Scientist, the successful candidate is expected to report findings in significant peer reviewed professional publications and participate in professional organizations and meetings.
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file in pdf format including, 1) a cover letter, 2) full resume or CV with complete publications list (accepted, in press, and in review), 3) a statement of research interests, and 4) 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. Applications will be reviewed immediately and will close when filled, or on 4/20/20, whichever comes first. 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. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. The starting salary will be approximately $75,000 per year, commensurate with experience, with a generous benefits package.
Education Specialist II - Keys Camp Programs Summerland Key, FL
This position is located at Mote’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration in Summerland Key, Florida. This is a residential position and includes housing. This is a seasonal position from May 18th - August 7th. Male applicants strongly encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
The ESII for Keys Camp Programs will be supporting other Mote staff and interns to provide an outstanding learning environment during our residential camp experiences in the Florida Keys. The ESII for Keys Programs will be responsible for assisting, teaching, logistical arrangements, and maintaining safe conditions for campers. In addition, other responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Checking and preparing equipment for campers (includes snorkel gear, safety equipment, lab supplies, etc.)
Cleaning gear and equipment, storing after use
Assisting with set-up and clean-up before and after campers’ visit
Developing and leading programming for middle and high school age participants
Providing tour of property when campers arrive, outlining safety, privacy and security matters
Providing snorkel workshop and training for campers
Transporting students throughout the Keys
Lead & overseeing swim/ snorkel review and safety check
Assisting with meal preparation, coordination and reservations
Accompanying and interacting with campers on snorkel trips and other field excursions
Lifeguarding from shore stations and aboard boat as needed
Handle disciplinary behaviors of campers and communicate with parents
Maintain a safe, educational and positive environment for campers, staff, interns and any other associated people
Laboratory Category: Full-time, temporary (seasonal) without benefits
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or related field or equivalent experience
Experience in non-formal science education program development and delivery
Experience in residential education experiences
Experience demonstrating the ability to:
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Work long hours at outdoor locations in hot/cold weather, high humidity, intense sunlight and wet weather while responsible for students
Carry/move heavy objects
Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record and at least 5 years of driving experience
U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
First Aid, CPR, Lifeguard certifications
Advanced Open Water SCUBA certified; Rescue Diver Certification preferred (Rescue Diver Certification must be completed before camp start date). Experience snorkeling/SCUBA with students preferred.
Core Competencies and Characteristics
Our ideal candidate is an honest, caring, and professional individual with a strong work ethic and a contagious, positive energy. S/he is incredibly responsible, has a proactive approach, and is an enthusiastic educator who believes deeply in Mote and its mission.
Hiring Conditions
The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on successful completion of a background check.
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 April 3, 2020 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.
Postdoctoral Researcher in HAB Mitigation and Ecology
The HAB Mitigation and Ecology Research Program at Mote investigates marine and freshwater phytoplankton ecophysiology, with an emphasis on species involved in HABs in a changing 21st century ocean, HAB mitigation, and coastal water quality and eutrophication. A particular focus of the program are the causes, impacts and management of blooms of the Florida red tide dinoflagellate Karenia brevis. The successful candidate will join a diverse team of marine scientists on a large, multi-investigator project investigating the physical, chemical and biological factors underlying the expansion and termination of Karenia brevis blooms on the west Florida shelf.
This postdoctoral position requires experience in marine phytoplankton ecology, physiology and analytical chemistry, specifically with nutrient and toxin analyses. Experience with culturing HAB species, design and implementation of environmental sample collection and processing protocols, as well as a command of statistical analysis is highly desirable. The position requires the ability to conduct field work for extended periods of up to 2 weeks on both large and small research vessels in the Gulf of Mexico as well as conduct innovative, independent laboratory research. A record of peer reviewed manuscripts is a plus. The position also affords the opportunity for interactions with scientists from multiple disciplines at Mote and project collaborators at other research institutes, as well as oversight of field sampling, student interns and volunteers.
