Seeking a temporary, full-time (up to 40 hrs./wk.) aquatic field technician for the Spring-Fall 2025 field season. Duties for this position will be primarily focused on collecting freshwater fish and mussel data in Georgia Piedmont and Coastal Plain watersheds but may also include surveys for other rare aquatic species throughout the state. The position will be based out of the GA DNR Wildlife Resources Conservation Center in Social Circle, Georgia*. Data collection will include visual and tactile searches for freshwater mussels using snorkel, hookah, and SCUBA equipment as well as fish data collection using boat/backpack electrofishing, seining, fyke netting and other sampling methods as needed. Additional duties will include equipment cleaning and maintenance, data entry and QC, and reference collection upkeep.

Required skills:

• Two-year degree in ecology, natural resources, or a related field -OR- two years’ experience in a technician role or similar employment.
• Willingness to work in challenging conditions including heat, cold, rain, turbid water, biting insects, venomous snakes, and alligators.
• Availability for multi-day overnight travel Monday-Friday and a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. short distances.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word).
• SCUBA Open Water (or higher) certification and willingness to participate in low visibility diving operations preferred.

Term of employment is up to 6 months after expected start date in April 2025. Rate of pay is $14.00/hr. *Free on-site housing may be available if desired.