Aquaculture Biologist II - Oysters

Job Summary

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. Primary duties involve performing advanced aquaculture operations, supporting applied research, and supervises lower-level staff in oyster hatchery, nursery, and grow-out systems. Responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, troubleshooting system performance, supervising lower-level staff and interns, guiding experimental design and implementation, and contributing to data analysis and reporting. This position operates with limited supervision and contributes scientific input for operational improvements and project planning. This position is affiliated with the Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs, MS, which is part of the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) at the Cedar Point campus of the University of Southern Mississippi.

Primary Duties and 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.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Option A:

• 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.

Option B:

• A master's degree in a related field with a minimum of three (3) years of experience.

Additional requirements:

• Demonstrated experience in planning and performing advanced aquaculture tasks, troubleshooting systems, and supervising staff.
• Experience with experimental design, data collection, and analysis is also necessary to fulfill the job's research responsibilities.
• Valid Driver's License required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• 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.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.