The position is expected to begin between November and December 2019, continuing for three years, with appropriate progress. The full-time position includes an annual salary of $50,000 with annual COL raises. Partially-subsidized health insurance is also provided, with family options available. Benefits include an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will also have an established Mote scientist assigned to serve as a dedicated mentor and will receive office/laboratory space.
Interested applicants should submit as a single electronic file, 1) a cover letter, 2) c.v. or 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.
Philanthropy Officer
Mote Marine Laboratory (Mote) is an independent marine research institution dedicated to the advancement of marine science through research, education and public outreach leading to new discoveries and the revitalization and sustainability of our oceans.
Under the general supervision of the Director of Development, the Philanthropy Officer at Mote Marine Laboratory will be responsible for securing significant revenue for Mote. S/he will be expected to develop dynamic fundraising strategies focused on engaging, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding an assigned portfolio of major donors as well as developing new prospects focused on leadership level giving for the organization. A skilled communicator with strong attention to detail, s/he will manage the full solicitation process from identification to the development of compelling oral and written proposals.
Bachelors degree or equivalent and at least three years of fundraising or similar experience required. 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 by February 14, 2020. 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. Select candidates will generate writing samples as part of the interview process. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Philanthropy Officer – Planned Gifts
Mote Marine Laboratory (Mote) is an independent marine research institution dedicated to the advancement of marine science through research, education and public outreach leading to new discoveries and the revitalization and sustainability of our oceans.
Under the general supervision of the Director of Development, the Philanthropy Officer – Planned Gifts at Mote Marine Laboratory will cultivate and solicit planned gifts from individual Mote donors, members and volunteers. S/he will also be expected to develop dynamic fundraising strategies focused on engaging, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding an assigned portfolio of major donors. A skilled communicator with strong attention to detail, s/he will manage the full solicitation process from identification to the development of compelling oral and written proposals.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum of five years in major gift or gift planning fundraising with successful cultivating and soliciting experience is preferred. Experienced candidates from the financial, estate and/or philanthropic planning, law, and trust administration fields are encouraged 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 to HumanResources@mote.org by February 14, 2020. 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. Select candidates will generate writing samples as part of the interview process. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Maintenance Manager
The Maintenance Manager is responsible for the safe maintenance and repair and improvement of the Mote Marine Laboratory Main Campus equipment and facilities.
General Duties:
The Maintenance Manager is responsible for the maintenance and repair of building and facility equipment as directed. Duties shall include supervision and performance of the construction of apparatus, laboratories and support facilities, piping system installation and repair, machinery and pump repair and improvement as needed. Will follow a preventive maintenance program for all equipment to minimize unscheduled downtime. Schedule project and maintenance work in cooperation with the Research Division and Departments to support research programs.
The Maintenance Manager is responsible for operation of the facility according to approved budgets and monthly review of the budget reports for the facility accounts.
The Maintenance Manager is responsible for safe operation of the department vehicle and mobile equipment. Major repairs and maintenance shall be coordinated with Fleet Coordinator. Responsible for understanding any potential hazards and special requirements for work tasks based on the relevant MSDS. The Maintenance Manager must follow safe work practices and procedures for all tasks. Work as required on Facilities projects to support Laboratory and Aquarium operations. Provide other support for Laboratory activities as required by the Director of Facilities.
Working Hours:
Normal hours are 8.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday through Friday, with one hour for lunch. Occasional longer daily hours may be required to complete specific tasks. The Maintenance Manager will be available after hours to support emergency situations.
Minimum Requirements:
Education: Minimum of High School or equivalent.
Immigration Status: Ability to work legally in the United States.
Valid Florida Driver’s License: Required.
Skills and Abilities: Safe vehicle operation
Mechanical knowledge and ability
Ability to safely lift 70 lbs
Good verbal communication skills
Able to safely work on ladders and elevated platforms.
