Aquaculture Biologist II - Oysters

Special Instructions to Applicants Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). 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.