Urban Freshwater Research Technician (Part-Time/Temp)

at  Shedd Aquarium

TITLE: Urban Freshwater Research Technician (Part-Time/Temp)
DEPARTMENT: Conservation Research
REPORTS TO: Research Biologist
STATUS: Part-Time,Temporary, Non-Exempt
PAY RATE: $20.00/hr.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Work within Shedd’s Urban Freshwaters program focusing on understanding the biodiversity and ecology of the Chicago River ecosystem. We are studying species diversity and ecological attributes for their distribution along with how sewer overflows, poor water quality events, or restoration activities can interact to affect these communities. We are looking for two technicians to complete a combination of field and laboratory work within the scope of several larger research projects and needs in 2025. It is expected that the technicians develop and execute an independent research project within the scope of the larger program and supervised by the lead Biologist, which will be presented to a general internal audience upon completion of the role.
The technicians support Urban Freshwater’s program primarily by assisting in field work necessary to map changes in water quality, algae blooms, submerged habitat, and the locations of invertebrates, turtles, birds, and fish. Field work primarily includes weekly visual surveys via kayak, and from mid-June through July, weekly nighttime larval fish sampling via boat. Fieldwork is focused on the South Branch of the Chicago River, with Park 571 being the primary access site. Throughout the summer season, the technicians will help deploy and retrieve passive macroinvertebrate samplers and decomposition monitoring materials. Maintenance of field equipment including instrument calibration is also required. Lab work will consist of using a microscope to isolate macroinvertebrates (including zooplankton) and larval fishes and using taxonomic keys to identify taxa. Genetic analysis (i.e., sanger sequencing) may be carried out to identify organisms when visual means prove inadequate. Computer work will consist of digitizing and mapping data collected during visual encounter kayak surveys. There may be opportunities to join other research events such as fieldwork to assess mussel populations, fish tagging and tracking events, restoration plantings, and others as they become available.

EDUCATION:

• Have at least a high school diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE:

• Comfortable working safely outside from small floating vessels or in and around waterbodies for long periods during various weather conditions including nighttime
• Keen observational skills to spot and identify elusive, small, or fast Chicagoland fauna, including reptiles and birds
• Comfortable working with microscopes for extended periods to sort and count samples
• Able to walk safely along riverbanks and uneven terrain in low-light conditions
• Familiarity with equipment calibration techniques
• Enthusiasm and critical thinking skills to take ownership of a research project
• Able to transport self to and from fieldwork sites along the South Branch of the Chicago River 

BENEFITS WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.

• Accrued Paid Time Off
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program
• Employee discounts
• Employee Tickets

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission, and values.
• Assist in safely collecting detailed notes and data on local fauna via kayaks and boats.
• Assess in collecting water quality data through handheld devices by calibrating devices routinely.
• Assist in the deployment and retrieval of macroinvertebrate samplers within the Chicago Area Waterways from boats.
• Isolate, enumerate, and identify zooplankton, macroinvertebrates, and larval fish using a dissecting microscope.
• Assist with equipment loading, unloading, and calibrating.
• Develop and complete a research project under the guidance of Shedd Research experts.
• Other duties as assigned