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 February 21, 2020 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.
Facility Administrative Assistant
The Facility Administrative Assistant performs a variety of administrative and clerical duties in support of all Mote facilities.
General Duties:
Assist the Facilities Office Manager with MSDS files
Input crib charges, data entry and analysis of inventory items for correct cost allocation
Facilities records filing and cataloging for reliable records
Record, log and analyze work requests
Assists the Facilities Office Manager with special projects and in all matters as assigned.
Assist Facilities Office Manager with supervision of the janitorial and cleaning services.
Working Hours:
This is a full time position with hours generally from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday through Friday, one hour for lunch.
Minimum Requirements:
Education: Minimum of High School or equivalent.
Immigration Status: Ability to work legally in the United States.
Valid Florida Driver's License: Safe vehicle operation
Knowledge of Microsoft applications
Good verbal communication skills
Accurate data entry
Excellent telephone and organizational skills require
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 February 21, 2020 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.
Assistant Aquarium Biologist Temporary, Part Time– Mammals and Reptiles
An Assistant Aquarium Biologist Temporary – Mammals and Reptiles should have a proven interest in pursuing a career in animal husbandry in a public aquarium and will serve as an animal care specialist assisting in the overall health, care, training, and enrichment of the mammal and reptile collection. The animals under the care of this position include but are not limited to North American river otters, Florida manatees, and various species of crocodilians and sea turtles. In addition, an Assistant Aquarium Biologist may handle the supervision of trained interns and/or volunteers. He/she is expected to assist in exhibit and life support systems maintenance. An Assistant Aquarium Biologist is expected to assist maintaining all mammals and reptiles, noting unusual behavior and health, and reporting these observations to their supervisor. At a minimum, an Assistant Aquarium Biologist must have basic people handling skills and animal husbandry skills.
This position will require a willingness to work with and assist in capture and restraint procedures with potentially dangerous animals in the event it is necessary. This temporary position will require a tuberculosis test, but will not require rabies vaccination- which will result in limited interactions with Mote’s river otters.
General Duties
This position will serve to assist in all aspects of mammal and reptile care within the Aquarium. Animal maintenance tasks may include, but are not limited to; preparation of food (including medicated and special diets), cleaning of staff and animal areas, performing water quality tests and evaluation of these tests with corrective measures if necessary, exhibit maintenance and cleaning, conducting training sessions, and narrating public training sessions. Other tasks not directly related to animal care may include daily record keeping, maintenance of life support equipment, participation in the program development process, keeping work areas clean and equipment organized, and other duties as assigned.
Working Hours:
Normal working hours may vary for accommodating shifts between 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. with one hour for lunch, and work week will include weekends and holiday shifts.
Minimum Requirements:
Driver’s License
Valid Florida Driver’s License, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in a Science or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience:
Employment or internships at a zoo, aquarium, or related institution is required. Experience working with species in our Mammal and Reptile collection preferred. Candidate must have experience and knowledge of animal husbandry and positive reinforcement training techniques.
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
Possess time management and organizational skills
Adaptable and flexible in a changing work environment- growth mindset
Utilize independent judgment to address basic husbandry issues
Ability to navigate and utilize ZIMS for record keeping
Capable of working with PVC pipe, fittings, solvent cement, epoxy and resins
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Google.
Ability to recognize basic life support system issues
Working knowledge of animal husbandry, training and enrichment techniques and practices
Comfortable performing public narrations
Physical
Ability to work outside in hot/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 chlorine and other sanitizing chemicals
Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes every day
Ability to capture and restrain animals
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 February 21, 2020 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.
Senior Research Scientist in either Shark or Manatee Biology, Behavior and Conservation
Mote Marine Laboratory announces the availability of a Senior Research Scientist position concerning either elasmobranchs with an emphasis on sharks, or sirenians with an emphasis on manatees. Both positions would require candidates who are currently: 1) a senior scientist of international reputation and esteem, 2) a demonstrated leader in marine conservation, 3) an active participant in contemporary, professional scientific research with a strong history of successful grantsmanship and experience in managing research programs and staffs, and 4) a commitment to the public understanding of the biology, behavior, and conservation of sharks or manatees. This Senior Research Scientist position would be expect to secure and maintain significant external grant funding each year but would be provided a guaranteed Mote base of 100% annual salary and fringe benefits for the initial three years, followed by 75% guarantee for three years and an additional three year commitment at 50%.
SHARKS. Mote’s leadership in shark research traces continuously back to the Laboratory’s founding in 1955, as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory under Dr. Eugenie Clark. In 1991, the U.S. Congress named Mote as the site of the Center for Shark Research, the nation’s only such-designated research center for sharks and their relatives. Memoranda of Understanding between Mote and several organizations including NOAA help to guide the course of the Laboratory’s shark research. Mote’s Sharks and Rays Conservation Research Program, the unit under which current elasmobranch research is conducted, reflects a priority on studies that contribute to the conservation and rebuilding of depleted elasmobranch populations. This research spans laboratory- and field-based studies from southwest Florida to locations around the world. Facilities for conducting elasmobranch research at Mote include offices and laboratories, an extensive wet lab and animal care facility, and a fleet of research vessels.
This Senior Research Scientist position is expected to lead Mote’s elasmobranch research into the coming decades. It is anticipated that the successful candidate may qualify to receive the Perry W. Gilbert Chair in Shark Research, an endowed chair established in 2001, to support the work of a distinguished, internationally recognized shark biologist in residence at the Laboratory.
MANATEES. The study of wild manatees began at Mote Marine Laboratory in the 1980s with aerial surveys of the coastal waters of Manatee and Sarasota counties. The Manatee Research Program (MRP) was formally founded in 1993, and with the addition of Dr. John Reynolds, III, (Nov. 8, 1952 - Dec. 23, 2017) as program manager in 2000, the MRP grew to become a cornerstone of scientific understanding and protection of these unique mammals in Florida and the Caribbean. The Manatee Research Program continues at Mote, and Reynolds' legacy continues to benefit marine science, conservation, and education around the globe.
The MRP conducts year-round studies of manatee behavioral ecology, distribution, habitat use, genetics, and population status in Florida. The MRP also advises manatee conservation and research actions throughout Florida and the wider Caribbean, and further advises conservation projects for sirenians (manatees and dugongs) globally. Mote’s MRP is one of three organizations (along with U.S. Geological Survey’s Sirenia Project and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) participating via formal Memoranda of Understanding in organizing and maintaining the statewide Manatee Individual Photo-identification System (MIPS) database. Long term aerial and photo-identification surveys throughout the year have proven valuable to coastal community efforts to manage manatees in order to balance human activities with the sustainability of manatees and their habitat. MRP research at Mote is ongoing and also involves collaborators including corresponding and visiting faculty and graduate students, agency and NGO investigators, postdoctoral associates, interns, and volunteers.
A complete application will be a single pdf file containing:
1. Cover Letter addressed to Dr. Michael P. Crosby, Ph.D., FLS, President & CEO; to include confidentiality terms and availability timeline.
2. Curriculum vitae including links to representative publications.
3. Narrative account of experience and accomplishments.
4. Thought piece on your vision for Mote’s future growth and leadership in shark or manatee research.
5. Other Considerations.
6. Names, titles, and contact information (telephone; email) of three references.
Qualified, interested applicants are required to send a complete application to Mote’s Human Resources Office at HumanResources@mote.org with the subject line: “Senior Scientist Application/ Sharks” or “Senior Scientist Application/ Manatees.” 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.
Other media essential to your application may be submitted. The application period will remain open until filled. 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. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. Questions regarding the application process may be directed to Ernest D. Estevez, Ph.D., Senior Scientist Emeritus and Search Committee Chair, at estevez@mote.org.
